Ambulance Strike – Monday 23rd 48 hours

North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) warns the public of further service disruption due to a 48-hour strike.

Next week sees ambulance trade unions take action over a 48-hour period for the first time since their dispute with the government began.

Specifically, members of Unite and Unison will strike on Monday, 23 January, with colleagues from GMB taking industrial action on Tuesday the 24th.

This will see NWAS resources will be severely restricted on both days — and therefore, we are renewing our call to the public only to call us in life-threatening emergencies.

We will have ambulances available — but they will be limited, and we want them to be ready for the patients in most desperate need.

Typical emergencies include cardiac arrest, loss of consciousness, fits that aren't stopping, breathing difficulties, severe bleeding or allergic reactions and serious head injuries.

On the days of strike, other patients requiring hospital treatment will likely be asked to take alternative transport, such as a taxi or get a lift from family or friends, and there may be delays. For non-urgent health concerns, people should use 111.nhs.uk, their GP or their local pharmacy for help.

In addition, our 999 and 111 call centres will also have fewer staff and be stretched. Therefore, we are asking you not repeatedly call us asking for updates on where your ambulance is. Please only call back if your condition has worsened or to cancel the ambulance. We need to keep lines free for other emergencies.

Patients using the Patient Transport Service (PTS) on the 23rd and 24th may also be affected. Transport will only remain available for renal, oncology and palliative care appointments. Providers will be in touch to inform you if your appointment is being cancelled or to advise if you need to seek alternative transport.

NHS 111 Online can tell you:

• Where to get help for your symptoms, if you're not sure what to do
• How to find general health information and advice
• Where to get an emergency supply of your prescribed medicine
• How to get a repeat prescription

More information about when to call 999:-

• Bury, Heywood, Middleton & Rochdale, Oldham, Stockport and Tameside & Glossop – 0800 014 9995
• Greater Manchester (Bolton, Manchester, Salford, Trafford & Wigan)- 0800 953 0285
• Lancashire and South Cumbria – 0800 953 0110
• North Cumbria 0800 652 2865
• Cheshire and Wirral – 0800 145 6485
• Liverpool or Sefton- 0800 145 6570
• Halton, St Helens, Warrington and Knowsley – 0800 051 1508