Resident doctor industrial action (7th - 13th April 2026)
Industrial action
During industrial action, health and care services will continue to operate, but some services may be busier than usual. NHS Surrey and Sussex are sharing key information to support the public and services throughout this period.
Emergency care will continue to be available for those who need it most. However, it is expected that it will be challenging for NHS services and they will need the public’s help due to the length of action and the preceding bank holiday weekend. Emergency Departments remaining under significant, sustained pressure.
Please also remember that seasonal illnesses, including norovirus, continue to place pressure on NHS services at this time.
Information for the public:
- NHS services will continue to be available during industrial action, but some services may be busier than usual.
- People may have to wait longer to be seen in A&E, where patients will be treated in order of clinical priority.
- People should use the right service for their needs and use NHS 111 first for urgent but non-life-threatening medical help.
- Pharmacy First offers advice and treatment for a range of common conditions through local pharmacies.
- A&E and 999 should only be used for life-threatening emergencies.
- People should continue to attend planned appointments unless contacted directly and told otherwise.
- GP practices will continue to be open during industrial action.
- Walk-in centres, minor injury units and urgent treatment centres can help with minor health concerns.
- People should order repeat prescriptions in good time to avoid delays.
- If a friend or family member is ready to leave hospital, collecting them promptly can help free up beds for those who need care.
- People with symptoms of norovirus, flu, COVID-19 or other infectious illnesses should avoid visiting healthcare settings unless essential.
By choosing the right service at the right time, the public can help ensure care is available for those who need it most. You can refer to our previous article about which NHS services to utilise, at what time, here. You can also refer to the image below.
For more information, visit the NHS website below.