Strike action in October
The British Medical Association (BMA) has announced consultants and junior doctors will take part in joint strike action between 7am Monday 2 October and 7am Thursday 5 October.
Prioritising patients most in need
Patient safety is our number one priority, we are doing this to ensure the maintenance of all essential services including our urgent and emergency care and maternity care to people who need it. Unfortunately, those in less urgent need of care may experience longer waiting times than normal.
What if you have an outpatient appointment or procedure?
During this time, we will be reducing some of our planned care and outpatient services.
If you have an outpatient appointment or planned procedure scheduled for these dates, we will contact you if it needs to be rebooked to another date. If you do not hear from us, please attend your appointment as normal. We apologise for any inconvenience or disruption this might cause.
Here’s how you can help
Over these days our Emergency Department is likely to be very busy. There are a number of ways you can help us care for people who need it most.
- If you’re caring for vulnerable people, such as the elderly, children and people with long-term conditions, get in touch with your GP if you have concerns about accessing medical care.
- Remember there are other healthcare options available as well as calling 999. You can visit your pharmacist or GP, call or visit NHS 111.
- Attend your local minor injury unit for conditions and injuries that are not life-threatening, such as sprains, fractures and burns. Check opening hours and waiting times.
- Stock your medicine cabinet or pack a first-aid kit with; paracetamol and aspirin, plus the equivalent for children; mild laxatives to relieve constipation; re-hydration mixtures for diarrhoea or vomiting; indigestion remedies; antiseptic cream; antihistamines for allergies and insect bites; sunscreen
Discharge from hospital
NHS trusts are asking families, friends, and neighbours to work with staff to get patients home from hospital when they are fit for discharge. If you have a loved one in hospital, please be ready to help them home as soon as they are well enough.
Fast access one-off grants are also available. If you can support someone in your home, or in their own home, with a little extra help, please contact the ward directly.
Links and information
Visit the NHS England website for more information about the strikes. This includes answers to Frequently Asked Questions.
Industrial action is a national dispute between the Government and Trade Unions about terms and conditions of employment.