NHS Noticeboard
See the latest update for GMB members in the NHS and ambulance service
See the latest update for GMB members in the NHS and ambulance service
Date: 01/10/2021
The Government in England made it law that all workers in adult residential care homes had to be Covid-19 vaccinated as a requirement of their employment. This will become law in England with effect from 11th November. GMB is opposed to mandatory vaccination of any worker and we stated this in our submission into the Government consultation on the issue.
Government in England have now launched a further consultation which seeks to:
GMB will be making a submission into this consultation to ensure the voices of our health and social care members are heard. We want to understand all the views of our members on this latest consultation. In order to do this, we have created this survey.
This proposal is one being made by the Government in England only. However, GMB has chosen to include our members outside of England in this survey so that they too can have their voices heard – so members in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland are also encouraged to complete the survey.
Your answers will help us to understand the views of all of our members and ensure that all viewpoints are represented where possible.
This survey is totally confidential. Your manager will not know if you have completed it. We will use the results in our submission into this Government Consultation.
The more people that complete the survey, the stronger our evidence will become. So please do consider sharing this survey with other members and colleagues working in social care. It should take only a few minutes of your time to complete.
You can complete the survey online at https://www.gmb.org.uk/21vax
This survey closes on Friday 8th October 2021
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) were commissioned to review and provide updated recommendations on Covid-19 control measures.
These have now been published at gov.uk
Chief Nursing Officer, Ruth May, as written to NHS Trusts with the follow advice:
The UKHSA guidance consists of three short thematic guidance documents focused on changes to the requirements for physical distancing, pre-elective procedure patient testing and enhanced cleaning.
These changes focus primarily on low-risk areas, and so it is understood that the impact of enhanced IPC will still be significant in a number of providers and pathways.
In terms of physical distancing, UKHSA has recommended that this be reduced from the current 2m to pre-pandemic levels for patients in low-risk pathways, subject to a series of conditions which should be met where possible.
UKHSA has also proposed some additional flexibility to the current NICE pre-elective patient testing protocols for specific patient groups, ie an on-the-day LFD test.
UKHSA has also recommended that enhanced cleaning procedures are no longer required in low risk areas.
The current UK IPC guidance published by Public Health England is in the process of being revised to ensure that it is appropriate for the management of COVID through the coming winter. This revised guidance is due to be published ahead of winter and will incorporate the UKHSA recommendations.
In advance of publication of the revised UK IPC Guidance we have been advised that, where it would improve capacity or efficiency, providers should implement the UKHSA recommendations, unless a local risk assessment precludes their safe implementation.
GMB’s priority remains in keeping our members safe at work which is why throughout the Pandemic we have been regularly updating our Coronavirus Hub with all the information you need to keep yourself safe.
If you have concerns that you may have contracted Covid-19 in the workplace, please record your details on the GMB COVID-19 Risk Register.
It is essential that your membership details are up to date so that we can ensure you are kept up to date with advice and guidance relevant to you.
You can update your details by contacting your local GMB Representative or online.
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Would you like more information in becoming a GMB Representative in your Workplace? Find out more here, or visit the NHS dedicated campaign page We're campaigning for pay justice in our NHS
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Date: 24/09/2021
GMB members working across all occupations in the NHS and Ambulance Services have overwhelmingly rejected the Government’s 3% Pay Award.
As a Union, we are now moving towards formal industrial action ballots and GMB Regions are working at pace to identify key targets and timelines in the next phase of this campaign.
Regular updates will be available throughout this process, so it is essential that we have your correct contact details, employment details and you have given us permission to contact you by phone, text, email and post. You can update your details at gmb.org.uk/mygmb
We understand that the 3% has now been imposed and is arriving in people’s pay packets. This does not mean that our campaign for Pay Justice is over. In fact, it has only confirmed what we have said – that 3% was another real terms pay cut and the reality for the majority of NHS workers. The pay increase, plus back pay and pension arrears, has actually resulted in many workers seeing a reduction in their monthly take home pay.
A Paramedic at the top of Band 6 Paramedic facing a £60 per month reduction, or £726 per year less than before the 3% pay award.
In addition to this, inflation is at 4.8%. Also, national insurance contributions are due to increase which means the average NHS worker will pay more than £500 extra per year.
You can see how much money you have lost over the last decade in real terms using our Pay Loss Calculator.
GMB Union is still fighting for 15%, or £2 per hour (whichever is the greatest) and will continue to lobby government on this issue. We have written to the Secretary of State, urging him to meet with GMB and enter into meaningful discussions as to how he intends to truly recognise and reward NHS and Ambulance Service workers for their work.
Date: 22/09/2021
The Government in England made it law that all workers in adult residential care homes had to be Covid-19 vaccinated as a requirement of their employment. This will become law in England with effect from 11th November. GMB is opposed to mandatory vaccination of any worker and we stated this in our submission into the Government consultation on the issue.
Government in England have now launched a further consultation which seeks to:
GMB will be making a submission into this consultation to ensure the voices of our health and social care members are heard. We want to understand all the views of our members on this latest consultation. In order to do this, we have created this survey.
This proposal is one being made by the Government in England only. However, GMB has chosen to include our members outside of England in this survey so that they too can have their voices heard – so members in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland are also encouraged to complete the survey.
Your answers will help us to understand the views of all of our members and ensure that all viewpoints are represented where possible.
This survey is totally confidential. Your manager will not know if you have completed it. We will use the results in our submission into this Government Consultation.
The more people that complete the survey, the stronger our evidence will become. So please do consider sharing this survey with other members and colleagues working in social care. It should take only a few minutes of your time to complete.
You can complete the survey online at gmb.org.uk/21vax
This survey closes on Friday 8th October 2021
Not a GMB member
Join today and get involved – gmb.org.uk/join
Check out the NHS Hub at - We're campaigning for pay justice in our NHS
Date: 20/09/21
More than 9 out of 10 GMB members in the NHS have rejected the Government’s pay ‘insult’. GMB will now move to a strike ballot after 93% of members opposed the settlement and urges Health Secretary Sajid Javid to meet with NHS members to avoid industrial action.
Rachel Harrison, GMB National Officer, said:
GMB members across the NHS have overwhelmingly rejected the offer. We now have no alternative as a union but to trigger industrial action ballots.
The result is no surprise – a 3% pay increase is an insult after ten years of pay cuts under the Conservatives. With inflation at 4.8%, this settlement amounts to yet another real terms pay cut. On top of that, GMB analysis shows the average NHS worker will pay more than £500 extra a year in increased National Insurance contributions.
