Costs have been spiralling at an unaffordable rate and are set to continue rising. For example, inflation – the way we measure how quickly prices are rising – stood at 7.5% in December 2021.
Nursing deserves a pay rise that is 5% above inflation, as part of a one-year deal that applies equally to all NHS nursing staff at all Agenda for Change pay bands.
RCN Wales has submitted supplementary evidence to the NHS Pay Review Body for 2022 alongside the RCN's UK-wide evidence. Once the Welsh Government confirms the 2022 pay award later this year, RCN members will be asked what they think.
The Welsh Government’s response will indicate what it believes nursing staff who work outside of the NHS deserve too. We are clear that there must be parity of pay and other terms and conditions for all nursing staff, regardless of employer.
Health is devolved, and funding our health and care system is a political choice. The Welsh Government should make the right choice now.
