UK (England and Wales?) Ambulance and 999 callers Strike today and 23rd January

[Jm954]

I'm making no political comment here and don't want any in response to this post. This is an information only post of the details of where strike action is taking place and what to do if you need emergency help.

The president of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine warned that severely ill patients will have to take themselves to A&E. 

Ambulance strike dates - Wednesday January 11 (GMB and Unison) and Wednesday January 23 (Unison and Unite). This will involve all ambulance employees, including call handlers, not just the 999 response crews. Welsh ambulance workers in Unite are also set to stage two strikes on January 19 and 23. 

South West Ambulance ServiceSouth

East Coast Ambulance Service

North West Ambulance ServiceSouth

Central Ambulance Service

North East Ambulance Service

East Midlands Ambulance Service

West Midlands Ambulance Service

Welsh Ambulance Service

Yorkshire Ambulance Service

LondonYorkshire

The North West

The North East

The South West

It's reported that ambulance workers will respond to the most life-threatening conditions classed as category 1, including heart attacks or sepsis. Some ambulance trusts have also agreed exemptions with unions within category 2, which covers conditions such as suspected strokes. However, most conditions within categories 2 to 4 will not covered.

What to do if you need emergency help during a strike?

The Department of Health and Social Care have said the advice remains for people to call 999 in an emergency. A spokesperson said: "Health leaders are concerned that the prospect of strike action may affect how people decide to engage with the NHS, but the advice remains that if it is an emergency, it is vital they should still call 999." Therefore, people should continue to call 999 if they believe they need immediate response to a life-threatening condition. I would add, that if it's an emergency and you can safely get yourself to hospital with family or friends then dial 999 but don't wait for an ambulance if it seems to be a long time.

(information from Telegraph)

Jackie