Strike Action

Accessing NHS services during strike action - information for patients

We are urging everyone to take extra care and use NHS services wisely during the planned strike action by resident doctors, which will be taking place from  7am on Friday 25th July 2025 until 7am on Wednesday 30th July 2025. The strikes will be affecting all Hospitals and local trusts. West Hampstead Medical Centre will remain open as usual during this period. However, as a training practice hosting resident doctors, our capacity and services will be impacted during this time. Based on previous strikes, we are anticipating that our practice will experience an increase in call volume as a direct result of the strike. We would be grateful for your patience and understanding during this time and ask that If your appointment is not urgent, can you please try to call or book an alternative day to be seen rather than one of the above dates. This would enable us to try to manage the urgent increased patient demand during the strike action.

Plan ahead

Make sure you have enough of any medication you need and ensure your prescription is up to date. Remember, your local pharmacist can also advise and treat minor medical problems. Many pharmacies are open evenings and weekends, and you don’t need an appointment. You can find your nearest pharmacy here.

• Evening and weekend GP appointments will also continue to be at GP hubs across North Central London’s five boroughs: Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Haringey, and Islington. Find out more here.
• If you are a parent of a young child our Help for parents webpage provides advice on how to manage a range of common illnesses in children. For more tips on staying well, you can visit out Stay Well webpage.
• It is important that residents who need urgent medical care continue to come forward as normal, especially when someone is seriously ill or injured, or their life is at risk. In an emergency, always call 999.
• If you have a health concern that is not life-threatening, support will be available through NHS111 online or by phoning NHS 111. They can offer quick advice on the best option for you to get the care you need. If it is a life-threatening emergency such as serious illness or injury, you should call 999.

Useful resources for patients

NHS England has produced some information for patients on this and further industrial action, which you can view here.

Published: Jul 24, 2025