Resident Doctor Industrial Action: November 2025
After a prolonged period of industrial action throughout 2023 and 2024 (11 separate strikes), resident doctors paused strike activity in early 2025 following agreement on a pay uplift (sometimes referred to as pay restoration) and commitments to improve contract structures and working conditions.
A pay restoration deal was announced in May 2025 to address ongoing concerns about pay not keeping pace with inflation. However, the BMA maintained that pay had not fully restored real‑terms losses, and further industrial action took place in July 2025.
In November 2025, the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care made a fresh offer focused on non‑pay measures, including doubling the number of specialist training posts and covering professional membership and mandatory exam fees. No additional pay increase was offered. The BMA rejected this offer, meaning strike action is set to proceed.
Key messages for the public
- For urgent but non-emergency needs, use NHS 111 online, by phone (free), or via the NHS App (SignVideo and Text Relay 18001 111 available).
- GPs, dental services, opticians and pharmacies remain open. Some GP practices may be affected if they employ resident doctors. Patients should attend unless advised otherwise.
- Attend all planned hospital appointments unless told otherwise.
- Mental health services remain open and available – help is still here for you.
- The public can support the NHS by checking in on vulnerable family or neighbours, ensuring they have essential medication, and helping loved ones return home promptly if ready for hospital discharge. With flu circulating this winter, please book a flu vaccine if you’re eligible, and encourage loved ones to do the same.
For more information, see the NHS Greater Manchester Industrial Action webpage
