British Medical Association (BMA) strikes from 7 April to 13 April

Industrial action is being carried out by resident doctors from 7.00am on Tuesday 7 April to 6.59am on Monday 13 April. This period of industrial action relates to the British Medical Association’s (BMA) ongoing dispute with the Government related to pay and working conditions. 

Our priority is to deliver as much safe patient care as possible, but we expect this period of industrial action to significantly disrupt our activity.

We have been planning for this period of extended disruption. But we expect our services to be busy throughout the days leading up to, during and after the planned industrial action.  

Our services will only operate where it is safe to do so, and therefore the industrial action means that it will be necessary for us to cancel some appointments. All the affected patients will be contacted at the earliest opportunity.  

If we need to cancel appointments, we will contact those affected directly. Should patients not hear from us, the appointment is still planned to go ahead and they should attend as normal.

Due to the disruption, we expect much longer than usual waiting times, and it is always best in the first instance to use NHS 111 online to find the most appropriate healthcare option. It may be possible to see or speak to someone quicker by going through NHS 111 than by coming to hospital, which may not be the best place to receive treatment.

People will be seen if they attend our Emergency Department or Urgent Treatment Centre, however it may take longer than usual. If it is necessary to use our services, please be patient – our staff will be working extremely hard to see everyone as quickly as they can.  

This dispute is a matter between the Government and British Medical Association; however, we know that it addresses issues of real concern. We continue to hope that a resolution is reached soon.