York Hospital issues message to patients as nurses and ambulance staff prepare to strike

Nurses from York Hospital will walk out for two days next week, as the NHS faces the biggest strikes in its history. 

Members of the Royal College of Nursing will strike on Monday and Tuesday (6 and 7 February) at 73 hospital trusts in England.

That will include the York Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.

And around 1,500 GMB union ambulance workers across Yorkshire will strike on Monday as well.

NHS medical director Sir Stephen Powis said: “Next week is likely to be the most disruptive week of strikes to date and while local services have worked hard to minimise impact for patients, the scale of action mean increased disruption is inevitable.

“However, it is vital that people do not put off seeking care and come forward for treatment – using 111 online for non-life threatening care, as well as local pharmacies or General Practice, or dialling 999 in a life-threatening emergency.”

The York trust has revealed that operations are being postponed as part of a plan to keep vital services running.

In a statement, it said: “Staff and union representatives have worked together to put in place extensive procedures and processes which focus on maintaining essential services, although these may be staffed differently and there may be delays or other changes for patients.”

Chief executive Simon Morritt said: “We have postponed a number of operations and appointments over the period of strike action.

“Patients affected by this have been contacted directly, so if you have an appointment with us and have not been contacted please attend for your procedure or appointment as planned.

“During industrial action it is more important than ever that patients consider using appropriate, alternative, services. 

“If they are unsure of which service they need they can contact NHS 111 by phone or online at 111.nhs.uk to make sure they get the right care in the right place. 

“This will help ensure that emergency care and attention is available for those that need it most.”