Health Care Support Workers (HCSWs) in Wales are set to receive a significant pay boost following the signing of a landmark agreement between trade unions, NHS employers, and the Welsh government.

The agreement, negotiated through the Welsh Partnership Forum, addresses long-standing concerns that many HCSWs have been carrying out responsibilities beyond their original job descriptions without appropriate remuneration.

The deal will see thousands of HCSWs re-banded from Band 2 to Band 3, recognising the vital clinical duties they perform and ensuring fair pay for their contribution to patient care. Under the new framework:

• All eligible Band 2 HCSWs will be assessed and re-banded to Band 3 where duties align with the national profile.
• Backdated pay and recognition payments will be provided to staff who have been performing Band 3 duties prior to re-banding.
• The Welsh government has committed funding to support the implementation of this agreement across NHS Wales.

This move follows extensive campaigning by RCN Wales and reflects a shared commitment to fairness, consistency, and valuing the workforce that underpins patient care.

Helen Whyley, RCN Wales Executive Director, said: “This agreement is a testament to the power of persistent, evidence-based advocacy, I’m proud that RCN has led their voice collaboratively to this effort. Our members have been clear for years that the system was relying on their advanced skills without proper recognition.

This is not just a pay uplift; it’s a long overdue correction of value, respect and fairness for a workforce that is crucial to safe and effective patient care. We will continue to hold employers to account to ensure this agreement is delivered swiftly and consistently across Wales."

Jackie Davies, RCN Wales Board Chair and Vice Chair of the RCN Trade Union Committee, said: “Our health care support workers have carried the weight of this injustice. Now it’s on the health boards to deliver this quickly. No delay, no excuses. Staff must get clear guidance, fair assessments and the pay they are owed.”

We welcome this agreement and are pleased that the Welsh government have stepped in to make sure that our members who have fought tirelessly for fair pay are finally recognised.

ENDS