Health Secretary Wes Streeting is preparing to present a new offer to resident doctors in England, aiming to resolve the long-standing industrial dispute that has plagued the NHS for nearly three years. The package includes a significant pay increase specifically for resident doctors, along with guarantees on working conditions, as part of efforts to persuade the British Medical Association (BMA) to call off its campaign of strikes.
Enhanced Pay Offer and Working Condition Guarantees
Streeting plans to offer resident doctors a pay rise that exceeds the NHS-wide 2.5% offer for 2026/27, which was previously deemed the maximum affordable by the government. Sources indicate he is considering at least doubling this figure, addressing the BMA's criticism of the initial offer as "indefensible" and "an insult" to medical professionals. This targeted increase is designed to break the deadlock before the third anniversary of the first doctors' strike in March 2023.
In addition to pay, the health secretary is introducing measures to ensure better working conditions for resident doctors. Hospitals could face financial penalties if they fail to provide essential amenities such as rest areas and access to hot food during shifts, including overnight. This responds to longstanding complaints from the BMA about inadequate working environments.
Addressing Key Grievances and Progress in Talks
The new package also aims to tackle other major issues, including payment or time off in lieu for extra work done outside contracted hours. This follows frustrations over slow progress on a 10-point plan by NHS England's chief executive, Jim Mackey, which highlighted areas like payroll errors and rota management.
Recent talks between Streeting and BMA representatives have shown signs of optimism. Dr Arjan Singh, deputy chair of the BMA's resident doctors committee, stated on BBC Radio 4 that further strikes are unlikely in the near future due to ongoing progress, emphasising that strike action is a "negotiating tool" rather than the goal.
Public Opinion and the Urgency for Resolution
The push for a resolution has gained urgency after the BMA announced that resident doctors voted overwhelmingly to continue striking for another six months, demanding a 26% pay rise over several years and more training places. Each five-day strike since Labour took power in July 2024 has cost the NHS an estimated £250 million, with 14 strikes held since March 2023.
New polling by YouGov reveals that 52% of the British public oppose strikes by resident doctors, with 38% in support, indicating a divided public sentiment as negotiations continue.
