RCN comment on HSJ article on pay freezes

Published: 28 October 2010

For immediate release: Friday 29 October 2010

Responding to a Health Service Journal article which suggests that the Department of Health might consider a freeze in annual pay increments, RCN Executive Director of Nursing and Service Delivery Janet Davies, said:

“We are extremely concerned to hear suggestions that the Department of Health is considering a freeze in pay increments, which would have a significant impact on nurses’ standards of living. With cuts to pay and changes to pensions, nurses’ pay packets will already be taking a hit. Added to this, post closures and increasing demand mean that morale is at a low. We also recognise that the country is in a difficult economic climate and we want to talk to Government and be part of the solution. However, not being given an increment could be the difference between being able to pay rent or childcare and we view the proposal with extreme concern. We will be telling the Department just that.

“Increments are given in recognition of the experience and expertise that nurses gain while working. The Government needs to recognise this and capitalise on nurses’ professional contribution especially at a time when they are asking nurses to lead major changes in health service reform.”

Ends

Notes for Editors

For further information, interviews or illustrations please contact the RCN Media Office on 0207 647 3633, press.office@rcn.org.uk or visit http://www.rcn.org.uk/newsevents/media

Royal College of Nursing (RCN) is the voice of nursing across the UK and is the largest professional union of nursing staff in the world. The RCN promotes the interest of nurses and patients on a wide range of issues and helps shape healthcare policy by working closely with the UK Government and other national and international institutions, trade unions, professional bodies and voluntary organisations.