Local health leaders across Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire, Dorset and Somerset are asking the public to play their part in supporting NHS services during the next round of Resident Doctors’ industrial action.
The British Medical Association (BMA) has announced strike action will take place from 7 am on Monday, 15 June until 7 am on Friday, 19 June 2026.
Throughout the strike, NHS staff will be working hard to maintain safe services, with priority given to patients most in need of urgent and emergency care.
As with previous strike periods, disruption to some routine services is expected, including outpatient appointments, planned operations and day surgery. Patients affected will be contacted directly, and anyone who has not been contacted should attend as planned.
Dr Bernie Marden, Chief Medical Officer for Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire, NHS Dorset and NHS Somerset Integrated Care Boards, said:
“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 well-established plans in place, but services across all our areas are likely to be under significant pressure, and we are asking for the public’s support once again.
“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 helps free up beds for those who need urgent care and supports the whole system to keep moving.
“We’re also asking people to choose the right service for their needs. Many conditions can be treated without going to A&E. NHS 111, 111 online, community pharmacies and minor injury units can all provide quick and effective care.
“By using services wisely and supporting timely discharge from hospital, local people can make a real difference in helping us care for those most in need.”
During the strikes, GP practices will remain open, although they are expected to be busier than usual as they prioritise urgent care.
People are urged to consider alternatives to A&E wherever possible, including:
- NHS 111 online or by phone for urgent medical advice and direction to the most appropriate service
- Community pharmacies, which can provide treatment and advice for many minor illnesses and injuries
- Minor Injury Units (MIUs) and Urgent Treatment Centres (UTCs) for injuries such as sprains, minor burns and cuts
- Using these services helps ensure emergency departments are available for people with serious or life-threatening conditions. It is vital that anyone who needs urgent or life-saving care continues to come forward as normal. Anyone experiencing a medical emergency, such as chest pain, severe bleeding or loss of consciousness, should continue to call 999 or attend A&E immediately.
- Further information about local services across Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon, Wiltshire, Somerset and Dorset is available at:
- Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire: http://www.bswtogether.org.uk/yourhealth
Somerset: https://nhssomerset.nhs.uk/my-health/- Dorset: https://staywelldorset.nhs.uk
