Nurses prepared to strike
EXCLUSIVE Amy Sharpe
HUNDREDS of thousands of NHS staff may strike over pay, warns the union the Royal College of Nursing.
It wants a fully funded rise for nursing staff of 5% above inflation, which is 11.8%. The current pay award is for 4.75%, estimated to leave an experienced nurse £1,000 worse off in real terms.
The RCN believes health staff will vote
for strike action in next month’s ballot. RCN General Secretary Pat Cullen said: “Talking to nurses around England especially this week, the level of not just anger but determination astounded even me.
“They will vote for change when the time comes. They are not voting for themselves but for their patients and everyone who needs a strong NHS – the service is on its knees and nursing staff have found the courage to stand up.
The RCN represents nearly half a million nurses, student nurses, midwives and health care assistants. She said: “Our health and care services are not safe at this time.
“Our members in Scotland have sent a clear message that they’re willing to take strike action to protect their patients.” Up to 60% of the public either strongly, or somewhat support, nurses taking action, according to a Yougov survey released on July 21.