Trust leaves south west pay cartel

Published: 13 November 2012

Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust’s decision to withdraw from the South West Pay, Terms and Conditions Consortium has been welcomed by the Royal College of Nursing.

There were 20 NHS trusts in the consortium – also known as the south west pay cartel – which was formed to review Agenda for Change terms and conditions, including pay rates, number of working hours, amount of annual leave and sickness leave entitlement.

Dr Peter Carter, RCN Chief Executive & General Secretary, said: “The RCN has long been arguing that the pitfalls of regional pay are numerous and represent nothing more than an attack on nursing staff at a time when resources are stretched. It is promising that these arguments appear to have been listened to. This is testament to the hard work of our members across the region who have made their voices heard loud and clear.

“We hope this marks the beginning of a retreat and we urge the remaining trusts involved to follow the example set by their colleagues in Bournemouth, heed the advice of the RCN and realise that regional pay is not the answer.”

Visit the RCN’s south west pay cartel pages
Read RCN comments on Agenda for Change negotiations