Our members are already working above and beyond their contracts and the NHS can’t continue to survive on this goodwill any longer. We are seeking urgent talks with the Health Secretary. He must meet NHS workers and discuss how to recognise and reward the true value of what they are doing.
Our health workers deserve a restorative 15% pay increase, not yet more salt in their wounds.”
Further updates to follow in the coming weeks.
Not a GMB member?
Join today and get involved - Join the union for NHS staff today
Check out the NHS Hub at - We're campaigning for pay justice in our NHS
Date: 08/09/21
TIME IS RUNNING OUT TO HAVE YOUR SAY ON YOUR PAY!!
GMB’S ballot closes on Friday 17th September 2021.
Have you had your say on your pay yet?
You may have heard that the 3% pay award from Government will be in your pay packets this month. This is because the Government chose to use the NHS Pay Review Body Process rather than negotiate with recognised health unions. However, your VOTE is still Crucial! We need to send a clear message to Government that you do not agree that 3% is a fair pay offer – we can only do this by showing them that GMB members have voted in huge numbers to say you do not accept it. Once we have that mandate from you, our members, to say no to the 3%, we can approach the Government for more.
GMB still believes that only a restorative increase of 15% would be sufficient to reward NHS workers and assist in the crucial task of retaining staff after the pandemic. Your GMB National NHS Advisory Group and National Ambulance Committee are recommending you Vote to REJECT in the upcoming members ballot. 3% falls far short of what you deserve. Your voice matters. This is your chance to Have Your Say on Your Pay. This is for you to say accept or reject to the 3%.
GMB are balloting members in a variety of ways across the regions – workplace, text, email and post. If you haven’t heard anything yet regarding how you will be able to vote, you can email the ballot contact in your region to ask for a ballot paper:
Birmingham & West Midlands - Stuart.richards@gmb.org.uk
London - NHS@gmblondon.org.uk
Midlands & East Coast - Adele.rice@gmb.org.uk
North West - ballot@gmbnorthwest.co.uk
Northern - Chris.jukes@gmb.org.uk
South West - Mike.payne@gmb.org.uk
Southern - infoso@gmb.org.uk
Yorkshire & North Derbyshire - Wakefield.office@gmb.org.uk
Not a GMB member?
Join today and get involved - Join the union for NHS staff today | GMB
Check out the NHS Hub at - We're campaigning for pay justice in our NHS | GMB
Date: 02/09/21
The NHS Staff Council Guidance on Quarantine has been revised by a joint working group of the NHS Staff Council Executive. This includes details on the conditions for re-entering England and leave and pay considerations for those who are required to quarantine.
Read the full guidance on nhsemployers.org
New Government Regulations come into force on the 11th November 2021 which require care home staff to refuse entry to anybody who cannot provide evidence that they have had two doses of one of the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Authority (MHRA) approved Covid-19 vaccines (unless medically exempt, or in cases of emergency).
All providers delivering NHS funded services into a care home have been advised that they will need to:
Please note, that GMB is opposed to mandatory vaccination of workers and we made this clear in our submission into the Government’s consultation on this issue affecting our social care members. Unfortunately, they pushed ahead with the legislation and this requirement for the adult social care workforce, and anyone entering care homes (excluding family and friends and those who are medically exempt) becomes law on 11th November 2021. Without a challenge to that law we will not be able to change the rules on this.
However, although this will soon be a requirement for those working in adult social care homes, this is not a requirement of being employed in the NHS. Therefore, if any healthcare worker is not covid vaccinated, alternative duties or roles will need to be considered on an individual basis with the employer. We are aware that some employers in the NHS and PTS have made threats regarding dismissal. Members should be advised not to resign and regions will consider any future dismissals as a result of this as potentially unfair and seek legal advice.
Please also note, we are expecting Government to launch a consultation imminently on extending the requirement of mandatory vaccination across the whole of the health service. GMB will of course be making a submission into the consultation.
Operation guidance can be accessed at gov.uk
FAQs can be accessed at england.nhs.uk - C1372-FAQs-re-Vaccinations-for-NHS-staff-entering-care-homes_Aug21.pdf
The Regulations can be accessed at legislation.gov.uk - Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) (Amendment) (Coronavirus) Regulations 2021
GMB is part of the AGP Alliance, along with many other unions and healthcare organisation. The man purpose of the group was to lobby Government and PHE to influence change and try to secure increased PPE protection for our members working across the healthcare sector.
As we have learned more about Covid-19, the remit of the group has evolved. The decision has now been made to change the name of the group to reflect this. Please see below message from the Alliance.
“Dear Alliance colleagues,
Our Alliance was born during different times last year when the exclusion of certain procedures from the Aerosol Generating Procedure list (AGP) had led so many professional organisations to come together in our Alliance. We all had to start somewhere appropriate to our special interests as defined within the then WHO/PHE AGP list which has remained extant throughout the pandemic. This initial concept has been overtaken by the realisation that aerosols are a principle route of transmission of Covid-19 irrespective of procedure. From this, the need for improved ventilation became accepted as advocated by our colleagues in FreshAir NHS. SAGE then stated that simple physics dictates that the greatest risk from aerosols is to be found closest to a source patient- within 1-2m. The evidence that simply breathing, talking, singing, shouting, sneezing or most importantly, coughing produces more aerosol than many so-called AGPs means that risk is independent of procedure and is dictated by proximity. Improved ventilation, whilst vitally important, does not adequately mitigate against close quarter transmission. It follows that any HCW providing care to an infected or suspected C-19 patient within 2m must be exposed to transmission by aerosol, and that measures to protect that HCW must take these facts into account.
For these reasons, the concept of an AGP list should become redundant/obsolete and replaced by risk assessment which takes due regard to the proximity of any HCW to an infected patient. We know that use of FFP3 masks or respirator hoods reduces the risk to the wearer compared to FRSMs which continue to be advised in PHE/IPC guidance despite the recent subtle change to include risk assessment leading to potential use of FFP3 masks.
We have received a number of calls to change our name from Alliance members and those working in close partnership with us. The name of our Alliance is therefore out of date and no longer indicates our objectives which remain unchanged. If we are to successfully remove the concept of NGT insertion, dysphagia assessments, paramedic care in ambulances, community nursing contacts, chest physiotherapy, CPR, respiratory or GI function tests as being NON-AGP, we must succeed in altering current guidance on close range risk. This means the removal of the AGP list in favour of a risk mitigation following proper risk assessment including that pertaining to aerosol risk at close range irrespective of procedure. The objective of making all procedures safer is still the same but the means to that end have changed.
