UNISON MEMBERS IN NORTHERN IRELAND CALL ON THE UK GOVERNMENT TO SHOW ITS APPRECIATION FOR ALL NHS STAFF.

Our members – including nurses, paramedics, cleaners, domestics and porters – are beginning a campaign today (Thursday) seeking an early and significant pay rise of at least £2,000 to every worker in the NHS.

Staff in UNISON branches based in NHS hospitals, ambulance stations and clinics will be using social media and taking part in socially distanced events to press home the message that health workers deserve much more than applause for their efforts during the pandemic.

Health workers know the public backs an early NHS pay rise, but now want to see the government show its appreciation for staff by bringing forward the pay rise due in April.

UNISON’s pay claim – delivered to Health Ministers across the four parts of the NHS – would see every NHS employee receive an increase of at least £2,000 by the end of the year.

This early wage increase – equivalent to around £1 an hour extra for all staff – could give ailing local economies a much-needed boost as workers spend the extra money in their pockets on the high street, says UNISON.

With the arrival of autumn, and the increasing rates of infection, UNISON believes now is the perfect time for the government to show the high regard in which ministers say they hold NHS staff.

UNISON Northern Ireland Head of Bargaining and Representation, Anne Speed said:

“Infection rates are rising in care homes and out in the wider community, and hospital admissions are on the up.  

“The pressure on staff is beginning to build again, as the NHS tries to open services shut earlier in the year and deal with the backlog of cancelled appointments and operations.  

“Investing in the NHS and its incredible staff is a must for the UK government. It would help the health service tackle the mounting staff shortages that were already causing huge problems even before the virus hit.  

"An early pay rise would also be the best way of saying a heartfelt thank you to every single member of the NHS team.”