Ambulance workers in Bournemouth go on strike in dispute over pay

Thousands of ambulance workers, including paramedics and call handlers, across the country are striking today (December 21). 

A group of nearly 20 ambulance workers attended a picket line in Wellington Road, Bournemouth, this afternoon – with plenty of support from the public, who honked and provided warm drinks and words of encouragement. 

Plenty of support for ambulances workers this afternoon in Wellington Road, Bournemouth, who are striking today for better pay and working conditions. #ambulancestrike #NHSStrikes @Bournemouthecho pic.twitter.com/F7fsJiJ0Nf

— Matt Simpson (@MattSimpsonEcho) December 21, 2022

One ambulance worker, Aaron, said the support he and his fellow ambulance workers are getting is “astonishing”. He said: “This was a really difficult decision to come out today and do this. 

“Most of us are still on call and we are here for life-threatening emergencies and, whilst we are striking for better pay, we are still here for our community of patients. 

“To hear so many people honking and waving at us, or bringing sweets and hot drinks, is astonishing – I didn’t expect so much support on this controversial topic.” 

“The overarching factor for striking is we want fair pay for the ambulance service and the NHS.” 

Ambulance workers strike in Bournemouth (Image: Daily Echo)

He added: “We are out here working for 12 or 13 hours a day to then come back to a cold house and a cold family is awful. 

“Secondly, so many people are waiting in the back of ambulances. This is a much bigger problem than what we are dealing with today. 

“This strike is to show the guys in London, in government, that we know what is going on and we are taking the brunt and something needs to be done.” 

Read more: Ambulances queueing outside Poole Hospital due to 'exceptional demand'

A spokesperson for South Western Ambulance Service said: “During industrial action today, we want you to continue to ring 999 in a situation where there is a life-threatening injury/illness.  

“However, if you are not in a life-threatening situation, you may be asked to consider seeking alternative transport if you need medical support.” 

In response to the strikes today, Health Secretary Steve Barclay said: “We now know that the NHS contingency plans will not cover all 999 calls. Ambulance unions have made a conscious choice to inflict harm on patients.”