Ambulance strikes in full force in West Midlands
Hundreds of paramedics and ambulance workers took to the picket lines today.
On the picket lines in the West Midlands, hundreds of ambulance workers came together on a walk out over a row of pay and working conditions.
Unions like Unite and GMB balloted for strike action last month and were successful throughout the country.
Leader of Unite Union, Sharon Graham, was even on the picket line in Coventry.
She said: "The government will not come to a negotiating table to give these workers a pay rise. These are the workers that went out in the pandemic, and saved lives as well as losing their own."
On the picket line in Erdington, many workers gathered with signs saying 'Save our NHS' and 'Safe Staffing Now'.
Mike Hooper has been a paramedic for 37 years at West Midlands Ambulance Service and was at the walk out.
Mike said: "We now have foodbanks in workplaces, which is a shocking thing to see in the offices. It's not just about the frontline staff, it's about everyone who works in the organisation.
"Public support is great and they know what we all do and we're all doing it for the right reasons.
"If we have to strike and take action, then that is what we will do."
Health Secretary, Steve Barclay, has urged the public to "use their common sense" as the ambulance system will be "under very severe pressure today".
He's also said he will not move on the issue of pay in the ambulance sector.
West Midlands Ambulance Service have still been attending emergencies throughout the day.
Jeremy Brown is the Assistant Chief Ambulance Officer for West Midlands Ambulance Service, he said: "My advice is that you should only call 999 if you or the patient is critically unwell. Ambulances will be dispatched where appropriate."
The strikes are lasting 24 hours each time.
A further ambulance strike date is expected to take place on December 28.