There are several reasons it is important to vote in a ballot: 

• It empowers the BMA to appropriately represent SAS doctors’ interests. 
• A strong YES vote provides us with greater leverage when it comes to negotiations with Government.  
• A strong YES provides us with a mandate to call for a strike, escalating our campaign to improve SAS doctors’ pay, career progression, and recognition.
• For our ballot to be successful, we need a minimum turnout of 50% of our SAS membership. That means every vote counts, and however you choose to vote, the most important thing you can do is to ensure your voice is heard by returning your ballot as soon as you can. 

The BMA will continue engaging with the Government, in the hope of preventing the need for strike action and getting a credible offer that we can put to members. However, we need to prepare for the worst case scenario if talks do not progress as hoped, industrial action could be needed to reach the best deal possible.  A strong indication that members are willing to take action, however, can help us in discussions to avoid escalation.

Concerns about voting

• Your vote is confidential. Information about individuals’ voting choices will not be shared with your employer or anyone. You do not need to tell your employer if you are a union member, whether you are going to vote in the ballot, or how you have voted.
• All eligible doctors will be able to vote, regardless of their immigration status. If you are on a visa, participating in the ballot will not affect it, but it could help us improve your working conditions. For more information on industrial action and international doctors, see our guidance.