‘I’m definitely voting to strike’

I know that my international colleagues are scared of the unknowns of striking, of what might happen if we speak up.
 
But I also know that this is the only way we have a chance to get the government to listen to us. In Nigeria, where I’m originally from, the government doesn’t listen. Industrial action is an important tool there to make change happen.

• Read our FAQs on international nursing staff taking strike action

Here too, the government hasn’t listened. Diplomacy has failed. We’ve tried to reason and it hasn’t worked.

By standing up for ourselves and voting for strike action, we show the government that we mean business.

Nursing is one of the most difficult jobs. We’re dealing with people’s lives and the public relies on us. We should be better appreciated and paid for the work we do. Having to work long hours and extra shifts as standard or to make up our salary each month isn’t OK.

Most of all, it impacts patient safety. Taking on too many shifts, not getting enough rest and not having enough staff means patients aren’t safe.

If we can get everyone together, we can go a long way

There are challenges, for sure. But it’s important to recognise we’re not doing anything wrong by advocating for ourselves. Not breaking any codes or patient confidentiality. 

I’m definitely voting to strike and feel safe and confident with that choice, knowing it’s the right thing to do and that the RCN is there as the leading voice.