A doctors’ union facing criticism for its alleged double standards has come under fire for approving a pay raise for its officials that falls short of the increase it is advocating for from the NHS.
The British Medical Association (BMA) recently declared a six-day strike by resident doctors in response to a proposed 3.5% wage hike for 2026/27. Interestingly, the BMA’s own paid staff members, who actively support the union’s efforts to enhance doctors’ pay and working conditions, have been offered a lower raise of 2.75% and have subsequently announced their intention to strike in solidarity.
Represented by the GMB union, the BMA’s officials, led by senior organizer Gavin Davies, have criticized the union’s apparent hypocrisy. They emphasize the importance of fair compensation to combat the escalating cost of living and urge the BMA to present a more equitable proposal that acknowledges the value of their members.
Following a resounding 96% vote in favor of striking by hundreds of BMA employees, plans were put in place for a two-day strike beginning the following day. Many BMA doctor members have expressed support for the union’s staff through public messages of solidarity.
The BMA’s announcement of a six-day strike by resident doctors, scheduled to commence on April 7 after Easter, coincided with the GMB’s decision to stage simultaneous strikes on April 6 and 7. This joint action is expected to disrupt thousands of NHS operations.
The BMA’s move to call for the resident doctors’ strike stems from dissatisfaction with the 3.5% salary increase for 2026-27 negotiated with Health Secretary Wes Streeting. While this deal includes phased wage hikes over three years, it falls short of the 3.3% offered to most other NHS staff, such as nurses and midwives.
Dr. Tom Dolphin, the BMA council chair, expressed disappointment over the pay announcement, highlighting the insufficient adjustment to meet the rising living costs and address the salary decline experienced by doctors over nearly two decades. The BMA demands a substantial 26% pay raise for resident doctors to counter the erosion of real wages since 2008, as measured by the retail price index (RPI).
The Government, however, points to its proposed salary increase for resident doctors and related concessions, estimating a £35,000 rise over four years in earnings. These adjustments include covering mandatory exam fees and expanding specialty training positions to enhance career development opportunities.
The Review Body on Doctors’ and Dentists’ Remuneration (DDRB) advises the Government on doctors’ pay rates, with final decisions resting with ministers. The recent series of strikes by resident doctors, including the upcoming six-day action, reflects ongoing discontent over wage stagnation and the need for substantial improvements in compensation to address the cost of living challenges faced by medical professionals.
