Doctors confirm five-day strike in England despite new government offer
The British Medical Association (BMA) said 83 per cent of members who took part in an online poll voted to continue with the strike, with a turnout of 65 per cent. The action is due to begin at 7am on Wednesday.
Resident doctors – previously known as junior doctors – make up almost half of the medical workforce in England. During the strike, they will withdraw labour from both emergency and non-urgent care, with senior doctors providing cover where possible.
What was the government’s offer?
The government’s latest offer included plans to increase the number of specialty training posts and to cover some out-of-pocket costs for doctors, such as exam fees. However, it did not include any further pay commitments.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting has said he will not reopen pay negotiations, pointing to pay increases of almost 30 per cent for resident doctors over the past three years. The BMA disputes this, saying doctors’ pay is still around 20 per cent lower in real terms than it was in 2008, once inflation is taken into account.
Why is timing a concern?
The strike comes at a time of rising pressure on NHS services. Hospital admissions for flu have increased sharply in recent weeks, with more than 2,600 patients admitted in early December alone. Health leaders have warned that this flu season is arriving earlier and may be more severe than usual.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and the Health Secretary have both expressed concern about the timing of the strike, particularly given winter pressures on hospitals.
What does the BMA say?
The BMA says the government’s offer does not go far enough and fails to address what it sees as long-term pay erosion. The union has said it remains committed to patient safety and will work closely with NHS England during the strike to manage risks.
This will be the 14th strike in a dispute that began in March 2023.
What should patients expect?
During strike action, NHS services may be disrupted and some appointments could be postponed. Patients are being advised to:
- Attend appointments as planned unless contacted directly
- Use NHS 111 for advice if unsure where to go
- Call 999 in an emergency
Local NHS services should provide updates on any changes.
Healthwatch’s role
Healthwatch in Devon, Plymouth and Torbay continues to listen to people’s experiences of accessing health care locally, including during periods of industrial action. If you or someone you care for is affected by service disruption, you can share your experience with us to help inform local decision-makers.
If you need help raising a concern or making a complaint about NHS care, we can also explain your options and where to get support.
