Resident doctors in Cumbria will begin a strike shortly after the Easter weekend. The industrial action is set to start at 7am on April 7 and continue until 6.59am on April 13.
This strike is part of the 15th round of industrial action by resident doctors in England since 2023. The doctors’ union has called on the Government to act quickly to prevent the strike.
Background to the Strike
The dispute centres on pay and job conditions for resident doctors, formerly known as junior doctors. The Review Body on Doctors’ and Dentists’ Remuneration recommended a 3.5% pay increase. However, the doctors’ union argues this is insufficient.
Union’s Position
Jack Fletcher, chairman of the BMA resident doctors committee, said negotiations had been ongoing for weeks. He expressed frustration that the Government changed terms late in talks. The proposed pay rise would be spread over three years, which the union believes fails to restore pay adequately.
Government Response
The Department of Health and Social Care stated the union rejected a historic offer. This deal included more frequent pay rises, increased training places, and higher earnings for resident doctors. Health Secretary Wes Streeting called the rejection disappointing for NHS staff and patients.
Impact and Next Steps
The strike will affect healthcare services in Cumbria during the specified week. The Government remains open to discussions and hopes NHS unions will collaborate to improve working conditions. Meanwhile, resident doctors continue to press for better pay and job security.
