…By Henry George for TDPel Media.
Comedian Adam Kay, renowned for his bestselling book “This Is Going To Hurt” and its BBC comedy-drama adaptation, showed his support for hundreds of junior doctors who gathered at Parliament Square demanding higher wages.
In a surprise appearance on Friday, the former NHS doctor urged the protesters not to compromise in their struggle with the government over an above-inflation pay package.
This rally took place after medics warned that they would be prepared to strike regularly until next spring.
Junior Doctors’ Strike Amidst Hot Weather
Junior doctors across England have embarked on a 72-hour strike as temperatures reach the high-20s.
NHS bosses have cautioned that the hot weather has contributed to an exceptionally busy period in A&E departments this week.
Demonstrators’ March and Gathering at Parliament Green
Demonstrators marched past statues of Winston Churchill and David Lloyd George, carrying placards that conveyed messages such as “National Health Shambles,” “Strike to Save the NHS,” and “Claps Don’t Pay Bills.”
They congregated on Parliament Green with a view of Big Ben.
Among them, one individual held a cardboard sign requesting the restoration of their pay due to financial constraints.
Adam Kay’s Speech and Support for Junior Doctors
Adam Kay, 43, took to the stage amid cheers and applause, emphasizing that the situation he wrote about in 2016—where the government claimed doctors were lazy—still persists.
He shared that during his time as a doctor, he earned 25% more than doctors do today, despite not being 25% better than anyone present at the rally.
Kay highlighted the alarming number of doctors leaving the profession, emphasizing that unless the issue is addressed, the healthcare system will suffer.
He encouraged the protesters not to compromise and to demand the wages they deserve.
Dr. Vivek Trivedi’s Speech and the Power of Strikes
Dr. Vivek Trivedi, co-chair of the BMA Junior Doctors Committee, also addressed the crowd, asserting that junior doctors would continue to strike until the government engaged in meaningful discussions.
He emphasized that striking was the most effective tool they had to bring about change and prevent being disregarded and ignored.
Dr. Trivedi’s Welcome of Adam Kay’s Contribution
Dr. Trivedi welcomed Adam Kay’s contribution, noting that his book and screenplay resonated with the public, shedding light on the challenging reality of working in the NHS, including understaffed rotas, daily encounters with death and despair, and prevalent burnout.
Dr. Trivedi expressed the doctors’ desire for an honest conversation with the government, but affirmed their readiness to strike if necessary.