Publish date: 18 December 2023
Our colleagues at the British Medical Association (BMA) have formally confirmed further rounds of strikes by the junior doctors. The first one in December, followed by six days of further strike action from 7am on 3 January to 7am on 9 January 2024.
The first walkout is scheduled to take place from 7am on the 20 December to 7am on the 23 December 2023.
The action is taking place at a very busy time of the year, and all NHS Trusts across Cheshire and Merseyside are set to be impacted, with significant service disruption very likely.
We have updated the list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) available on YourSpace.
Mersey Care recognises the legal mandate of BMA members to withdraw their labour and take strike action. We have plans in place to safely cover all inpatient areas in mental health and secure services. A number of community junior doctor outpatient clinics have been rearranged. All our plans include mitigating risks in these areas to make sure that our services remain safe and accessible for people who need them during these periods of industrial action.
There are no picket lines planned on Mersey Care sites, but they will be collectively held at acute hospital sites. Those on the picket line will understand that some colleagues need to work as normal, and in doing so are supporting an effective strike. There are no issues with any colleagues crossing a picket line if they are going into their workplace to provide essential patient care.
We recognise that the decision to take part in industrial action remains a heartfelt, personal one and we would encourage all staff to remember our core values and show respect and civility to all colleagues.
As always, thank you for your continued support, cooperation, professionalism, and commitment to patient care, especially at this time of the year.