April Junior Doctor industrial action: information for patients and families

The British Medical Association (BMA) has announced that junior doctors will be taking industrial action on 11 to 15 April. The term “junior doctors” covers everyone who has just graduated from medical school through to those with many years’ experience.

We know this may be causing our patients and families to worry about planned appointments or care they are receiving in the hospital. Please be assured that emergency care will be available, and patient safety is our primary focus.

Jeff Perring, Medical Director at Sheffield Children’s, said: “We are continuing to work closely with our medical colleagues and other services to put plans in place to make sure we maintain safe staffing levels during the industrial action.

“Families will be contacted if their appointments are impacted by the industrial action. If you haven’t been contacted, children and young people should attend appointments as usual. If anyone needs emergency care, our Emergency Department is still open and will provide care for any child or young person who needs us.

“We know the decision to strike has not been taken lightly but there has been a strong commitment on all sides to make sure industrial action is balanced with the delivery of safe care. Our first responsibility is always to the children and families who depend on Sheffield Children’s. By working together we aim to reduce the impact the action will have on babies, children, young people and their families.”

Appointments and care

Please attend appointments as usual unless contacted.

Our emergency department is open for any child or young person under the age of 16 who needs urgent care.

Outside Sheffield Children’s sites

On days of industrial action we expect a number of people to be outside and there may be media in attendance. The main entrances will still be in use and your access will not be blocked.

We completely respect the right of staff to take part in lawful industrial action. While pay is a matter for Government and the trade unions, our junior doctors are valued and respected by the organisation, and we understand the importance of good pay and conditions for individuals and their families. We know this is not a decision that has been taken lightly but there has been a strong commitment on all sides to make sure industrial action is balanced with the delivery of safe care.

Further information

If patients or families have further questions please contact your clinical team. If you cannot get hold of your clinical team, please contact PALs.

We want to thank all patients and families for their patience and support during this period.