Ambulance Service reminds the public of strike action next week

North West ambulance leaders are once again reminding the public of another round of industrial action affecting the service.

GMB members will strike for 24 hours on Monday, February 20.

This will mean fewer ambulances on the road and fewer call handlers answering 999 calls.

In addition, ambulance dispatchers and drivers in the Patient Transport Service will also be going on strike.

The NWAS need the public to only call 999 in life-threatening emergencies to ensure resources are available for the patients who really need them.

To be clear, ambulances will still be available – but they will be prioritised for those life and limb emergencies.

Other patients will likely be asked to make their own way to hospital or advised where else to seek help.

NWAS will be supported by the military and by private and volunteer ambulance services and to ensure the safety of patients, senior clinicians will be based in all control rooms to oversee incoming 999 calls and make decisions on responses based on clinical need.

Patients using the Patient Transport Service (PTS) on the 20th may also be affected.

Transport will only remain available for renal, oncology and palliative care appointments.

Providers will be in touch to inform you if your appointment is being cancelled or to advise if you need to seek alternative transport.

NHS 111 Online can tell you:

Where to get help for your symptoms, if you’re not sure what to do

How to find general health information and advice

Where to get an emergency supply of your prescribed medicine

How to get a repeat prescription

More information about when to call 999 and when to go to A&E is available via the national NHS website.

If you are calling about a mental health concern, please use the mental health crisis lines available in your area:

Greater Manchester (Oldham, Bury, Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale, Stockport and Tameside and Glossop – 0800 014 9995)

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