People in Birmingham, the Black Country and Solihull are being encouraged to think carefully about which NHS service they use during the upcoming industrial action.

Resident doctors, formerly known as junior doctors, are planning to strike from 7am on Friday 14 November 2025 to 7am on Wednesday 19 November 2025.

During these strikes, all other NHS staff (including consultants and other specialist doctors) will still be working, and the focus of the NHS will be on ensuring as many services as possible continue to operate safely.

Health and care partners across Birmingham, the Black Country and Solihull are working to prepare for the industrial action and are asking local people to support by choosing the right service for their health needs.

Patients with hospital appointments should attend as planned unless contacted directly by the NHS to reschedule. There is no need to call to check if your appointment is going ahead.

Anyone who needs urgent care should use NHS 111 online or call NHS 111 to be assessed and directed to the right service. In life-threatening emergencies, people should call 999 or go to A&E as normal.

Services such as pharmacies, GP practices, walk-in centres, minor injury units, and urgent treatment centres will remain open during the industrial action and can support people with a wide range of health concerns.

Sally Roberts, Chief Nursing Officer, and Deputy Chief Executive Officer for NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board (ICB) and Interim Cluster Quality and Safety Lead for NHS Black Country ICB and NHS Birmingham and Solihull ICB, said: “During the industrial action, our priority is to continue providing safe care for those who need it. However, it’s important that people use services wisely so that care remains available for those who need it most.

“If you need medical help or advice, please use NHS 111 online in the first instance. They will direct you to the most appropriate service, which could include your local pharmacy, GP practice, or a walk-in centre. 999 and A&E should only be used for life-threatening emergencies.”

GP practices will continue to be open as normal during the industrial action. Please continue to attend your GP and dental appointments unless you are contacted and told otherwise.

NHS 111 can help if you have an urgent medical problem and you’re not sure what to do. You can contact the service online 111.nhs.uk or by calling 111, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Local pharmacy services and opening times in Birmingham, the Black Country and Solihull can be found on the NHS website. People should only call 999 if it is a medical emergency.