Instead, we will operate under the new title: Covid Airborne Protection Alliance (CAPA)”
The latest contribution to our campaign to improve PPE for all Health Care Workers has appeared in the prestigious Health Service Journal.
Read the full article: When it comes to staff safety during the pandemic, the buck stops with chief executives | (hsj.co.uk)
It links to a letter from Kevin Bampton, CEO of BOHS (British Occupational Hygiene Society) which has very close ties with HSE. - https://www.hsj.co.uk/download?ac=3052330
An important publication from the BMA is also referenced - bma-covid-19-reducing-infection-risk-to-staff-in-healthcare-settings-august-2021.pdf
These sources can be used to influence those Trusts still following PHE IPC guidance on AGPs and ignoring aerosol transmission.
Date: 13/08/21
GMB’s NHS Pay Consultation Ballot on the Government’s 3% has been open for a week. The ballot closes on Friday 17th September 2021. Have you had your say on your pay yet?
GMB believes that only a restorative increase of 15% would be sufficient to reward NHS workers and assist in the crucial task of retaining staff after the pandemic.
Your GMB National NHS Advisory Group and National Ambulance Committee are recommending you Vote to REJECT in the upcoming members ballot. 3% falls far short of what you deserve. Your VOTE is Crucial. This is your chance to Have Your Say on Your Pay. This is for you to say accept or reject to the 3%.
GMB are balloting members in a variety of ways across the regions – workplace, text, email and post. If you haven’t heard anything yet regarding how you will be able to vote, you can email the ballot contact in your region for details:
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GMB’s priority remains in keeping our members safe at work which is why throughout the Pandemic we have been regularly updating our Coronavirus Hub with all the information you need to keep yourself safe.
If you have concerns that you may have contracted Covid-19 in the workplace, please record your details on the GMB COVID-19 Risk Register.
It is essential that your membership details are up to date so that we can ensure you are kept up to date with advice and guidance relevant to you.
You can update your details by contacting your local GMB Representative or online.
Several GMB Regions are organising a series of demos outside hospitals and ambulance sites on Tuesday 17th August, between 12pm – 2pm.
These events will provide members who have not yet voted, the opportunity to cast their vote on the day.
Non members will also be able to join GMB and get a vote too!
Events confirmed in Southern Region will be at:
GMB Southern Region | NHS Day of Action on 17th August
There are more events to be confirmed across London and Birmingham & West Midlands Regions on the same day, with one already confirmed at Northampton General Hospital.
GMB Birmingham & West Midlands will also be doing a LIVE Facebook event on Wednesday 8th September 2021. Keep an eye on the Facebook page for more details: GMB West Midlands
Want to know if there is an event happening near you? Contact your local GMB Representative for more details.
From Monday 16 August, people who have had both doses of the Covid-19 vaccination or are aged under 18 will no longer be legally required to self-isolate if they are identified as a close contact of a positive COVID-19 case. The change was announced last month, as part of step 4 of the Government’s COVID-19 roadmap. With 75% of people having received both doses of the vaccine, the majority of adults will no longer need to self-isolate if they are contacts.
As of Monday, double jabbed individuals and under 18s who are identified as close contacts by NHS Test and Trace will be advised to take a PCR test as soon as possible to check if they have the virus and for variants of concern. People can order a PCR home test online or by calling 119, or going to a test site.
As double jabbed people identified as close contacts are still at risk of being infected, people are advised to consider other precautions such as wearing a face covering in enclosed spaces, and limit contact with other people, especially with anyone who is clinically extremely vulnerable. They will not be required to self-isolate while they wait for the results of the PCR test.
Anyone who tests positive following the PCR test will still be legally required to self-isolate, irrespective of their vaccination status or age in order to break onwards chains of transmission. Meanwhile anyone who develops COVID-19 symptoms should self-isolate and get a PCR test, and remain in isolation until the result comes back.
From Monday, most double vaccinated health and social care staff who are close contacts of cases will be able to routinely return to work, provided they have had a negative PCR test. Daily LFD tests will need to be taken for 10 days as a precaution. Staff working with clinically extremely vulnerable patients or service users will need a risk assessment to be carried out by a designated person in the workplace before they return to work.
This new guidance supersedes previous Public Health England (PHE) guidance and applies to all staff, including substantive clinical and non-clinical roles, bank staff, contractors and suppliers, and students, working in all facilities, settings and organisations delivering NHS care.
The following safeguards must be implemented for workers to safely attend work and be exempt from isolation:
If any of the above criteria cannot be met, or they have not had two doses of the vaccine, or they are living directly (same household) with a positive contact, they should continue to isolate in line with government guidance.
To support staff and to protect patients and services, NHS providers and primary care organisations, should ensure that:
Providing all of the qualifying criteria is met, the individual may be exempt from isolation and return to work. This exemption will also apply for outside of work, unlike the previous exemption.
The Government press release regarding this can be accessed at: Self-isolation removed for double jabbed close contacts from 16 August
Prerana Issar, NHS Chief People Officer and others, have written to system leaders regarding these changes. The letter can be accessed at: C1381-Updated-guidance-on-NHS-staff-and-student-self-isolation-and-return-to-work-following-COVID-19-contact.pdf
Government in England have introduced legislation that requires all staff working in adult residential social care to have received both doses of the Covid-19 vaccination. This becomes effective on 11th November and extends to all other professionals entering care homes to deliver services, other than in an emergency.
Therefore, NHS and ambulance workers who are required to perform part of their duties in care homes, will also be required to evidence that they are in receipt of both doses of the vaccine, unless medically exempt.
Guidance is due to be issued to system leaders so that they can begin to prepare to ensure services are not disrupted as a result.
There are a number of exemptions set out in the regulations. Exemptions relevant for NHS commissioned services include:
Medical exemption eligibility will reflect the Green Book on Immunisation against infectious disease (COVID-19: the green book, chapter 14a) and clinical advice from The Joint Committee of Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI).
Redeployment may need to be considered for affected staff choosing not to be vaccinated.
If you have any concerns regarding this, please speak to your local GMB Representative.
You can access GMB’s Vaccine Statement at: Vaccination | GMB
Date: 30/07/2021
Government have now made their announcement on what this year’s NHS pay increase will be. Not only is it almost four months late, it is also still a real terms pay cut of 3%. GMB will now be balloting all eligible GMB members.
The GMB pay claim as agreed by the NHS National Advisory Group and National Ambulance Committee was:
GMB believes that only a restorative increase of 15% would be sufficient to reward NHS workers and assist in the crucial task of retaining staff after the pandemic.
