Resident Doctors in England Announce Unprecedented Five-Day Strike Amid Pay Dispute

Resident doctors in England have announced a five-day strike from July 25 to July 30, 2025, in response to a pay dispute with the government. This industrial action is expected to significantly disrupt National Health Service (NHS) operations, potentially affecting thousands of hospital appointments and procedures.

The British Medical Association (BMA), representing these doctors, argues that the government's proposed 5.4% pay increase for the 2025–26 period is insufficient to address years of real-term salary reductions. They are demanding a 29% pay rise to restore earnings to previous levels, citing that current salaries are 20% lower in real terms than in 2008. This decision to strike follows unproductive discussions with Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who indicated that the government would not increase the pay offer further this year, focusing instead on non-pay aspects of doctors' work.

This is not the first instance of industrial action by resident doctors in England. In 2023, a series of strikes were conducted over similar pay disputes, leading to significant disruptions in NHS services. The current strike is notable for its duration, being the longest in recent history, and comes after a previous agreement in 2024 for a 22% pay rise over two years.

The strike is expected to have a substantial impact on NHS operations. During previous strikes, over 1.2 million appointments were cancelled, and the current action is likely to cause similar disruptions. NHS leaders have expressed concerns about the negative impact on patient care and staff morale.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting has criticized the strike as unreasonable, warning it jeopardizes the NHS recovery and his commitment to reduce waiting times. Currently, only 60% of patients are seen within 18 weeks, well below the 92% target.

The Patients Association has expressed deep concern over the potential impact on patients, urging both the BMA and the government to intensify meaningful negotiations to prevent the strike.

The strike is anticipated to cost the NHS approximately £125 million, further straining the already financially pressured health service.

As the strike dates approach, the standoff between resident doctors and the government underscores the pressing need for a resolution that balances fair compensation for medical professionals with the sustainability of the NHS and the welfare of patients.