From Plaster Casts to Picket Lines Public Support for Industrial Action in the National Health Service in England

This paper explores public sentiment toward strike actions among healthcare workers, as a result of their perceived inadequate pay. Analysing survey data collected in England between 2022 and 2023 (N=3839), 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, variations in support for healthcare worker strikes are 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, non-Conservative voters, individuals leaning towards left-wing politics, and those with greater trust in the NHS demonstrate higher likelihoods of supporting health workers' strike actions. These findings carry implications for future strike decisions and highlight specific target groups for enhanced communication efforts to garner increased public support.