Junior Doctor Sick Leave Soars 39% Amidst Strikes

Sick leave among junior doctors has seen a significant increase of 39% over the past three years, with soaring absences now occurring on top of strike action. Data from over 100 NHS trusts reveals that 45,383 resident doctors took sick leave in 2025-26, compared to 32,580 three years prior.

Over 300,000 sick days were lost in the last year alone, with a 53% rise in absences attributed to mental health grounds. This surge has led to concerns from former health secretary Steve Barclay, who questioned if some doctors were "taking matters into their own hands."

The British Medical Association (BMA) has highlighted understaffing and resource shortages within the NHS as significant factors impacting staff health, including long-term effects from the pandemic. They also noted a potential positive outcome of reduced presenteeism, where unwell doctors now feel safer taking necessary rest.

In response, the Department of Health and Social Care stated their commitment to improving doctors' working conditions and addressing issues like payroll errors. NHS England confirmed that trusts are implementing agreed plans to enhance working environments for resident doctors.