Ambulance staff to strike on Wednesday 21 December

19 December 2022 - Information for patients

On Wednesday 21 December, ambulance staff will be participating in strike action.

On strike day, there will be fewer ambulances on the roads so patients should only call 999 if seriously ill or injured and there is risk to life. A smaller pool of ambulances will be available to respond to those with life-threatening needs.

During the strike, 999 call handlers will be very busy. NHS 111 call centres will have fewer staff, with longer call response times expected. As a result, anyone with non-urgent care needs should seek help from NHS 111 online in the first instance.

The Emergency Departments at King’s College Hospital and the Princess Royal University Hospital (PRUH) will be open as usual but some hospital services will be affected.

A number of planned operations and outpatient appointments will be postponed due to staff supporting colleagues in our Emergency Departments. All patients affected by postponements will be contacted in advance, either by phone call or text message. If you do not hear from us your appointment will take place so please attend the hospital as normal.

Other health services

GP services are not impacted by this strike action. Please continue to attend your GP appointments, unless you are contacted and told otherwise.

For all other health care needs support will be available through NHS 111 online, via the NHS 111 helpline or at your local GP or pharmacy.

The NHS.UK website has more information on when to call 999 and when to go to A&E.