Your GMB National NHS Advisory Group and National Ambulance Committee are recommending you Vote to REJECT in the upcoming members ballot. 3% falls far short of what you deserve. Your VOTE is Crucial. This is your chance to Have Your Say on Your Pay. This is for you to say accept or reject to the 3%.
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Ballot Opens |
Friday 6th August 2021 |
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Ballot Closes |
Friday 17th September 2021 |
To ensure you receive your ballot paper, make sure that you are opted into receiving communications from GMB. You can update your details by contacting your local GMB Representative or online @ mygmb
Join the union for NHS staff today!
Check out the NHS Hub: We're campaigning for pay justice in our NHS!
Date: 19/07/2021
SELF-ISOLATION EXEMPTION
As Government stick to their ‘Freedom Day’ plans of easing all restrictions and mandatory mask wearing, Covid-19 cases continue to rise, and hospitals and ambulance services continue to face severe demand pressures. Chronic staffing shortages prior to the Pandemic are being made worse as absences increase due to fatigue, exhaustion, stress and anxiety and the thought of another wave of Covid-19, and the infamous ping of the Covid App.
The latest ill thought through response to this is to exempt health and social care workers for self-isolation guidance to allow them to attend work – and work only.
The latest guidance issued overnight, exempts health and social care workers from self-isolation so that they can attend work. However, they must go straight home after their shift, as the exemption doesn’t apply to their personal life such as going to the supermarket or picking children up from school.
The guidance also requires daily testing of double vaccinated staff, the continued wearing of PPE – which GMB believes still does not offer the highest level of protection we believe our members need.
The guidance also requires for these workers not to be allowed to work with clinically vulnerable people, which is possibly most residents in care homes and patients who are ill in hospital.
GMB members are furious about this latest display of complete disregard for their health and safety. GMB will be working with local reps and members to ensure that their health and safety is a priority.
You can read GMBs press statement at: Health and social care workers self-isolation exemption 'one rule for them, one rule for us' | GMB
If you have concerns, please speak direct to your local GMB Representative.
NHS PATIENTS, STAFF & VISITORS MUST CONTINUE TO WAER FACE COVERINGS IN HEALTHCARE SETTINGS
Government has confirmed that whilst Covid-19 restrictions will end in many settings in England today, Public Health England’s Infection, Prevention and Control Guidelines and Hospital Visiting Guidance will remain in place for staff and visitors across all health services.
Staff, patients and visitors will also be expected to continue to follow social distancing rules when visiting any care setting as well as using face coverings, masks and other Personal Protective Equipment.
These principles apply to all health settings, including those in the independent / private sector e.g. hospital, GP, dentist, pharmacy, etc.
GMB supports this position. We have also issued a wider joint statement with organisations on the AGP Alliance. You can read this at: Don’t abandon masks and social distancing yet, health professionals urge the public - British Occupational Hygiene Society (BOHS)
You can read the NHS wide press statement on this at: NHS England » NHS Patients, staff and visitors must continue to wear face coverings in healthcare settings
FLU VACCINATION
Government have now published their annual national flu immunisation programme plan.
Health and social care workers are encouraged to be vaccinated. You can read full details about this, including information on considerations being given into how this plan will work alongside the Covid-19 vaccination programme and possible boosters.
National flu immunisation programme 2021 to 2022 letter - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
KEEPING SAFE AT WORK
GMB’s priority remains in keeping our members safe at work which is why throughout the Pandemic we have been regularly updating our Coronavirus Hub with all the information you need to keep yourself safe.
If you have concerns that you may have contracted Covid-19 in the workplace, please record your details on the GMB COVID-19 Risk Register.
ARE YOUR CONTACT DETAILS CORRECT?
It is essential that your membership details are up to date so that we can ensure you are kept up to date with advice and guidance relevant to you.
You can update your details by contacting your local GMB Representative or online.
Not a GMB Member? Join the union for NHS staff today
Would you like more information in becoming a GMB Representative in your Workplace? Click ‘Want to get more involved’ on the NHS dedicated campaign page We're campaigning for pay justice in our NHS
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Date: 14/07/2021
We are still waiting for the Government’s announcement on the pay award for NHS workers. The Pay Review Body (PRB) have made their recommendations to Government. We will not know what recommendation has been made by the PRB until it is published, usually at the same time as the Government’s announcement on what the pay award will be.
It is expected that Government will make their statement on pay ahead of Parliament breaking for Summer recess on 22nd July 2021.
Once the Government’s announcement on pay has been made, your GMB National NHS Advisory Group and National Ambulance Committee will meet to discuss the pay award and determine GMBs position and any recommendation we will make with regards the pay award. An update will then be issued to members which will outline that position and give details of the upcoming ballot.
It is important to note at this stage, that this is not a negotiation between Government, NHS Employers and recognised Unions. This pay award has been made by Government using the NHS Pay Review Body process. This mechanism does not require the assent of trade unions before implementation. However, GMB will still be balloting all members on the pay award to determine whether you think it is a reasonable and acceptable offer. This will be your chance to have your say on your pay.
What we do know for sure at this time, is that we really do not have any time to waste in ensuring we are ballot and action ready. We are facing a ballot period over the summer in England and it is essential that we have the correct contact and employment details for each and every one of our GMB members that will be impacted by the pay award. GMB is committed to giving all members a vote, so to ensure you have your say on your pay, please make sure we have the correct contact details for you.
Make sure that you are opted into receiving communications from GMB.
You can update your details by contacting your local GMB Representative or online using the GMB website at https://gmb.org.uk/mygmb-edit
As we wait to hear what the Government intend to award for this year’s pay, here is a reminder of the GMB Claim:
GMB Union believes that pay justice in the form of a restorative increase to replace lost real time earnings over the last decade is essential to reward and retain all NHS key workers.
If you want more details you can access them via the Reps Resources section of the GMB NHS Pay Campaign Hub - Rep resources | GMB
GMB will continue to fight for pay justice for our members, but we need your help to do so.
If you are not in the GMB, join.
Become an activist.
Spread the word that this time NHS workers are fighting back.
Not a GMB member?
Join the union for NHS staff today and get involved!
A GMB member already?
Get involved!
Date: 08/07/2021
At the start of the Pandemic, temporary workforce guidance was issued by the Department of Health & Social Care (DHSC). One part of this guidance was enhanced provisions for ‘Covid-19 Sick Pay’. This included:
These provisions remain in place. However, there are a number of staff across the NHS who are still suffering with symptoms as a result of contracting covid. Long covid is impacting people differently and some staff may be off work long term, others however, may be experiencing intermittent symptoms and absences.
