The UK government has today (26 May) announced that every household is to get an energy bill discount of £400 this autumn, with the poorest households also receiving a payment of £650. The move is part of a package of new measures to tackle rapidly increasing energy prices.
But the RCN warns it doesn’t go far enough to alleviate the struggles of hard-working nursing staff who’ve had below inflation pay awards for more than 10 years. We’re reiterating our demands for a pay rise of 5% above inflation for all NHS staff across the UK.
RCN General Secretary & Chief Executive Pat Cullen said: “Today’s announcement represents a drop in the ocean for nursing staff struggling with soaring living costs after more than a decade of real-terms pay cuts.
“If ministers are serious about helping nursing staff they would give them a fair pay rise which recognises their skills and professionalism.
“With inflation set to reach 11% later this year, many nursing staff are struggling to feed their families or afford the petrol they need to drive to their patients’ homes, potentially impacting care. Some hospitals have set up staff food banks, which is an outrageous state of affairs.
“With the NHS Pay Review Body’s recommendation expected to land with ministers within days, this is the time for them to finally recognise nursing’s worth and pay them properly.”
The UK government is due to announce what pay rise NHS staff in England will be awarded for 2022/23 in the coming weeks after receiving the Pay Review Body’s report. The decision will have an impact on what funds are available for an NHS pay rise in other UK countries and an announcement by the Welsh government is expected to follow.
The Scottish government is negotiating NHS pay directly with unions, with talks having started this week. The situation in Northern Ireland is complex as a government hasn’t yet been formed following elections in May.
When pay awards are announced, you'll have the opportunity to have your say in RCN consultations wherever you live across the UK. Once again, your strength will be in your numbers. Use our guide to convince your colleagues to join the fight for fair pay, and check that your details are up to date so you can be included in votes that impact you most.
