Publish date: 18 September 2023
Our colleagues at the British Medical Association (BMA) have formally confirmed that the next round of strikes by junior doctors will take place for five days from 7am on Saturday, 24 February to 11.59pm on Wednesday, 28 February 2024.
This further round of action is taking place at a very busy time of 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. As we have done previously, 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 ensure that our services remain safe and accessible for people who need them during this period 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.
Thank you again for your continued support, cooperation, professionalism and commitment to patient care.