NHS warns public to use health service responsibly during 'challenging' doctors' strikes and World Cup 2026

NHS leaders in the North West are urging the public to use health services responsibly during a four-day period of industrial action by resident doctors.

The industrial action which begins on Monday 15 June and runs until 6.59am on Friday 19 June. The action also coincides with the start of the World Cup and England’s opening fixture, a period which has historically placed additional pressure on health services due to alcohol-related incidents, injuries and stress-related medical emergencies.

While emergency care will remain available throughout the industrial action, patients may face longer waits for non-urgent treatment. NHS leaders are encouraging people to consider alternative healthcare options where appropriate, including NHS 111 online, local pharmacies and GP services, and to reserve A&E departments and 999 calls for genuine emergencies.

Although industrial action will affect hospital and urgent care settings, other NHS staff, including consultants and specialist doctors, will continue working. Health leaders say plans are in place to minimise disruption and maintain services, although fewer doctors may be available and priority will be given to lifesaving care.

The NHS is also continuing efforts to ensure patients who are medically fit to leave hospital are discharged as soon as possible, helping them recover at home while freeing up beds for those requiring treatment.

Members of the public are being encouraged to support relatives who are ready to return home from hospital and to check on vulnerable family members, friends and neighbours during the strike period.

Health leaders say everyone can help reduce pressure on services by seeking the most appropriate care and looking after themselves and those around them.

Dr Paula Cowan, Regional Medical Director for Primary Care at NHS England in the North West said: “We know the NHS is always busy, especially during times where people gather to celebrate big events, like the World Cup. Coupled with industrial action creates additional challenges for us.

“During this time, it’s crucial that the public continue to come forward for care and know how they can access NHS services when needed. It’s important that people use NHS 111 online (111.nhs.uk) as their first port of call for all non-urgent health needs, as well as use their local GP practice and community pharmacies as usual.

“Urgent and emergency care services remain open during the industrial action period and people should call 999 or attend the accident and emergency department in the event of a life or limb threatening emergency.

“Its important that people attend appointments as planned, unless they are contacted directly by NHS to rescheduled due to strike action. I’d like to thank the public for their continued support and our NHS staff who are going above and beyond to maintain safe patient services during this challenging period.”