Junior Doctors’ Industrial Action across the UK – Academy statement

Following a decision to take industrial action by junior doctors in Scotland, the Academy restates its position here:

• The Academy and individual colleges/faculties recognise the right of doctors and other health professionals to take industrial action.
• We fully understand the frustration that doctors and others have over the profound NHS workforce shortages exacerbating the pressures they are under and over pay.
  
• We have consistently said that workforce is the key issue facing the NHS and called on the Government to increase the size of the medical workforce and better demonstrate how doctors and other staff are valued.
  
• However, as professional bodies concerned with the quality of care and patient safety, we would not expect any action to knowingly jeopardise the safety of patients.
  Individuals will make their own decision about industrial action and the potential impact on patient safety, and patient care will be one of the key things they will consider.
  
• The Academy and individual colleges and faculties will keep the situation and their position under review.
• The Academy and colleges and faculties would hope that all parties can work together to reach a negotiated settlement for the benefit of staff, the service, patients and the public.

The Academy notes the statement published today by the Scotish Academy as well as the statement published by Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh on 5 May.

11 May 2023