Strike action – A&E and 999 for life threatening emergencies only

NHS leaders are asking the public to only call 999 for an ambulance or attend A&E for life-threatening conditions or injuries only during strike action on Monday 6 and Tuesday 7 February.

Emergency and urgent care centres in the North East and North Cumbria will remain open as industrial action takes place by GMB and Unite ambulance staff and Royal College of Nursing members.

As well as affecting North East Ambulance Service, five NHS hospital trusts in the region will also be affected by strike action on the 6 and 7 February – Newcastle Upon Tyne NHS Foundation Trust, Gateshead Health Foundation Trust, Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust and South Tees Hospitals.

The ambulance service will then be impacted by a further day of action on 10 February involving Unison members.

Dr Neil O'Brien executive medical director, North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board said: "It is going to be another challenging few days with more services across the region affected. We have plans in place to ensure the safety of those patients who may need our help in an emergency, and we are putting into practice all that worked well from the previous industrial action. However, patients should expect long delays at a time when services continue to be under significant pressure.

"Patients should continue to attend scheduled appointments as planned unless they hear from the NHS to say otherwise. Any postponed appointments will be re-arranged as a priority.

"Emergency and urgent care services will remain open. If someone is seriously ill or injured and their life is at risk, please call 999.

"For non- life-threatening illnesses and injuries, use 111.nhs.uk, which is available 24 hours a day, or contact your local community pharmacist or GP practice.”

Public are reminded for everyday illnesses and injury to use the on-line symptom checker available at www.111.nhs.uk, which will re-direct to a health professional if people need to be seen by someone. Also self-care advice is available on-line from the NHS at www.nhs.uk.