NORTH WEST AMBULANCE SERVICE WORKERS ARE STAGING A 48-HOUR STRIKE FROM TODAY OVER PAY AND WORK CONDITIONS

Hard working ambulance workers are out on strike again today over a dispute centred around pay and conditions.

Members of Unite and Unison are are taking full day strike action today (Monday, 23 January), with the GMB union following suit tomorrow (Tuesday the 24th).

NWAS will see services impacted both days with serious restrictions in place.

Ambulances will only be dispatched in the case of a life threatening emergency such as cardiac arrest, loss of consciousness, head injuries etc...

The strike action will take place on:

23 January – Unison – 1100-2300 and Unite – 00.01 to 23.59

24 January – GMB – 00.01 to 23.59

During the strike, other patients requiring hospital treatment will likely be asked to take alternative transport, such as a taxi or get a lift from family or friends, and there may be delays. For non-urgent health concerns, people should use 111.nhs.uk, their GP or their local pharmacy for help.

In addition, 999 and 111 call centres will also have fewer staff and be stretched. Therefore, they are asking you not repeatedly call them asking for updates on where your ambulance is. Please only call back if your condition has worsened or to cancel the ambulance. They need to keep lines free for other emergencies.

Patients using the Patient Transport Service (PTS) on the 23rd and 24th may also be affected. Transport will only remain available for renal, oncology and palliative care appointments. Providers will be in touch to inform you if your appointment is being cancelled or to advise if you need to seek alternative transport.

Ged Blezard, Director of Operations, said:

Quote

 

“We have been really well supported by the public on the previous two days affected by strikes. However, we understand that anxiety these days can affect people concerned about their health.

“While we hope for a swift resolution to the dispute. This is an issue between the trade unions and the Government in relation to pay, and we respect members’ right to strike.”

“Be assured that if you really need us, please continue to call 999, and we will come as quickly as possible. As before, we are maximising our own resources, using private providers and military support where appropriate and working closely with our trade unions to provide cover for the most serious emergencies. We are also working with our healthcare partners to maintain patient safety during these periods of industrial action.

“But, ultimately, to get to the people who need us this time, we need people to use us wisely.

“Only call 999 in a life-threatening emergency, and if you need urgent care – first use the symptom checker at NHS 111 online, which will direct you to the most appropriate support. Again, you should call on friends or relatives for transport if necessary.”