New guidance has now been published to encourage employers to support staff suffering from long covid is a supportive and sensitive manner.
You can access the full guidance via the NHS employers website - Joint statements and papers - NHS Employers
There are also many other resources regarding long covid which may be of interest:
Revised guidance for the asymptomatic testing of staff has now been published alongside new Frequently Asked Questions.
From July 2021 all NHS staff will move to a new system where they will be able to order their own LFD testing kits from www.gov.uk/order-coronavirus-rapid-lateral-flow-tests
The testing kits will enable staff to carry out regular testing for COVID-19 at home. The test kits provided via the new system may be different type, it is important that staff familiarise themselves with the tests and the instruction leaflet each time they receive a new box. This move will not only make best use of LFDs currently available to Test and Trace but will also provide a greater level of assurance by organisation that devices are routinely being ordered and used.
The statutory requirement to report all test results has not changed and staff must report all results in line with their organisation’s policy Before moving to the new system trusts are to use up their existing stock of Innova 25s and should continue to provide staff with boxes until they have run out.
The new guidance can be accessed at: Report template - NHSI website (england.nhs.uk)
FAQs for staff working in NHS Trusts can be accessed at: index.php (hiowccgpartnership.nhs.uk)
Government have made announcements regarding ‘Freedom Day’ on the 19th July – a date when mask wearing will become personal choice for members of the public.
We have now been informed that healthcare setting will be excluded from this. So, members of the public will still be expected to wear masks in healthcare settings. Government have advised that they need to do more communications on this as that message isn’t clear.
GMB continues to campaign for increased levels of PPE to be made available for all health and social care workers working with confirmed or suspected Covid-19 patients. We also continue to work with other health organisations and unions as a part of the AGP Alliance to pursue this aim.
In June, representatives from the AGP Alliance met with the DHSC, PHE and NHSEI regarding the campaign. All parties have committed to continuing to meet to discuss concerns and review evidence as it emerges.
Updates will continue to be shared via this bulletin.
You may find the recently published study by Addenbrookes Hospital interesting - https://www.cam.ac.uk/research/news/upgrading-ppe-for-staff-working-on-covid-19-wards-cut-hospital-acquired-infections-dramatically
GMB’s priority remains in keeping our members safe at work which is why throughout the Pandemic we have been regularly updating our Coronavirus Hub with all the information you need to keep yourself safe.
You can also access NHS & Ambulance Service specific Frequently Asked Questions
If you have concerns that you may have contracted Covid-19 in the workplace, please record your details on the GMB COVID-19 Risk Register.
It is essential that your membership details are up to date so that we can ensure you are kept up to date with advice and guidance relevant to you.
You can update your details by contacting your local GMB Representative or online.
Not a GMB Member? Join the union for NHS staff today
Would you like more information in becoming a GMB Representative in your Workplace? Click ‘Want to get more involved’ on the NHS dedicated campaign page We're campaigning for pay justice in our NHS
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Date: 18/06/2021
The Covid-19 vaccination programme in England continues to be working well. Data received on 15th June, highlighted that over 60.5 million vaccine doses have been administered in six months and confidence remains in how effective they are.
95% of healthcare staff have received their first dose of the vaccine and over 80% have received their second dose. Take up has also increased amongst younger women and people from Black Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, but work does still continue within communities to address vaccine hesitancy.
Due to concerns regarding the Delta variant, efforts are being made to try to bring forward second doses to an earlier date thank initially scheduled, as the first dose does help with transmissibility, but second doses are still crucial for protection.
Considerations are still being given as to what the Booster vaccine and programme will look like, but it is expected that JCVI will prioritise health and social care workers.
More support has been provided to Primary Care to assist them in delivering the vaccine at the scale and pace needed.
Considerations are also being given to how this year’s flu vaccination programme will align with the Covid-19 vaccination programme and potential Boosters.
It has been confirmed to unions that the Portal is still available for health and social care workers to use to book their vaccination and there are not any suggestions that it will be removed. Most people are being picked up via the main routes but this will remain as an additional route for staff to access vaccines.
Using the National Booking Service is quick and simple. You can do it online at nhs.uk/CovidVaccination, or by calling 119 if you can’t use the internet.
The Government’s consultation on mandatory Covid-19 vaccinations for social care workers has now closed and disappointingly Ministers have decided to make Covid-19 vaccinations mandatory for some of the social care workforce.
GMB union supports vaccinations. However, we do not support the forcing of vaccinations on health and social care workers. We believe there is a lot more that Government could do to understand vaccine hesitancy amongst the social care workforce and put more education and measures in place to address concerns. Instead, some social care workers are facing dismissal from employment in 16 weeks if they are not vaccinated (except for those with specified medical exemptions).
You can read our response to the announcement, where we called it an ‘Ill thought through’ plan to mandate vaccinations could lead to care staff ‘exodus’
Government have now also stated that they intend to launch a consultation on extending mandatory vaccinations to the healthcare workforce and to also include the flu vaccination. Once the consultation is launched, GMBs National NHS Advisory Group and National Ambulance Committee will consider before determining how we will respond.
You can read GMBs statement on vaccinations at: Vaccination
Date: 17/06/2021
Negotiations to attempt to resolve the long-standing issue of overtime and additional hours not being included in annual leave payments concluded at the end of March 2021. Agreement was reached on a corrective settlement going back two financial years. However, agreement was not reached on how future calculations would be made and employers committed to resolving this as soon as possible. This bulletin is intended to give GMB members an update on all outstanding issues.
Full details, including a Frequently Asked Questions document can be accessed by the NHS Employers website at: Overtime payments and pay during annual leave - NHS Employers
To be eligible, an individual must have worked and been paid for overtime or additional hours, in four or more months of one, or both, of financial years April 2019 – March 2020, and April 2020 – March 2021.
A corrective settlement payment will be offered by local employers to eligible individuals. This will be 16% of the overtime or additional hours payments they received in one, or both of the financial years. It is expected that this payment will be made by local employers by September 2021. An Equality Impact Assessment has been undertaken which local employers need to be mindful of when identifying and paying eligible individuals - link below.
Since agreement was reached, employers have been working to calculate payment for eligible staff. These corrective payments should be made to all eligible staff by 30th September 2021. You should be contacted by your employer if you are eligible for a corrective settlement payment. If you have not been contacted and believe you are eligible, please raise this direct with your employer and speak to your GMB representative for support if required.
