Junior doctors’ strikes, 11-15 August: Information for patients

Some of the junior doctors who work at our Trust will be taking part in the strike action. While we expect that most of our services will continue throughout the strikes, some clinics may be rescheduled.

We will contact patients directly if we do need to reschedule care, so please continue to attend appointments as planned unless you hear otherwise.

The arrangements we have put in place to cover staff taking part in the industrial action may mean that your care is provided by someone different to who you would usually see.

Regardless of any strike action taking place, it is really important that you continue to come forward for mental healthcare in the same way as usual.

You can contact the mental health team that provides your care for help and support during office hours. Out of hours, call our 24/7 Mental Health Crisis Line on 0800 028 8000 for urgent mental health support.

Please only use 999 if it is a life-threatening emergency (when someone is seriously ill or injured and their life is at risk) or if you do not feel you can keep yourself of someone else safe. This includes unconsciousness, chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe loss of blood and choking. NHS 111 should be your first port of call if you have an urgent healthcare need but it isn’t an emergency.

Seek physical health support and advice from your local pharmacy for minor health concerns or your GP if you have an illness or injury that won’t go away.

More information on the strikes is available from the NHS website.