Resident doctors in England are preparing for another six-day strike after the government withdrew 1,000 promised additional training posts, leaving many facing unemployment. The posts were part of a deal between the British Medical Association (BMA) and the government aimed at helping doctors progress into specialised fields, but were withdrawn last week amid unresolved pay disputes.
Dr Heather Gunn, 27, a resident doctor in Oxford, said she was 'appalled' by the decision. Her fixed-term contract ends in August, and without the new posts she faces unemployment. 'Me not getting into training means there is one less doctor who is able to see these patients,' she said. Despite the personal impact, Gunn plans to join the strike starting Tuesday.
The BMA argues that pay remains the main sticking point, demanding restoration to 2008 levels — a further 26% rise after inflation. The government, however, says its latest offer would give resident doctors a 35% pay rise over four years, with the lowest-paid receiving up to 7.1% this year. Health Secretary Wes Streeting told the BMA it was not 'operationally or financially possible' to fund the training posts while strikes continue.
A government source expressed confusion over the collapse of talks, stating, 'It felt like we were getting somewhere, and at the last minute it all fell apart.' The BMA has warned that more doctors could leave the UK if the situation is not resolved, citing deteriorating working conditions alongside real-terms pay cuts.
