2 April 2026

Resident doctors to take industrial action from 7–13 April

The British Medical Association (BMA) has announced that resident doctors will take industrial action from 7am on Tuesday 7 April until 7am on Monday 13 April.

During the strikes, there may be fewer doctors working than usual, and services will prioritise life‑saving and urgent care. As with previous periods of industrial action, this may mean longer waits for less urgent care and some disruption to planned appointments.

NHS organisations have plans in place to ensure emergency care is prioritised but local people are being asked to support by:

Attending hospital and GP appointments unless they are told otherwise by your general practice or hospital.
Helping friends and family be discharged from hospital by giving them a lift home, making sure they have essential shopping and important items like clothing and a key.
Treating themselves at home for less serious conditions. You can find information about self-care on the NHS website.
Choosing the right NHS service for their needs, such as their local pharmacy, GP or urgent treatment centre.
Visiting 111 online or phoning 111 if they need medical help now but are not sure what to do.
Only attending A&E if it is a life-threatening emergency.
Being kind to staff.

Dr Dave Briggs, Executive Director of Outcomes (Medical) for the Cluster of Derby & Derbyshire, Lincolnshire and Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Integrated Care Boards, said: “While we know that strikes can be worrying for the public, they should be reassured that urgent and emergency care will continue to be available throughout the strike period.

“People can help by choosing the right service for their needs. There are a range of NHS services available, such as pharmacies, urgent treatment centres and mental health crisis support. If you’re not sure which service is best, please visit NHS111 or phone 111 to be directed to the right place.

“We’re also asking people to take sensible steps to look after themselves and their loved ones, make sure they have enough regular medication and check in on vulnerable family members, friends and neighbours.”

The five Urgent Treatment Centres in Derby and Derbyshire are located at Derby UTC, Whitworth Hospital, Buxton Hospital, Ilkeston Hospital, Ripley Hospital. If you’re unsure where to go, call 111.

People in a mental health crisis should continue to seek support as normal during the Industrial Action period. Details of local support services can be found on the Derby and Derbyshire emotional health and wellbeing site.

Services include safe havens, crisis drop-in services and The 24/7 Derbyshire Mental Health Helpline and Support Service (111 option 2) which will be running as normal.

During the last period of resident doctor industrial action in December 2025, the NHS kept almost 95% of planned routine care running, thanks to the commitment and flexibility of staff across the service.