NHS urges public support during residents doctors’ strike across the South West
Disruption expected but urgent care prioritised
Residents of Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire, Dorset, and Somerset are being asked to support NHS services during the upcoming strike by Resident Doctors.
The British Medical Association (BMA) has announced that industrial action will occur from 7am on Monday 15th June until 7am on Friday 19th June 2026, which is expected to cause significant disruption to routine services.
Outpatient appointments, planned operations, and day surgery may be affected; however, patients will be contacted directly if their appointments change.
During the strike, NHS staff will prioritise urgent and emergency care to ensure patient safety.
Maintaining Services during the Strike
Dr Bernie Marden, Chief Medical Officer for several regional NHS Integrated Care Boards, assured residents, “Our priority during industrial action is always to keep patients safe and ensure care is available for those who need it most.”
NHS teams have robust plans in place to manage care delivery during the strike, yet the public's cooperation is crucial.
Dr Marden encourages the public: “If families or friends have loved ones who are medically ready to leave hospital, please help us by making arrangements for them to return home as soon as possible."
This support will help free up beds for urgent care patients.
Alternatives and Advice
GP practices will remain open but may be busier than usual, as they will focus on urgent care.
Residents are urged to consider alternatives to A&E for non-emergencies, including NHS 111 online or by phone, use of community pharmacies, and visits to Urgent Treatment Centres (UTCs) or Minor Injury Units (MIUs).
Emergency departments should be reserved for serious or life-threatening conditions.
In any medical emergency, such as chest pain or severe bleeding, people should still seek immediate medical attention.
More information on local services can be found at the following websites:
Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire: www.bswtogether.org.uk/yourhealth
Somerset: https://nhssomerset.nhs.uk/my-health/
Dorset: [https://nhsdorset.nhs.uk/health/ ](http:// https://nhsdorset.nhs.uk/health/ )