Dean Royles, the organisation’s director, said: "We understand that trade unions want to protest and register their concerns. We have also worked collaboratively with trade unions to prioritise emergency services.

"But I would urge people to remember that 1 December is every bit as important to patient safety and care as 30 November. We need to ensure that we have harmonious working relationships and that sincere but inappropriately expressed views on the rights and wrongs of strikes do not spill over and poison the workplace atmosphere. 

“Patients in the NHS have benefitted from positive industrial relations for a generation. We do not want to see that change because the impact would be felt in wards and surgeries.”

He added: "In terms of today (30 November), the absolute priority of everyone in the NHS must be to ensure that patients are safe and we avoid unnecessary distress to patients. We believe robust plans will be in place for the people who need urgent care but those needing non-urgent care may experiences delays.  I know that many will find this deeply frustrating."

Mr Royles also said: "We recognise that staff are anxious about their pensions and we hope constructive discussions to resolve the dispute can resume as soon as this day of action is over. It is certainly too soon to be talking about follow-up industrial action. We need all parties to get back round the table and start talking about solutions on behalf of patients and we will play our part in that."

Broadcast interviews:
• If you would like to interview Dean Royles on 30 November please call the number below