Members of the public are being asked to only call 999 for an ambulance in a life-threatening emergency, with GMB paramedics walking out on a 24 hour strike today (Monday).
North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) have stressed that ambulances will remain available, but will likely only be dispatched to the most severe cases, and that some patients may be asked to arrange their own transport to hospital.
The PTS service arranging transport for various local medical appointments will also be affected.
NWAS say they will be supported throughout the day by members of the military and a number of private ambulances, while senior clinicians will work with 999 call handlers to allocate available resources.
Rachel Harrison, GMB National Secretary, said: “GMB’s ambulance workers are angry. In their own words ‘they are done’.
“Our message to the Government is clear – talk pay now.
“Ministers have made things worse by demonising the ambulance workers who provided life and limb cover on strike days – playing political games with their scaremongering.
“The only way to solve this dispute is a proper pay offer.
“But it seems the cold, dead hands of the Number 10 and 11 Downing Street are stopping this from happening.
“In the face of government inaction, we are left with no choice but industrial action.
“GMB ambulance workers are determined, they’re not going to back down.
“It’s up for this Government to get serious on pay. We are waiting.”
NWAS’ Director of Operations Ged Blezard said: “This is the ninth day we have faced some form of strike action in the service. So far, we have coped reasonably well. However, I understand there are only so many times that the public will listen to our messages. Therefore it’s important to stress that one of the reasons we are able to get to people who need us on strike days is that we receive fewer calls, so it’s vital that the public continue to behave as they are.
“Please only call 999 in a life-threatening emergency. For non-urgent concerns, please seek help from NHS 111 online, or contact your GP and pharmacist.
“Typical reasons to call 999 include cardiac arrest, loss of consciousness, fits that aren’t stopping, breathing difficulties, severe bleeding, allergic reactions and serious head injuries
“Also, please do not repeatedly call 999 asking for updates on where your ambulance is. Only call us back if your condition has worsened or to cancel the ambulance. We need to keep lines free for other emergencies.
“We are hoping for a resolution to the dispute, but ultimately, this is a matter for the government and trade unions to settle.”
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