The NHS in Dorset is working hard to keep services running and people safe during periods of planned industrial action. The planned action by resident doctors, will run from 7:00am on Tuesday 7 April to 7am Monday 13 April 2026.

During these strikes, all other NHS staff (including consultants and other specialist doctors) will still be working, and the focus of the NHS will be on ensuring as many services as possible continue to operate safely.

We are encouraging people to use NHS services wisely to help ease pressure on the health and care sector in Dorset. Choosing the right service can help ensure that key services remain available for those who genuinely need urgent healthcare support and advice.

During periods of planned industrial action, people should only call 999 if it is a medical or mental health emergency and to make use of NHS 111 online and other services for non-urgent needs.

More information can be found on the NHS England website: NHS England » Information for the public on industrial action

Also see our guide to healthcare this Easter: Hunt Eggs, Not Healthcare This Easter in Dorset – Stay Well Dorset

Frequently asked questions

I need to order regular medication for ongoing conditions and am worried about running out?

Please order any repeat prescriptions via the NHS app as soon as possible, or you can do this in person at your surgery, to ensure you have enough medication to cover the Easter bank holidays. Local pharmacy Easter opening times can be found on the Stay Well Dorset Website: Easter pharmacy opening times – Stay Well Dorset.

I have an appointment planned on a day when there is industrial action – what should I do?

Anyone who has a planned appointment dates when industrial action is taking place should continue to attend as normal. Please do not call to check if your appointment is going ahead. You will be contacted directly by the NHS if your appointment needs to be rearranged.

What services can I access during any industrial action?

For medical care and advice: people are advised to visit 111 online first before calling 111, leaving 999 for life-threatening medical or mental health emergencies.

Have a minor health condition: speak to a local community pharmacist -as qualified healthcare professionals, they can help with a wide range of minor health conditions, offering clinical advice and over-the-counter medicines for a range of minor illnesses.

For symptoms that won’t go away: Contact your GP for symptoms that will not go away and/or, to follow up on blood tests results and prescriptions. Use their online form if possible to free up the phone lines for people who cannot access online.

For urgent injuries and health conditions: you can visit a local Urgent Treatment Centre for urgent not life-threatening conditions and injuries such as sprains, fractures, and burns.

Struggling with your mental health: If you or someone you are for is struggling, help is available through Open Mental Health which offers support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to ensure that anyone can access the right support at the right time. If you need to speak to someone, please contact Mindline Somerset locally on 01823 276892 or freephone 0800 138 1692.

Worried about your child: Parents can also find advice and guidance on common childhood illnesses on the Healthier Together website.

When should I dial 999?

On days when industrial action is taking place, people should only call 999 if it is a medical or mental health emergency. Ambulances will still be able to respond in these situations, but this may only be where there is the most immediate risk to life.

Call 999 for life-threatening emergencies such as;

    • Cardiac arrest
    • Loss of consciousness
    • Fits that are not stopping
    • Chest pain
    • Breathing difficulties
    • Severe bleeding
    • Severe allergic reactions
    • Suspected Stroke
    • Serious head injuries

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

More information on planned industrial action can be found on the NHS England website, including answers to Frequently Asked Questions.