Junior doctors strike over 'unsustainable' pay in Oxford

The strike started today, Wednesday (December 20), outside the John Radcliffe Hospital in Headington and will finish on Saturday, December 23.

Doctors and members of the public could be seen holding orange British Medical Association (BMA) signs reading: “Pay restoration for doctors,” and “£15/hour is not a fair wage for a junior doctor.”

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The BMA junior doctors committee have been striking throughout the year, with the longest strike of six-days planned for January 3 to January 9.

Speaking out, the Headley Way hospital, Dr Matt Bilton said doctors have seen pay ‘plummet’ for 15 years, creating unsustainability for those in the roles.

He added that many have made ‘hard decisions’ as a result, including moving to other countries such as Australia, New Zealand, and Canada, where pay is ‘much better’.

Cars could be heard honking their horns in support (Image: NQ)

“It is unsustainable for us as doctors but most importantly it's unsustainable for the health care industry in a much broader sense,” he said.

“What we hope is that the Government comes back to the table to offer us an incredible deal that will see doctors be able to choose to stay and work in this country.”

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He added that doctors attend an average of five years of medical school with debts that can approach £100,000 but are starting their careers on just over £15 an hour.

“Doctors also have huge expenses with regards to exam fees, moving costs due to rotating frequently, and defence union fees.

“And on top of that, the stress and responsibility of the job that they do and with no guarantee of progression.”

He concluded: “Doctors are demoralised and they are angry - with every strike the Government has sought to try and prevent future ones by doing the bare minimum, which is not good enough.”

Sara Randall, Chief Operating Officer at OUH, said the industrial action is going to be ‘challenging’ for the OUH but they are ‘working hard to ensure the safety of patients and the wellbeing of staff’.

“This action comes at a time when the NHS is typically under a lot of additional pressure with winter illnesses,” she said.

"Our urgent and emergency care services are highly likely to be affected in terms of waiting times.

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“Our Emergency Department colleagues are working exceptionally hard and have to prioritise patients who genuinely need emergency care.”

People are urged to seek help elsewhere if their condition is less series such as the local pharmacy, minor injuries unit, the GP or contact NHS 111.