lJunior Doctors' industrial action: information for patients

Chief Executive Dr Sonia Swart said: 

“As you may have seen in the news, junior doctors have voted to take industrial action on three days in December.   

“The first period of industrial action will take place from 8am on Tuesday 1 December until 8am the following day. During this time, junior doctors will provide cover for emergencies only.   

“Our priority during the industrial action is to keep our patients safe and so our focus will be on those departments and wards where patients have the greatest need of care. This means that we have taken the decision to cancel some appointments and we are sending letters by first class post to affected patients. Anyone who has had an appointment cancelled will receive a letter this week.  

“If you have a scheduled appointment or procedure planned for 1 December, you should assume it is going ahead as normal if you do not receive a letter from us. 

“On the day itself, patients who need emergency treatment will be seen and treated as quickly as possible. However, those in less urgent need of care may experience longer waiting times than normal. If you have a minor injury or illness, or you’re not sure where to go for treatment, please call NHS111 for advice.”

The industrial action relates to a national dispute between junior doctors and the government. The hospital's position is neutral and our overriding concern is to provide safe services to patients during any periods of industrial action.