In a week marked by heightened public concern and NHS operational pressure, resident doctors in England have completed their latest period of industrial action, returning to work today after walking out at 7am on 14 November. Their five-day withdrawal of labour—part of an ongoing dispute over pay and conditions—has drawn significant attention not only for its impact on services but also for the unexpectedly low participation levels reported across the country.
According to NHS England chief executive Sir James Mackey, turnout among resident doctors during this latest action has been noticeably lower than in previous rounds. Writing to NHS leaders, Sir James expressed both gratitude and reassurance, emphasising that the health service continues to meet challenging performance expectations despite the disruption. His letter noted that the NHS is delivering at least 95% of planned activity during the strike period—a result he hailed as “a genuinely impressive response to everything you’ve had to contend with.”
For UK workers who rely on consistent healthcare provision, the ability of NHS teams to maintain services during difficult circumstances remains central. Sir James highlighted that colleagues across the system have shown what he described as “heroic efforts” in adapting to operational challenges raised by the withdrawal of medical staff, ensuring continuity for patients and reducing pressure points where possible. This stability has been particularly vital during the winter period, where demand commonly rises.
Crucially, the letter also points to notable variation in strike activity across England. While some areas experienced more significant engagement from resident doctors, early indicators show a smaller overall turnout than in any of the previous 12 episodes of strike action. For public bodies, policy developers and workplace support organisations such as The Workers Union, this suggests a shifting landscape of worker sentiment—one shaped by financial pressures, changing expectations, and fatigue associated with prolonged disputes.
However, Sir James warned against complacency. Despite the relative stability achieved, he acknowledged that “really hard work” lies ahead as NHS teams begin the process of restoring any delayed activity while preparing for the seasonal pressures expected in the weeks to come. For frontline staff across the UK, this means renewed focus on service delivery, workforce pressures and the need for sustainable approaches to recruitment and retention.
A key insight into worker sentiment comes from a Savanta survey, which suggests only a minority of resident doctors felt the strike should proceed. According to the data, just 33% agreed with continuing the action, while 49% believed it should have been called off, and a further 19% remained unsure. Such figures reveal an important trend: a profession deeply aware of the operational pressures faced by colleagues and patients, yet also navigating unresolved concerns about pay and working conditions.
This kind of divergence highlights the complexity of workplace disputes in essential public services. UK workers across sectors—healthcare included—face mounting concerns about pay stability, inflation, and long-term career sustainability. Yet many also recognise the pressures facing their employers and the potential consequences of prolonged disruption. The tension between these priorities continues to shape workplace discussions nationwide.
As resident doctors return to work today, attention will inevitably turn to next steps. NHS leaders will continue negotiations aimed at resolving longstanding issues, while staff at every level seek clarity and stability after months of uncertainty. For the workforce and for the wider public, the hope is that constructive dialogue can support safer staffing, improved working conditions and a more resilient health service for the future.
Throughout these developments, The Workers Union remains committed to ensuring that workers across the UK—whether in healthcare, industry, logistics, or any other sector—are supported with practical guidance, reliable information and a strong focus on workplace well-being. As the NHS works to recover from this latest period of disruption, UK workers will continue to look for stability, fairness and a path toward long-term improvement.
