With the long Easter bank holiday approaching, and planned Industrial Action by resident doctors, NCIC is encouraging people plan ahead and use NHS services wisely.

Many pharmacies will have reduced opening hours over the Easter period, so now is the ideal time to make sure you have everything you need, particularly if you rely on regular medication.

Following the bank holiday weekend, resident doctors will be taking Industrial Action from Tuesday 7th April 2026, for 6 days, until Monday 13th April.

The Trust is making detailed plans to make sure we prioritise patients and staff safety and minimise the impact on services as far as possible.  If any appointments need to be rearranged as a result of this those patients will be contacted directly. If you are not contacted then it is very important that you attend your appointment as normal.

People with urgent or life-threatening issues will always be prioritised, and those with non-urgent needs may experience long waits.

Dr Gill Findley, Executive Chief Nurse, said:

“As families and friends come together to enjoy the Easter break, I want to extend our warmest wishes to everyone who is celebrating. We hope everyone enjoys a safe and relaxing Easter bank holiday. It can be a busy time for our emergency departments, so if you’re doing some gardening, tackling DIY projects, or spending time outdoors, please take extra care. Our teams are here to support you, but there may be long waits if your need is not urgent, so planning ahead and choosing the right service for your needs really helps us keep care available for those who need it most.

“Following the Easter bank holiday weekend there is planned Industrial Action, which means it is taking place at an already busy time of year for our services. We are working hard to make sure that our services will remain safe during the strike, but we ask patients to use them wisely. Please only attend urgent and emergency care if it is truly an emergency. Unfortunately those who do need to come may face longer waits to be seen and treated, as fewer medical staff will be available, and we apologise in advance.

“Thank you to everyone for your understanding and support.”

Throughout the Easter weekend and beyond, we are here when you need us. However, we kindly ask everyone to choose the most appropriate service for their needs. Three key things you can do to help:

  • Plan ahead – make sure you have some medicine cabinet essentials such as paracetamol, indigestion tablets, plasters, and antiseptic cream, as well as making sure you have ordered any repeat prescription items in time for the Easter break, but please remember to only order what you really need. GP surgeries will be closed over the bank holiday weekend, and it can take up to 3 days to get a repeat prescription, so don’t leave it too late
  • Use the right service - If you need medical advice but it’s not an emergency, visit 111.nhs.uk for help. NHS 111 can direct you to the right care quickly.
  • Stay safe – enjoy the bank holiday safely.

By planning ahead and using NHS services responsibly, you help us support those who need urgent care and keep our communities safe and well.