RCN response to the decision by Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust to withdraw from the pay cartel

Published: 04 March 2013

The Royal College of Nursing are delighted that Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust have decided to withdraw from the South West pay, terms and conditions consortium.

Jeannett Martin, Director for the South West region of the RCN, said:

“Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust’s decision to withdraw from the pay cartel is the right decision and the Royal College of Nursing welcomes it. We urge other cartel members to take heed of this decision and also withdraw.

“Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust’s withdrawal from the pay cartel is a testament to the thousands of RCN members across the South West region who have made their voices heard loud and clear that the cartel proposals would seriously impact on patient care and should be dropped.

“The RCN has repeatedly said that regional pay is not the way to meet the challenge that trusts face to deliver quality care in budget. This decision shows respect for the committed workforce at Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust. The Trust can now work in partnership with their hard working staff to find ways to address the financial challenge together and also provide a safe, quality service to patients.”