Update on industrial action dates

The East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust (EEAST) has been working closely with the healthcare unions over potential industrial action being held over the national issue of pay. The unions have now confirmed dates of planned industrial action. Members of the GMB union will take industrial action on 6th and 20th March, and UNISON have now confirmed 8^th March as their first day of strike action.

Extensive work is ongoing to ensure we provide as safe a service as possible, however there will be fewer ambulances on the roads. While they will still be able to respond to emergencies, our teams must prioritise life-threatening incidents – so other emergencies may not get an ambulance on strike days.

If you need medical help or advice, go to NHS 111 online unless it is a life-threatening emergency when you should still call 999. Patients should take advice from 111 or 999 call-handlers on whether there are circumstances where it is suitable for them to make their own way to hospital.

During strike days, it is likely call handling teams will be very busy.  Anyone with non-urgent care should first seek help from NHS 111 online.