Resident doctors in England have entered a protracted strike, marking a significant escalation in their ongoing dispute with the government over pay and working conditions. The strike, which began on December 1, 2025, has garnered considerable attention as it unfolds against a backdrop of severe staffing shortages and unprecedented waiting times for medical care within the National Health Service (NHS).
The current strike is part of a broader trend of industrial action within the NHS, which has seen various healthcare professionals, including nurses and junior doctors, engage in similar protests over the past two years. The resident doctors, who are essential to the functioning of hospitals, are demanding better pay and improved working conditions, citing burnout and excessive workloads as primary concerns.
As of mid-December, the number of patients waiting for hospital tests and treatments in England stands at approximately 7.42 million, with 6.24 million of those patients actively requiring care. These figures, while showing a slight decrease since the Labour government took office 17 months ago, remain alarmingly high and reflect the ongoing pressures faced by the NHS. The health secretary, Wes Streeting, has publicly acknowledged these challenges but has also emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing the backlog and improving healthcare services.
Despite Streeting’s efforts to sway public opinion in favor of the government’s position, resident doctors have remained steadfast in their demands. The government has proposed a pay increase of 3%, which the doctors’ representatives have described as insufficient given the rising cost of living and the demands of their profession. The doctors argue that their current salaries do not reflect the level of responsibility they carry, particularly in light of the ongoing pressures exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The historical context of NHS strikes suggests that this current action may extend for an extended period. Previous strikes by healthcare workers have often lasted several weeks or even months, particularly when negotiations reach an impasse. In 2023, junior doctors engaged in a series of strikes that lasted for several months before a resolution was reached, highlighting the potential for prolonged disruption in the healthcare system.
The implications of the ongoing strike are significant, not only for the healthcare workers involved but also for the millions of patients relying on the NHS for timely medical care. The strike has already led to the cancellation of thousands of elective surgeries and outpatient appointments, further exacerbating the backlog of care. Health experts warn that continued industrial action could lead to a deterioration of public health outcomes, particularly for those with chronic conditions or urgent medical needs.
The government has expressed concern over the impact of the strike on patient care and has urged the resident doctors to return to the negotiating table. However, the doctors’ representatives have indicated that they are prepared to continue their strike until their demands are met. They argue that the current situation is unsustainable and that without significant improvements in pay and working conditions, the NHS will continue to struggle to retain and recruit staff.
Public opinion appears to be divided on the issue. While many individuals express sympathy for the plight of healthcare workers and acknowledge the need for better pay, others are frustrated by the disruption to services. The government has attempted to frame the strike as detrimental to patient care, but the doctors maintain that their actions are necessary to secure a sustainable future for the NHS.
As the strike continues, the government faces mounting pressure to find a resolution that addresses the concerns of resident doctors while also ensuring that patient care is not compromised. The outcome of this dispute could have far-reaching implications for the future of the NHS, particularly as it grapples with ongoing challenges related to funding, staffing, and patient demand.
In conclusion, the ongoing strike by resident doctors in England highlights the critical issues facing the NHS and the healthcare workforce. With historical patterns suggesting a potential for prolonged action, the situation remains fluid, and the stakes are high for both healthcare professionals and the patients they serve. The resolution of this dispute will be closely watched as it unfolds, with implications that could shape the future of healthcare in the UK for years to come.
