18 December 25
Health, wellbeing and care

Trafford residents advised on how to access healthcare during doctors’ strike

Public health officials with Trafford Council are raising awareness about how Trafford residents can continue to get health care during the ongoing industrial action by resident doctors.

A teal stethoscope resting on an open medical chart with a pen nearby.

Nationally, resident doctors (formerly known as junior doctors), are taking industrial action until December 22.

The move has prompted health chiefs with NHS Greater Manchester to issue guidance on how residents can continue to access the services they need during the strike.

Trafford Council’s health and care teams will be working as usual during this time to support the NHS and to keep as many services running as possible.

NHS Greater Manchester says that hospital staff such as consultants, specialist doctors, nurses and other staff will continue to provide care.

However, the industrial action combined with winter pressures such as staff illness, will mean some NHS services will be busier than usual.

The advice to the public on where to go to help during this time is as follows:

  • Appointments – hospitals and GPs will contact patients directly if appointments need to be rearranged. If you have not been contacted, please attend as planned.
  • Emergency care – Call 999 or go to Accident and Emergency for life-threatening conditions such as chest pains, severe bleeding, breathing difficulties and stroke symptoms.
  • NHS 111 – Access 111 for urgent but non-emergency needs. You can make contact over the phone or at NHS 111 online, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
  • Pharmacies – A useful first port of call for many health issues. Pharmacies can treat a range of health issues such as earache, sore throats and UTIs without the need for a GP appointment.
  • Dental care – Contact the Greater Manchester Dental Helpline – 0333 332 3800.

Trafford’s Public Health Team is also offering information about what residents can do to prepare and help during this time.

  • Plan prescriptions early – make sure you have enough repeat medication to last through Christmas. Order at least a week in advance.
  • Use the right service – follow the list above for non-emergency healthcare and go to NHS 111 for more information.
  • Look out for others – check in on family, friends and neighbours who may need extra help, especially those recently discharged from hospital or those who may need help collecting medication.
  • Look after yourself – get your winter vaccines, including flu and Covid boosters, to protect yourself and those around you.

Trafford Council’s Director of Public Health, Helen Gollins said: 

“We are urging Trafford residents to follow the NHS advice and make sure they prepare in advance for this time. Please use the appropriate service for your medical needs and look after yourself and each other by booking your vaccinations if you are eligible.”

More information and support is available online via the Greater Manchester Integrated Care Partnership.