Update on industrial action

This article is from Monday 21 July 2025 – the situation may change with time.

People in Oxfordshire are being urged to choose services appropriately during the upcoming period of industrial action, which will cause disruption at our hospitals.

Resident doctors – including those at OUH – are taking industrial action from 7am Friday 25 July – 7am Wednesday 30 July. This is part of an ongoing dispute between resident doctors and the government.

Disruption is expected to patient appointments and waiting times at our Emergency Departments during this period, as well as the days before and after the industrial action.

Although we will continue to provide urgent and emergency care, we may have to reschedule some appointments and elective (planned) inpatient and day case procedures across our four hospitals in Oxford and Banbury to ensure we keep our patients who are currently in hospital safe. If we have to change your appointment, we will contact you directly.

We never take this decision lightly, and we appreciate and thank you for your co-operation. Anyone with a rescheduled appointment will be rebooked to the earliest possible date.

If you have not heard from us by the day of your appointment, please come to your procedure or appointment as planned.

We are doing everything possible to prioritise patients with the highest clinical needs, including cancer and dialysis patients, and those who have already waited a long time for their treatment.

People can take simple steps to help ensure care is available to patients who need it most by using NHS 111 online, a local Pharmacy, Minor Injuries Unit or GP for all non-emergency healthcare needs.

Felicity Taylor-Drewe, Chief Operating Officer at OUH, said: “As always, our top priority during this planned industrial action is ensuring patient safety while maintaining the highest standard of care.

“We are committed to keeping disruption to a minimum, and we have measures in place to ensure the safety and welfare of our patients and our staff.

“We will prioritise patients who are in need of emergency care. It is important that patients requiring urgent medical care continue to seek help as usual, especially in emergencies and life-threatening situations.

“If your condition is less serious, you will likely face long waits or be directed to other services such as your local pharmacy, Minor Injuries Unit, or GP. If you don’t know where to get support, contact NHS 111 who can provide advice and direct you to the best place for the care you need.”

Felicity added: “Our staff are working extremely hard during this challenging period – please do treat them with respect. There are no excuses for aggressive or abusive behaviour. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation during this period of industrial action."