Ambulance service expecting further disruption due to strikes

North West ambulance leaders are urging the public to use the health service wisely as another round of strikes impacts NWAS and the NHS next week.

Specifically, thousands of members of Unite and GMB will strike on Monday 6 February, and members of Unison striking again on Friday 10 February.

Combined strike action will see ambulance staff and nurses across the North West take industrial action on the same day, stretching resources in the ambulance service and hospitals - although no nurses at Northern Care Alliance – which runs Rochdale Infirmary, Royal Oldham, Fairfield and Salford Royal hospitals – will be on strike.

Ambulances, while still available, will be limited on Monday and Friday. At the same time, fewer staff will be working in the 999 and 111 call centres and for the Patient Transport Service (PTS).

Consequently, the public is being urged to only call 999 in life-threatening emergencies as they have done previously.

Ged Blezard, Director of Operations at North West Ambulance Service, said: “It’s vital we keep the ambulances we do have available for those who really need us.

“Reasons to continue to call 999 include cardiac arrest, loss of consciousness, fits that aren’t stopping, breathing difficulties, severe bleeding, allergic reactions and serious head injuries.

“Unfortunately, other patients requiring hospital treatment will likely be asked to take alternative transport, and delays may occur.

“For non-urgent concerns, please seek help from NHS 111 online, or contact your GP and pharmacist, who will be available during next week’s strikes.”

“Also, please do not repeatedly call 999 asking for updates on where your ambulance is. Only call us back if your condition has worsened or to cancel the ambulance. We need to keep lines free for other emergencies.

“I am pleased to say that the public has listened to our previous messages, and call volumes have fallen on days of strike action. I want to say thank you, but I am also keen for this to continue.”

As before, the North West Ambulance Service is maximising resources, using private providers and military support where appropriate and working closely with trade unions to provide cover for the most serious emergencies. It is also working with its healthcare partners to maintain patient safety during these periods of industrial action.

Patients using the Patient Transport Service (PTS) on the 6th and 10th 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.

NHS 111 Online can tell you:

• Where to get help for your symptoms, if you’re not sure what to do
• How to find general health information and advice
• Where to get an emergency supply of your prescribed medicine
• How to get a repeat prescription

More information about when to call 999 and when to go to A&E is available via the national NHS website.

If you are calling about a mental health concern, please use the mental health crisis line:

• Greater Manchester (Bury, Heywood, Middleton & Rochdale, Oldham, Stockport and Tameside & Glossop – 0800 014 9995)