LIVE: Paramedics go on strike across Greater Manchester in pay dispute - latest updates
The biggest ambulance service strike in 30 years was hitting Greater Manchester today, with paramedics, call-handlers, technicians and other North West Ambulance Service staff walking out in a row over pay.
Picket lines were being manned across Greater Manchester, largely outside ambulance stations, with senior union figures set to visit striking workers later today close to Manchester Royal Infirmary in central Manchester. It is expected that all category 1 calls – the most life-threatening such as cardiac arrest – will be responded to. Some ambulance trusts have agreed to exemptions with unions for specific incidents within so-called category 2 which covers serious conditions, such as stroke or chest pain.However, patients in category three – typically including falls – and category four are unlikely to be sent an ambulance during the strikes.
"This means continuing to call 999 for life-threatening emergencies – if it is not life-threatening you may have to wait longer than usual for an ambulance. And using 111 online for other health needs where you will receive clinical advice on the best next steps to take.
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