Only hours after the Royal College of Nursing branded the NHS pay award in England ‘a grave misstep’, nursing staff across England have been called to action by their union.
In an email to hundreds of thousands of nursing staff tonight, the RCN Chair of Council, Carol Popplestone and RCN General Secretary, Pat Cullen, said:
"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."
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