From plaster casts to picket lines: Public support for industrial action in the National Health Service in England

Abstract

This paper explores public sentiment towards strike action among healthcare workers, as a result of their perceived inadequate pay. By analysing survey data collected in England between 2022 and 2023, the study focuses on NHS nurses and junior doctors, due to their critical role in delivering essential public services. Results indicate higher public support for strikes by nurses and junior doctors compared to other professions such as postal workers, teachers, rail workers, airport workers, civil servants and university lecturers. However, variation in support for strikes by healthcare workers is observed across societal segments. Significant disparities in support are linked to individual political affiliations, left–right ideological positions and trust in the NHS. In short, nonconservative voters, individuals leaning towards left‐wing politics and those with greater trust in the NHS demonstrate higher likelihoods of supporting strikes by health workers. These findings carry implications for future strike decisions and highlight specific target groups for enhanced communication efforts to garner increased public support.

Addressing the global shortage of nurses: A call to arms

“…Nurses have protested and engaged in strikes in several countries since the pandemic began, highlighting the global crises in healthcare systems (ICN, 2023), and these strikes are becoming more common (Essex et al, 2022). For example, in England in December 2023, nurses and junior doctors from the National Health Service (NHS) took unprecedented strike action, protesting over failed negotiations about inadequate pay and working conditions, including staff shortages (Baldwin, 2023;Hansen & Pickering, 2024). This was the first We have been left with absolutely no choice but to take this action.…”