Unions Solicitors are still in negotiations with employer solicitors on outstanding legal claims. If you have a claim lodged with the union solicitors, you should continue to seek legal advice and support direct from the solicitors.
Attention is now needed by local employers to fix the issue moving forwards, from 1st April 2021. They must ensure that holiday pay is inclusive of overtime and additional hours.
The solution for the forward fix however has been complicated by several different factors, including the national Electronic Staff Records (ESR) system and local payroll methods of calculating holiday pay. For this reason, a national fix may be some time coming. In the meantime, local employers should be discussing their plans for a local solution with local GMB Representatives to ensure that underpayments do not reoccur.
Local partnerships should consider the equality analysis undertaken by the Department of Health and Social Care and discuss how to ensure local solutions are free from any discrimination. The analysis suggests potential areas that employers need to consider when implementing the framework and should also apply to any future solutions.
NHS holiday pay for voluntary overtime: equalities impact assessment - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
We are expecting the Pay Review Body to make their report and recommendations to Government in the next few days. Currently, we do not expect to know the details of their report or recommendations until the Government in England make their statement on what the NHS pay award will be. It is expected that Government will make their statement on pay ahead of Parliament breaking for Summer on 22nd July 2021.
Once the Government’s statement on pay has been made, your GMB National NHS Advisory Group and National Ambulance Committee will meet to discuss the pay award and determine GMBs position. An update will then be issued to members which will outline that position and give details of the upcoming ballot.
What we do know for sure, is that we really do not have any time to waste now in ensuring we are ballot and action ready. We are facing a ballot period over the summer in England and it is essential that we have the correct contact and employment details for each and every one of our GMB members that will be impacted by the pay award. GMB is committed to giving all members a vote, so to ensure you have your say on your pay, please make sure we have the correct contact details for you.
Make sure that you are opted into receiving communications from GMB.
You can update your details by contacting your local GMB Representative or online at gmb.org.uk/mygmb-edit
As we wait to hear what the PRB are recommending and what the Government will be awarding, here’s a reminder of the GMB Claim.
GMB Union believes that pay justice in the form of a restorative increase to replace lost real time earnings over the last decade is essential to reward and retain all NHS key workers.
If you want to read more details you can do so via the Reps Resources section of the GMB NHS Pay Campaign Hub - Rep resources
GMB is proud to be supporting the National Day of Local Protests being organised by Health Campaigns Together, Keep Our NHS Public, NHS Workers Say No and NHS Staff Voices. The theme this year is Pay Justice, Patient Safety and an End to Privatisation.
There are lots of events already organised across England, Wales and Scotland and we want all of our members to get involved. We would love to see lots of GMB members and activists organising pay campaign activities at your workplaces and also supporting local protests and events.
Do you want to organise something at your workplace? Would you like to link up with local campaign groups? Send an email to NHS@gmb.org.uk and we will support you however you need us. This is your campaign!
The full list of organised events so far can be access via the Keep Our NHS Public website - Find your nearest | NHS Anniversary Protests 2021 – Keep Our NHS Public
You can also check out the dedicated Facebook Event Page for the latest information - NHS Anniversary Protests Nationwide
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Date: 11/06/2021
GMB continues to work with other health organisations and unions as a part of the AGP Alliance to call for increased levels of PPE for health and social care workers.
We have now submitted evidence into the Public Accounts Committee on initial lessons from the Government’s response to the Covid-19 Pandemic.
Read the submission to the Public Accounts committee.
The meeting to discuss the concerns has also now taken place with the Department of Health & Social Care, Public Health England and NHSEI. Please see below statement from the AGP Alliance.
Representatives from over 20 healthcare organisations, including the AGP alliance* met with DHSC, IPC, NHSEI and PHE on 3 June 2021 to press the Government to change its UK Infection Prevention Control Guidance to reflect short and long-range airborne transmission of COVID-19 and to recognise the need to provide frontline healthcare workers with enhanced PPE.
A presentation was made to the meeting delegates.
Whilst welcoming the Government’s proposal to have further stakeholder meetings, the alliance was both surprised and disappointed that new, compelling scientific evidence and changes to guidance in the US and Europe were not considered strong enough reasons to change their guidance at this time.
The alliance still believes that immediate changes to the guidance are essential. They should not be delayed.
The new Delta variant and recent surges in COVID-19 positive cases make the case urgent for healthcare workers to be fully protected and provided with FFP3 masks when seeing patients.
* Association for Respiratory Technology & Physiology; BAPEN; British Association of Stroke Physicians; British Dietetic Association; British Society of Gastroenterology; Chartered Society of Physiotherapy; College of Paramedics; Confederation of British Surgery; Doctors Association UK; Fresh Air NHS; GMB Union; Hospital Consultants and Specialists Association; Med Supply Drive; National Nurses Nutrition Group; Queen’s Nursing Institute Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists; Trident HS; Unite the Union.
Public Health England has published an update to the IPC Guidance agreed by the UK’s four chief medical and nursing officers.
Amendments have been made to strengthen existing messaging and provide further advice where needed, including updates on the hierarchy of controls, clarity over the use of valved respirators, and highlighting the need to protect those previously shielding and who are considered clinically extremely vulnerable from COVID-19. Definitions and supporting resources have been added to support risk assessment based on the hierarchy of controls.
A full list of changes to the previous version are listed on page 8 of the guidance. Following continued extensive clinical and scientific review, no changes to the recommendations, including PPE, have been made in response to the new variant strains at this stage, however this position remains under constant review.
Whilst this guidance seeks to ensure a consistent and resilient UK wide approach, some differences in operational details and organisational responsibilities may apply in Northern Ireland, England, Wales and Scotland.
All NHS organisations should ensure reliable application of all IPC recommendations and assurance on adherence, that PPE is available and in supply, and that all staff training is up to date.
COVID-19: infection prevention and control (IPC) Guidance
If you work in health and social care and have paid the Immigration Health Surcharge (or it was paid for you and you are now repaying it to an employer), you may be able to claim your money back from HM Government.
Reimbursements are made on a 6-monthly basis in arrears, provided you have worked for an average of at least 16 hours per week over the full period.
Applications are now being processed for the period 1 October 2020 to 31 March 2021, though it is possible to backdate a claim to 31 March 2020 if you haven’t already applied.
You must have worked for at least 16 hours per week during that period, but this can be in more than one eligible job. Reimbursement payments are processed in six-month instalments in arrears.
