South West Ambulance Service Trust (SWAST) has told members of the public to use 999 appropriately during latest strike action. 

Today, (Monday, February 20) more than 10,000 ambulance workers nationwide from the GMB Union - including SWAST members -  will strike in the latest disagreement with the Government over pay. 

The public are being advised to only call for an ambulance in the instance of a life-threatening or life-altering emergency. 

Instead, they should seek alternative support from the NHS online and phone service 111. 

Those who need to visit a healthcare centre are advised to arrange alternative transport to get there.

Will Warrender, Chief Executive of the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust said: “As we look ahead to Monday's industrial action, we are again asking for your support, because we absolutely must have crews available for the most life-threatening conditions, and we will be prioritising these patients first.

“This means there will be other patients waiting for an ambulance, and we will get to them as soon as we can. We are sorry that we may be unable to respond to them as quickly as we would like.

“If you are waiting for an ambulance, please do not call back asking for an estimated time of arrival. We cannot provide this information and it blocks our lines for other callers."

“You should also be aware that less serious, non-life-threatening incidents may not receive a response for the duration of any strike."

The strike began at 6 am and will last until midnight. 

In Weymouth, a picket line will run outside the ambulance station on Souter Way (DT3 5BJ) from 6 am until 6 pm. 

Further walkouts are planned for Monday, March 6 and Monday, March 20 unless an agreement is reached between the GMB Union and the Government.