Merseyside braces for 'biggest strike in NHS history'
Nurses, paramedics and 999 call handlers are among those walking out
Last updated 6th Feb 2023
Patients across Merseyside and Cheshire, and the country, are being warned to expect potential widespread disruption to healthcare services today as thousands of NHS staff walk out.
It's being described by some as the biggest strike action the NHS has ever seen with nurses, paramedics and emergency call handlers walking out.
It's all part of a long-running pay dispute between the government and a number of unions that argue their workers are underpaid. They also say ministers need to come up with a better plan to improve NHS services.
Specifically, members of Unite, GMB and the Royal College of Nurses (RCN) will strike on Monday, 6 February. The RCN strike will continue on Tuesday 7th, with colleagues from Unison striking on Friday 10 February.
Ambulances, while still available, will be limited on Monday and Friday. While there will be fewer staff working in our 999 and 111 call centres and for the Patient Transport Service (PTS).
Consequently, North West Ambulance Service is urging the public to only 999 in life-threatening emergencies as they have done previously.
Ged Blezard, Director of Operations at North West Ambulance Service, says, “It’s vital we keep the ambulances we do have available for those who really need us.
“Reasons to continue to call 999 include cardiac arrest, loss of consciousness, fits that aren’t stopping, breathing difficulties, severe bleeding, allergic reactions and serious head injuries.
“Unfortunately, other patients who require hospital treatment will likely be asked to take alternative transport, and there may be delays.
“For non-urgent concerns, please seek help from NHS 111 online, or contact your GP and pharmacist both will be operating during next week’s strikes
“Also, please do not repeatedly call 999 asking for updates on where your ambulance is. Only call us back if your condition has worsened or to cancel the ambulance. We need to keep lines free for other emergencies.
“I am pleased to say that the public has listened to the previous messages we have, and call volumes have fallen on days of strike action. I want to say thank you, but I am also keen for this to continue.”