Patients in Sunderland and South Tyneside are being urged to think carefully about how they access healthcare as resident doctors prepare for a six-day strike starting on 7 April 2026. The industrial action, which is set to run until 6:59am on 13 April 2026, will affect services provided by the South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust.
The British Medical Association, which represents a large portion of the medical workforce, called the strike following a rejected government offer. The proposed deal included a 3.5% pay rise, reimbursement of exam fees, and the creation of 4,000 additional specialty training posts over three years. Union officials stated that the offer did not sufficiently address their concerns regarding pay erosion since 2008.
Trust officials are encouraging residents to avoid visiting emergency departments unless they are facing a life-threatening situation. Lead Divisional Director Sheena Fish noted that the hospitals are usually busy following the bank holiday weekend, and this demand is expected to continue throughout the strike period. Patients with non-emergency conditions are advised to use NHS 111 for guidance, as those arriving at the emergency department with minor concerns may face significant wait times or be directed elsewhere for treatment.
This walkout is the 15th round of industrial action in a dispute that began in March 2023. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has issued an ultimatum to the union, giving them 48 hours to cancel the strikes or risk losing 1,000 extra training places that were included as part of the government package. The Trust manages healthcare for a population of over 430,000 people, operating primary facilities including Sunderland Royal Hospital and South Tyneside District Hospital.
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