NHS workers in England have been awarded a £1,400 pay rise.
In a historic move by the Royal College of Nursing (RCN), nursing staff in England are to be balloted on strike action immediately.
The announcement came just hours after the government announced a below-inflation pay award for NHS workers yesterday.
Instead of the traditional fixed percentage rise, NHS workers have been awarded a single £1,400 figure for most bands which varies massively in percentage terms.
Unions have been quick to blast the award as it falls significantly below soaring inflation rates. The average experienced frontline nurse is, in fact, more than £6,000 a year worse off now than in 2010.
They would join rail workers, teachers, barristers and BT engineers in taking action if a strike ballot is passed.
The fight for fair pay must continue.
Announcing the strike ballot, RCN Chair of Council, Carol Popplestone and RCN General Secretary, Pat Cullen, explained, “Today the UK Government confirmed its pay award for NHS staff in England for the year 2022-23. This is yet another pay cut in real terms and we’re clear that nursing deserves better.
“Tonight, an emergency session of your elected Council voted that members in England will be balloted on industrial action.
“After years of underpayment and staff shortages, the fight for fair pay must continue. Your voice in the upcoming ballot will be essential to turning the tide on low pay.
“Their announcement tried desperately to mislead the public on nursing pay. We need your help in calling it out.
“This pay award does not help you with the rising cost of living – inflation is rising much higher. It will do nothing to help to recruit or retain more nursing staff where you work. It does not recognise the skill and responsibility of the job you do. Sadly, it will not keep patients safe.”
