Resident doctors in England have announced a strike action to take place from 14th November to 19th November, following the failure of the Government to offer a viable solution to the ongoing issues of job security and fair pay. The strike has been called by the British Medical Association (BMA), a professional association and trade union representing all doctors in the UK.
In a statement released on Thursday 23rd October, 2025, Dr Jack Fletcher, chair of the BMA’s resident doctors committee (RDC), expressed disappointment in the lack of progress made in negotiations with the Government. He stated that the BMA had been in talks with the Health Secretary in hopes of finding a solution to the current state of the NHS, where half of second year doctors in England are struggling to find jobs and patients are facing long waiting times for treatment.
The BMA had proposed a gradual reversal of pay cuts over the course of four years, as well as better employment prospects for newly trained doctors. However, the Health Secretary’s response, received just hours before the strike announcement, offered only vague promises for changes to jobs and training in the future, showing little understanding of the urgency of the situation.
Dr Fletcher emphasized the BMA’s desire to find a resolution, but stated that the Government’s lack of commitment to addressing the issues at hand has left them with no choice but to call for strike action. He urged the Health Secretary to step up and make a proper offer on jobs and pay, in order to create a better and more sustainable NHS for both doctors and patients.
The BMA, which advocates for outstanding healthcare and supports its members throughout their careers, can be reached for comment at 020 7383 6448 or mediaoffice@bma.org.uk. Their Twitter handle is @TheBMA.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.