Resident Doctor Strike from 17 December to 22 December
The British Medical Association (BMA) has announced resident doctors will strike between 7am on Wednesday 17 December and 7am on Monday 22 December.
We want to apologise to our patients and service users for the disruption to their care. On behalf of staff and patients, we want the industrial disputes resolved as soon as possible, but pay in the NHS is a matter for the Government and trade unions.
Why this period will be especially challenging
This strike comes at an already incredibly busy time of year. Seasonal pressures and a sharp rise in respiratory infections, including flu, mean our services are under significant strain. Please help us keep emergency care available for those who need it.
Prioritising patients most in need
Patient safety is our number one priority. We are working hard to maintain all essential services, including urgent and emergency care and maternity care. Unfortunately, those in less urgent need of care may experience longer waiting times than normal.
How you can help
Our Emergency Department will be extremely busy. Here’s how you can support us:
Care for vulnerable people proactively: If you’re looking after elderly individuals, children, or those with long-term conditions, contact your GP early if you have concerns.
Use alternative healthcare options: Visit your pharmacist (find out more here about how pharmacies can help) or you GP, or call NHS 111 for advice before heading to our Emergency Department. Only call 999 for life-threatening emergencies.
For more information on when to call 999 and when to go to A&E, you can visit the NHS UK website.
Minor injuries: Attend your local minor injury unit for conditions such as sprains, fractures, and burns. Check opening hours and waiting times.
Be prepared at home: Stock up on essentials like paracetamol, aspirin (and child equivalents), mild laxatives, rehydration mixtures, indigestion remedies, antiseptic cream and antihistamines. Find out more about what you should have at home.
Help with hospital discharge: Families, friends, and neighbours can make a big difference by helping patients return home promptly when they are fit for discharge. If you can provide extra support, contact the ward directly. Fast access one-off grants are available for those who can help someone at home.
What if you have an outpatient appointment or procedure?
If you have an outpatient appointment or planned procedure scheduled for these dates, we will contact you if it needs to be rebooked. We want to sincerely apologise for the inconvenience to you if this happens.
If you do not hear from us, please attend your appointment as normal. This will help us keep disruptions and cancellations to a minimum.