NHS Ambulance Staff Strike Slashes 999 Calls by 32%
Chaos hit NHS emergency services yesterday as Unite and GMB union members staged strike action over pay and NHS conditions. The result? A whopping 32% drop in 999 calls as the public obeyed pleas to only dial for life-threatening emergencies.
Only The Most Critical Calls Got Through
While some staff walked out completely, many ambulance crews worked under strict rules, responding only to the most urgent emergencies. Cardiac arrests, heart attacks, strokes, breathing difficulties, and maternity cases were prioritised.
West Midlands Ambulance Service Thanks Public and Staff
A West Midlands Ambulance spokesperson said:
“Thanks to hard work by union reps, managers and goodwill from staff, patients were kept safe. Our staff acted incredibly professionally during this difficult time.” “We appreciate the public using alternatives like 111 online, pharmacies, and GPs. Hospitals in the region also helped by turning ambulances around quickly, which made a huge difference.” “The Trust respects union members’ right to strike but thanks them for putting patients first while raising their concerns through industrial action.”
More Strikes Looming
The public is warned that another GMB strike is planned for 28th December. However, Unite members will not be joining the action this time.
