England's National Health Service is bracing for significant disruption as resident doctors commence a five-day walkout, marking their 14th strike since March 2023. The industrial action, which began at 7am on Wednesday 17 December 2025, is scheduled to last until 7am on Monday 22 December.
Strike Coincides with Winter Health Crisis
The timing of the strike is particularly problematic for the health service, as it coincides with a record number of flu cases across England. NHS leaders have issued stark warnings about a "huge strain on hospitals", with the industrial action expected to cause "further disruption and delays" for patients.
The British Medical Association (BMA), the union representing the doctors, is striking over pay and working conditions. They have demanded an additional 26% pay uplift to restore what they describe as a real-terms erosion in earnings when inflation is considered. The government, however, states that resident doctors have already received an average pay rise of 28.9% over the past three years (2023-24 to 2025-6).
Government Offer Rejected Amid Acrimonious Exchange
Hopes of averting the strike were dashed earlier this week when 83% of resident doctors voted to reject a fresh government proposal. While the offer did not include extra pay, it featured a fast expansion of specialist training posts, coverage for out-of-pocket expenses like exam fees, and an extension of the union's strike mandate to allow any walkout to be rescheduled for January.
The political rhetoric surrounding the dispute has intensified. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer labelled the strike action "irresponsible". Health Secretary Wes Streeting rejected the BMA's pay demands, accusing the union of a "shocking disregard for patient safety" and criticising its "fantasy demand" for a 26% rise.
In response, Dr Jack Fletcher, chairman of the BMA's resident doctors' committee, stated the strikes were "entirely avoidable" and called for negotiations to begin in earnest, urging the government to "stop game-playing".
Public Support and Service Impact
Public support for the strikes appears low. A recent YouGov poll indicated that 58% of respondents somewhat or strongly opposed the industrial action, while only 33% expressed support.
NHS leaders are deeply concerned about the operational impact. Daniel Elkeles, chief executive of NHS Providers, said trust staff would work to minimise the strike's effect, but it would inevitably mean further disruption and delays. Rory Deighton of the NHS Confederation added that the strikes come at the "worst possible time", with flu levels creating immense pressure.
Patients requiring urgent medical care are advised not to avoid seeking help. The Department of Health and Social Care emphasises that people should:
- Use 999 for serious or life-threatening emergencies.
- Use NHS 111 or the NHS App for non-urgent issues.
- Attend planned appointments unless told otherwise.
Critical services will be maintained through special arrangements, known as derogations, to ensure patient safety and prevent serious harm.
