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About

Some of our members have raised questions with us about what industrial action means for them. We have outlined the key information and signposts to other organisations for further support.

This web page contains:

• links to advice from the regulators
• signposting to the range of unions' websites and key information from them 
• answers as far as possible to the frequently asked questions 
• link to our practical advice for resident doctors and SAS doctors who are worried about industrial action.

We hope you will find this helpful at this time, and we will keep this web page updated as and when we have any further information.

Advice from the regulators

General Medical Council (GMC)

• The majority of our UK members are regulated by the General Medical Council. The  on its ethical hub. It also has .
•  and key considerations, responsibilities of employers, how to tackle challenging situations using professional judgement and working collaboratively with teams.

Additional key organisations and resources

The British Medical Association (BMA)

The BMA represents members across the UK, and continues to discuss terms, conditions and pay with respective governments.

• You can find out more about the current status of strike action on their website, and the .

Academy of Medical Royal Colleges

• The Academy of Medical Royal Colleges (the Academy) is the membership body for the UK and Ireland's 24 medical royal colleges and faculties, including RCPCH. In July 2025, it published .

NHS Employers 

• This is the representative body for NHS employers, and includes a range of advice and information for that group on industrial action.
• This includes on industrial action and the responsibilities of employers. 
• There is a during industrial action, and a
• There is also a . 

Frequently asked questions

What is RCPCH’s role in industrial action?

• As a Royal College, we are a membership organisation but not a union or employer. Our core focus remains providing standards of care, education, training and supporting our members as well as supporting equitable health of children and young people across the UK and globally.
• Within the remit that we hold, and as a charitable organisation, we have continued to call on Governments across the UK for change, including new evidenced-based workforce plans, actions to tackle child poverty across the UK, support for safeguarding and action on rising waiting lists and mental health post pandemic. You can find out more about these on our news pages.

Where can I find out more information on doctors’ contracts and pay negotiations?

• Information on pay and contracts can be .

I am on a work visa - can I take industrial action?

• Everyone in the UK has a right to take lawful industrial action, as . We suggest you speak with your union to discuss any personal circumstances or questions in more detail, and potentially your employer. The BMA has outlined some , including a phone number and online chat you can use if you have any further questions beyond those on their website. 

Practical advice for resident doctors and SAS doctors 

• Our Trainee Committee received a number of specific questions from resident doctors and SAS doctors about the potential impact of industrial on training. Our practical advice from 2022 and updated in 2025 helps paediatric trainees navigate the current environment, including:
  • information to support trainees as nurses and advanced clinical practitioners consider strike action 
  • some advice from paediatricians on how trainees can continue their training during any periods of industrial action, or severe service disruption.