Scotland resident doctors are set to launch their first national strike over a heated pay dispute with the government. The walkout, backed by a strong union vote, starts January 13, 2026, and could disrupt NHS services amid ongoing efforts to cut waiting times.
Background of the Pay Dispute
Resident doctors in Scotland, who form nearly half of the medical workforce, have voted overwhelmingly to strike. Their union points to broken promises on restoring pay to 2008 levels after years of below inflation rises.
This action follows a 2023 deal that averted strikes but failed to deliver on key commitments. Doctors argue that real terms pay has dropped by over 30 percent since 2008, pushing many to consider leaving the profession.
The government offered a 4.25 percent uplift this year as part of a two year deal, matching what nurses accepted. Yet doctors say this falls short, especially with rising living costs and workload pressures.
Details of the Upcoming Strike
The strike runs from 7am on January 13 to 7am on January 17, 2026, lasting 96 hours. Over 92 percent of voting members supported it, with a 58 percent turnout among eligible doctors.
This marks the first national walkout by NHS workers in Scotland, unlike England where strikes have canceled thousands of procedures. Union leaders still hope for talks, urging a credible offer to avoid action.
Health Secretary Neil Gray expressed disappointment and offered Monday meetings. He warned that strikes risk progress on waiting times, a key government goal by March 2026.
Patient safety remains a priority, with emergency services expected to continue. However, routine appointments and surgeries may face delays, adding strain in an election year.
Impact on NHS and Patients
Strikes could worsen existing NHS challenges, including long waits for care. Scotland aims to end excessive delays by spring 2026, but disruptions might set back these targets.
Doctors highlight burnout and staff shortages as core issues. Many work extra hours without fair pay, leading to high turnover rates.
Here are key potential effects on services:
- Elective surgeries postponed, affecting thousands of patients.
- Outpatient clinics reduced, delaying diagnoses.
- Increased pressure on remaining staff and emergency departments.
- Possible ripple effects on mental health and community care.
Experts predict economic costs, with past UK strikes estimated at millions in lost productivity. Patients may turn to private options, widening health inequalities.
Government and Union Positions
The Scottish government stresses a cumulative 35 percent pay rise by 2027, calling it fair amid budget constraints. They argue strikes harm patients and urge negotiation.
Union representatives counter that pay erosion has made the job unsustainable. They seek restoration to 2008 levels, adjusted for inflation, to retain talent.
Recent talks broke down over what counts as credible progress. The union accuses the government of reneging, while officials point to fiscal pressures from economic slowdowns.
| Key Pay Figures | 2008 Levels | Current (2025) | Proposed (2027) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Salary | £28,000 | £32,000 | £36,000 |
| Mid Level Pay | £45,000 | £50,000 | £58,000 |
| Senior Resident | £60,000 | £65,000 | £75,000 |
| Real Terms Loss | N/A | -30% | -15% |
This table shows the gap between past and proposed pay, highlighting the dispute’s core.
Broader UK Context and Comparisons
Scotland avoided strikes until now, unlike England where resident doctors recently rejected offers and walked out for five days. Prime Minister Keir Starmer called those actions dangerous.
In Wales and Northern Ireland, similar disputes simmer, with calls for unified pay restoration across the UK. Analysts link this to post pandemic recovery and inflation spikes.
Related events include nurse strikes in 2024, which secured better deals but left doctors feeling overlooked. Global trends show health worker actions in countries like Canada and Australia over similar issues.
What Happens Next
Negotiations could resume soon, with both sides open to dialogue. If strikes proceed, contingency plans include redeploying staff and prioritizing urgent care.
Public opinion leans toward doctors, polls show, but concerns grow over winter pressures. The government may sweeten offers to avert action in this critical period.
Experts suggest long term fixes like more training posts and better retention incentives to prevent future disputes.
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