Only one-third of ambulances running as NWAS paramedics go on strike
It's the second round of strikes as workers demand better pay and more resources for the NHS
Last updated 11th Jan 2023
Health bosses across the North West are warning only between one-half and one-third of the region's ambulances could be running today as a second round of paramedic strikes gets underway.
Ambulance workers from the GMB union are on strike after negotiations between the unions and the government failed to reach an agreement.
They're also being joined by 999 call centre staff and Emergency Medical Technicians which has led to warnings that patients may face delays getting through to an ambulance.
As with the first round of strikes before Christmas, health bosses are urging people not to call 999 apart from in the most serious circumstances as well as asking people to make their own way to hospitals if possible.
Military brought in to help
Private ambulances as well as military personnel are being brought in to support the service for the duration of the strike.
In a statement North West Ambulance say says:
"While ambulances will still be available on these days, again, we need the public to support us to ensure they are available for people with life-threatening injuries and illnesses.
Typical emergencies include cardiac arrest, loss of consciousness, fits that aren’t stopping, breathing difficulties, severe bleeding or allergic reactions and serious head injuries.
Other patients requiring hospital treatment will likely be asked to take alternative transport, such as a taxi or get a lift from family or friends.
Equally, people should use 111.nhs.uk, their GP or local pharmacy for help with non-urgent health concerns.
This is all the more important as strike action on 11 January will see more staff striking in more service areas. We’ll have reduced ambulance crews but also reduced 999 and 111 call handling staff and fewer staff in our Patient Transport Service (PTS)."
999 call centres 'stretched'
Ged Blezard, Director of Operations, said, “Firstly, I want to thank the public for their support on the previous day of strike action before Christmas. You heeded our messages, and we were grateful to see 999 call volumes drop significantly.
“As before, we are maximising our own resources, using private providers and military support where appropriate and working closely with our trade unions to provide cover for the most serious emergencies. We are also working with our healthcare partners to maintain patient safety during these periods of industrial action.
“But, to get to the people who need us this time, we will require you to do the same again. However, I want to make it clear that if you need us, please continue to ring 999, and we will get there as quickly as we can.
“Ambulance resources will be prioritising life-threatening injuries and illness. Unfortunately, other patients will wait and may be advised to seek alternative transport if they still require hospital treatment.
“We will also be particularly more stretched in our 999 and 111 call centres, which will likely result in longer call response times.
“Therefore, if you have already called 999 to request an ambulance, please only call back if your condition has worsened or to cancel the ambulance. Repeatedly calling 999 can block phone lines for other emergencies.
“And if you need urgent care – first use the symptom checker at NHS 111 online, which will direct you to the most appropriate support. Again, you should call on friends or relatives for transport if necessary.”