Public in the South urged to use NHS services wisely as resident doctors take industrial action

Friday, 14 November 2025 07:00

People across the South are being urged to use NHS services wisely as resident doctors begin strike action today.

The British Medical Association says the walkout will continue until next Wednesday.

Emergency care will continue to be available for those who need it most, but to help ensure care remains available for those who need it most, the NHS in Sussex is asking the public to:

· Use services responsibly and choose the right care option for their needs

· Use NHS 111 online or by phone as the first point of contact for non-life-threatening needs

· Attend planned appointments unless contacted directly by the NHS

· If you have a loved one in hospital who is ready to leave, support with their discharge can help free up beds for others

· Avoid visiting hospitals if you have symptoms of flu or COVID-19, unless it is an emergency

Dr Amy Dissanayake, Interim Chief Medical Officer for the NHS in Sussex, said: “The NHS in Sussex has tested plans in place ensure that the health and care services that people need are able to continue over the industrial action, however we need the public’s help. NHS services are very busy at the moment, with high numbers of people unwell with seasonal illness such as flu and Covid-19. Therefore, we want to ensure each service is available for those who really need it – A&Es for those with life threatening conditions or injuries, Urgent Treatment Centres for those who need quick same day help. For anyone who isn’t sure where to go, or wants advice first, please use 111 either online or on the phone – it is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

“By using the right service at the right time, the public can make a real difference and help us care for the people who need us most.”

More from Local News

Lively public meeting in Crowborough over plans to house 600 asylum seekers

The Home Office has sought to reassure residents in Crowborough that it can safely and effectively manage proposals to house 600 asylum seekers at the town’s army training camp. The assurance came during a tense public meeting on Thursday evening, where local people voiced strong concerns over community safety, the impact on local services and the scale of the plans.
Reform UK asylum motion rejected

Portsmouth City Council has voted down a Reform UK motion on asylum seekers, saying it was inaccurate and repeated measures already in place.
Two more boys charged in connection with murder of Joshua Ingram in Seaford

Two more teenage boys have been charged as part of a British Transport Police (BTP) investigation into the murder of Joshua Ingram in Seaford.
Two local heroes chosen to switch on Chichester’s Christmas lights

Chichester BID has announced this year’s Light Up Chichester local heroes.
WATCH: Live Facial Recognition Technology comes to Sussex and Surrey

Live facial recognition technology is now being used in Sussex.
New business launches in Chichester

A Chichester business is celebrating today with the launch of Little Cowdray at Fernleigh, creating five new jobs.
Poppy Appeal motion at Chichester District Council following Petworth upset

A debate is to be held over whether or not Chichester District Council should charge groups collecting for the Poppy Appeal for the use of space in its car parks.
Adult film accidently shown on board a DFDS ferry heading to Newhaven

DFDS Ferries has apologised after children were left distressed when an adult film was accidentally shown on one of its cross-Channel services.
Witness in Worthing rape investigation comes forward

A man has come forward following an appeal to identify him as a key witness to support an ongoing investigation.
Portsmouth longstanding Lib-Dem Cllr defects to Reform

Former Lord Mayor and long-serving Liberal Democrat councillor Jason Fazackarley has defected to Reform UK.