Eligible applicants can now:
Apply for your immigration health surcharge reimbursement
Immigration health surcharge: applying for reimbursement
Immigration Health Surcharge Research
The NHS BSA are currently working on a piece of research around the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is paid as part of a UK Immigration visa application.
What the research is about
Eligible individuals who have been working in the health and care sector for on average 16 hours per week starting from or after the 31st March 2020 and have paid their IHS, will be able to apply for a reimbursement. We’d like to talk to people who feel they may be eligible for a reimbursement. The research will help us to design a service that meets the needs of the people using it.
What the research involves
Participants will be testing out the online service or a prototype that will help to support people to get a reimbursement. We’d like to get your feedback on what it was like to use and how we could improve it. We may also be conducting short interviews. The research session will take no longer than 1 hour and will be done remotely.
Participants will receive a gift voucher for taking part in this research.
Who can take part
We’d like to talk to a wide range of people in different job roles in the health (NHS) and social care sector e.g. health assistants, care home managers, receptionists or cleaners.
You’ll be over 18 and:
How to take part
If you’d like to find out more about this research or would like to take part, email nhsbsa.ihs-research@nhs.net
GMB’s priority remains in keeping our members safe at work which is why throughout the Pandemic we have been regularly updating our Coronavirus Hub with all the information you need to keep yourself safe.
You can also access NHS & Ambulance Service specific Frequently Asked Questions
If you have concerns that you may have contracted Covid-19 in the workplace, please record your details on the GMB COVID-19 Risk Register.
It is essential that your membership details are up to date so that we can ensure you are kept up to date with advice and guidance relevant to you.
You can update your details by contacting your local GMB Representative or online.
It will be many months before we see a return to any form of ‘normality’. Covid-19 will still present a danger to health care workers and the people you care for. As a result, it means that your GMB Union Representatives may continue to have difficulties visiting you in your workplaces.
However, we want you to know that we are still here. We are considering a variety of ways that we can get information to you and engage with you on your issues in the workplace. One way to do this is to arrange a virtual online meeting for your workplace.
If you would like to book one of these meetings please contact your local GMB representative or email NHS@gmb.org.uk
Not a GMB Member? Join the union for NHS staff today
Would you like more information in becoming a GMB Representative in your Workplace? Click ‘Want to get more involved’ on the NHS dedicated campaign page We're campaigning for pay justice in our NHS
Follow and like our Facebook Page
Follow us on Twitter - @GMBNHS
Date: 28/05/2021
51.6 million doses of the Covid-19 vaccinations have been administered in England. Currently vaccines are being offered to 32-year-olds (Cohort 11) and efforts continue on encouraging people to have their second doses.
The variant identified in India is causing concerns and those that are being admitted into hospital with it, are usually those who have not had the vaccine. The offer of a vaccine remains open. If you have been offered the vaccine and previously refused, you can still come forward now and have your vaccination.
Advice regarding second doses of the vaccine have now changed. Individuals in Cohorts 1-9, which includes health and social care workers, are now advised to have their second doses within 8-9 weeks of their first, rather than 11-12 weeks as initially stated. For people in Cohorts 10+, it is still advised that 11-12 weeks will suffice.
An FAQ has been produced on second doses and can be accessed at: C1254-covid-19-vaccination-programme-faqs-on-second-dose-v2.pdf (england.nhs.uk)
GMB continues to work with other health organisations and unions as a part of the AGP Alliance to call for increased levels of PPE for health and social care workers.
The meeting to discuss the concerns has been scheduled with the Department of Health & Social Care, Public Health England and NHSEI for 3rd June 2021.
We will continue to push for greater protections for frontline workers to try to reduce morbidity and mortality from Covid-19. It is now widely accepted that there are increased risks due to aerosol transmission and the implications of insufficient PPE and ventilation.
Throughout the Pandemic, there have been many changes made to IPC Guidance in health and social care settings. Links to the current setting specific guidance can now all be accessed in one place.
This includes guidance on PPE and ventilation, primary and secondary care, care homes and social care, community and home care, ambulance and first responders.
You can access this online at: covid-19-compendium-of-guidance-and-information-v7.pdf (england.nhs.uk)
Lateral flow testing of asymptomatic staff has now been rolled out to those in the independent sector. Full guidance and FAQs can be accessed at: Coronavirus » Standard operating procedure and frequently asked questions: Rollout of lateral flow devices for asymptomatic staff testing for COVID-19 in the independent sector (england.nhs.uk)
New guidance has been published which sets standards for NHS Trusts to provide managed quarantine accommodation for internationally recruited nurses who are taking up immediate employment in the NHS in England and who are travelling through red-list countries. These nurses will be exempt from the red-list hotel managed quarantine if compliant NHS Trust arranged accommodation can be used for the duration of the quarantine period. Trusts may choose not to provide accommodation and instead fund the payment of the stay in the red-list managed hotels.
The exemption does not cover nurses already employed by the NHS or nurses returning from abroad for any other reason (e.g. holiday or visiting family).
The full guidance can be accessed at: Quarantine arrangements for exempt nurses arriving from overseas - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
The list of red-list of countries is subject to regular amendment.
At the start of the Pandemic, GMB and other unions called on Ministers to waive on street and in bay car parking charges for health and social care workers, to ensure they were able to travel to and from work in as safe an environment as possible.
With infection rates being on the rise once more, the Pandemic is far from over for our key workers in health and social care.
It is therefore a disgrace, that Government have seen it as being an appropriate time to amend the guidance with an end date of 21st June 2021, without any consultation with or notification to trade unions.
GMB has written to the Secretary of State Matt Hancock, calling for his urgent intervention to reveres this outrageous decision.
You can read a copy of the letter below.
You can read a copy of our press statement at: Government u-turn on free parking for NHS and social care workers 'beyond belief' | GMB
You can read the government guidance at: Coronavirus (COVID-19): health, care and volunteer workers parking pass and concessions - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Date: 13/05/2021
GMB continues to work with many other health unions and organisations as part of the AGP Alliance in the campaign for increased levels of PPE for our health and social care members. Despite emerging evidence regarding the increased risk of airborne transmission of Covid-19, government are still stating that PPE guidance does not need to change.
We are currently waiting for a meeting to be scheduled between professionals from the AGP Alliance and Public Health, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) and NHS colleagues. This has been delayed due to elections in Wales and Scotland, but it is hoped a date will be agreed later this week.
Further information on this issue which may be of interest can be accessed at:
The TUC have launched a survey looking into the experiences of people in work with Long Covid. You can complete the survey at: Long Covid at work Survey.
