Nursing Guides Warn of Possible Strike Measures

Nursing guides warn that the government in England must increase the payment of nurses or be exposed to possible strike measures. A survey among the members of the Royal College of Nursing showed that 91% did not believe that the salary increase of 3.6% was sufficient this year.

Survey Results

More than 170,000 took part in the survey, more than half of the legitimate membership. The results indicate widespread dissatisfaction with the current salary structure. After this year’s salary increase, the nurses start with a starting content of just over 31,000 GBP with a starting content of just over £ 31,000. Pay at the top of the band reaches almost £ 38,000. Almost half of the nurses are in this lower gang, and research shows that there are many difficulties to withdraw from it.

Demands for Reform

Instead of applying for a larger salary increase, the union would like to reform the way the NHS contract works and that too many nurses get stuck on the lowest salary straps that do not reflect their skills. The RCN asked the nurses to automatically reach the tape six after an initial period of regulations, possibly 18 months. Sources in the union said that this could be a way to tackle the low payment.

Government Response

The government said it was disappointed that nurses were not satisfied with the Pay Award, but it was ready to discuss a more comprehensive reform of the contract. A spokeswoman for the Ministry of Health and Social Affairs said that it was "disappointing" that RCN members are not satisfied with their increase in salary because it was due to inflation. But she said the ministers were ready to enter discussions.

Threat of Industrial Action

If the government does not act in summer, the RCN threatens to achieve an industrial campaign in autumn. The Secretary General of RCN said: "My job feels deeply undervalued and therefore the government’s record numbers are asking to awake, feeling the urgency here and doing what is right for them and patients." Record numbers have given this judgment about a broken system that holds the care payment and career back and hindered the NHS.

Comparison with Other Parts of the UK

Members in Wales and Northern Ireland also said that the increase of 3.6% was not sufficient. In Scotland, an increase of 8% has increased over two years. The RCN warned that there was widespread dissatisfaction with the NHS contract, which was known as an agenda for changes. The union is seeking a more comprehensive reform of the contract to address the issues faced by nurses.