The latest wave of industrial action draws renewed call for public support

Thursday, 10 August 2023 01:00

A fresh strike by junior doctors later this week has led to the NHS locally renewing its call for people to help their local health service in any way they can.

Junior doctors from the Salisbury District Hospital are due to walk out at 7 am on Friday, 11th August.

This latest bout of industrial action is scheduled to last four days, with those
taking part not returning to work until 7 am on Tuesday, 15th August.

During this time, normal service hospitals will be significantly disrupted; patients will likely see pre-planned appointments postponed, and urgent and emergency care waiting times increase.

Members of the public are being asked to help by using services responsibly so that frontline teams can look after those most in need of care.

Dr Amanda Webb, Chief Medical Officer, Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board said: “As strike action within the NHS becomes more frequent, we need people’s understanding and continued support.

“It makes a huge difference if people can, wherever possible, manage simple
symptoms at home with the help of over-the-counter medicine and the advice
provided on the NHS website.

“Equally important is the need for people to attend their pre-planned hospital
appointments unless told otherwise, as failing to turn up, however well intended, will waste all the work that has gone into keeping that specific service running.

“People who find themselves unsure of where to go or what to do regarding a
medical issue during the strike should either use NHS 111 online or visit their
nearest community pharmacy.”

This latest strike by junior doctors comes at a challenging time for the NHS, with the walkout due to be followed by another round of consultant-led industrial action later in the month.

Consultants will begin striking at 7 am on Thursday, 24 August and not return for 48 hours.

Further information on local health and care services, including how to access NHS 111, can be found online at www.bswtogether.org.uk/yourhealth.

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