There is no extra money to cover ‘outrageous’ strike demands

Proposed costs to cover striking doctors in the event of industrial action next week are ‘outrageous’ and ‘excessive’. 

A survey of trust leaders has highlighted widespread worries about the likely impact of industrial action on patient care, waiting lists and finances.

The findings, from more than a third of trusts including hospital, mental health, community and ambulance services, show the depth of concerns about the damaging and disrupting consequences of further strike action. 

• 89% said strike action would have a negative impact on waiting lists.
• 83% said it would have a negative impact on their ability to deliver patient care.
• 89% said it would have a negative impact on their ability to deliver their financial plan for the current year.

Responding to the findings, the chief executive of NHS Providers, Daniel Elkeles, said:

"Trust leaders respect the right to strike and want to work with BMA colleagues to minimise the harm to patients.

"That means ensuring adequate cover, which is very expensive, as we know from previous strikes. 

"Providers are telling us loud and clear there is no extra money to cover this, and the unexpected cost is bound to impact on the services they can provide.

"Patients will suffer.

"It is especially worrying to see demands for excessive rates to provide this cover. These rates are simply unaffordable and would mean cuts to services.

"The withdrawal of labour by one staff group should not be seen as a financial opportunity for another.

"That would be outrageous in a situation where there can be no winners."