As more people are vaccinated and lockdown restrictions continue to ease, it is essential that workplaces remain safe for workers. Masks, Air and Distance remain crucial in keeping you safe at work. Face masks, ventilation and social distancing rules should continue to be followed and employers should continue to work with GMB Health and Safety Representatives to review risk assessments.
If you have any concerns about this, please speak to your local GMB Representative.
GMB’s priority remains in keeping our members safe at work which is why throughout the Pandemic we have been regularly updating our Coronavirus Hub with all the information you need to keep yourself safe.
You can also access NHS & Ambulance Service specific Frequently Asked Questions
If you have concerns that you may have contracted Covid-19 in the workplace, please record your details on the GMB COVID-19 Risk Register.
It is essential that your membership details are up to date so that we can ensure you are kept up to date with advice and guidance relevant to you.
You can update your details by contacting your local GMB Representative or online.
It will be many months before we see a return to any form of ‘normality’. Covid-19 will still present a danger to health care workers and the people you care for. As a result, it means that your GMB Union Representatives may continue to have difficulties visiting you in your workplaces.
However, we want you to know that we are still here. We are considering a variety of ways that we can get information to you and engage with you on your issues in the workplace. One way to do this is to arrange a virtual online meeting for your workplace.
If you would like to book one of these meetings please contact your local GMB representative or email NHS@gmb.org.uk
Not a GMB Member? Join the union for NHS staff today
Would you like more information in becoming a GMB Representative in your Workplace? Click ‘Want to get more involved’ on the NHS dedicated campaign page We're campaigning for pay justice in our NHS
Follow and like our Facebook Page
Follow us on Twitter - @GMBNHS
Date: 12/05/2021
The results are in and GMB members have spoken. GMB have REJECTED the Scottish Government’s Pay Offer by a majority of 82%. A fantastic campaign has been run by the GMB Reps and Officers to ensure members had their say on pay. 49% of eligible members used their vote. Government has now been notified of GMBs position on pay and further details will emerge in the next few days as to the next stages in the campaign for pay justice.
The 49% turnout in the Scotland Pay Ballot highlights to us that there are still many GMB members that are choosing not to use their vote and have their say on pay. If we are serious about winning the campaign for pay justice in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, we must do all we can now to ensure all members are engaged with the campaign and understand the importance of using their vote.
Every conversation, in every workplace is crucial. Every pay campaign activity is crucial – whether that’s handing a campaign flyer to a colleague, recruiting a friend, placing information on the noticeboard, organising a workplace meeting or a protest. It all counts. Every member can do something to ensure that GMB are not only ballot ready, but that we are also action ready.
That’s why, our next Learn to Win Event is a must for All NHS Workers. And, we don’t just want you to attend, we want you to bring your work colleagues too – GMB members and non-union members. It is essential that we come together as one collective voice, with a shared plan of action, if we are going to win NHS workers the Pay Justice you deserve.
GMB NHS Pay 15 – Learn to Win, Part 2
Tuesday 25th May, 6pm
So, register today – and now share the link with your colleagues and ask them to register too. Send it via text, what’s app, facebook, twitter, post it note!
The second round of GMB Reps Taster Sessions for Activists in the NHS are well underway. The sessions are for people who are keen to be more active in the campaign, not just on pay, but for all future campaigns.
There are still two sessions left to go and it’s not too late to join if you’re interested. They run via Zoom between 7pm – 9pm on:
If you want to register your interest in attending the taster sessions please email your name, membership number (if you know it), workplace and job title to NHS@gmb.org.uk
The Rally was a huge success and has so far had almost 4,000 views online. We heard from inspiring GMB and Unite members and activists across England, Wales and Northern Ireland, as well as Rehana Azam (GMB National Secretary), Rachel Harrison (GMB National Officer) and Colenzo Jarrett-Thorpe (Unite National Officer).
If you haven’t seen it yet you can watch it back via the GMB Union NHS Workers Facebook Page.
At GMB, we celebrate the NHS’s Birthday every year. This year we are proud to support the National Day of Local Protests being organised by Health Campaigns Together, Keep Our NHS Public, NHS Workers Say No and NHS Staff Voices. The theme this year is Pay Justice, Patient Safety and an End to Privatisation.
There are already events being organised from Cornwall to Glasgow and we want all of our members to get involved. We would love to see lots of GMB members and activists organising pay campaign activities at your workplaces and also supporting local protests and events.
More details will follow in the coming weeks, but in the meantime, get thinking about what you want to do on the day. Do you want to organise something at your workplace? Would you like to link up with local campaign groups? Send an email to NHS@gmb.org.uk and we will support you however you need us. This is your campaign!
You can also check out the dedicated Facebook Event Page for the latest information - NHS Anniversary Protests Nationwide
GMB will continue to fight for pay justice for our members, but we need your help to do so.
If you are not in the GMB, join.
Become an activist.
Spread the word that this time NHS workers are fighting back.
Not a GMB member?
A GMB member already?
Get involved!
Don’t a have a GMB Representative?
Become one!
Register your interest via the website campaign page.
Unsure about what the role of a GMB NHS Representative involves? Register your interest in our NHS Representative Taster Sessions – email your contact details to NHS@gmb.org.uk
A GMB Representative already?
Are your contact details correct?
It is essential that your membership details are up to date so that we can ensure you are kept up to date with developments in the pay campaign and receive a ballot paper when they are issued.
Make sure that you are opted into receiving communications from GMB.
You can update your details by contacting your local GMB Representative or online.
Date: 28/04/2021
The national booking self referral service for health and social care workers has now been reinstated, after temporarily being suspended earlier this month.
Eligible workers can book their Covid-19 Vaccination by calling 119 or online at www.nhs.uk/covid-vaccination
Eligibility checks and ID requirements remain in place and are detailed below.
When the individual arrives for their appointment
They should verbally declare to the person at the vaccination site that is booking them in that:
The person should also show further proof of employment as a health or social care worker such as one of the following:
The individual should be informed, by the person recoding their vaccination, that it will be recorded that they are a health or social care worker.
Who are eligible frontline social care or health care workers in England?
People that have direct contact with patients, clients or service users at higher risk from coronavirus (COVID-19).
Health workers:
The following are, however, not eligible within this priority group as defined by the JCVI:
within the context of the JCVI priority cohorts 1-9 (children under 16 who do
GMB’s priority remains in keeping our members safe at work which is why throughout the Pandemic we have been regularly updating our Coronavirus Hub with all the information you need to keep yourself safe.
You can also access NHS & Ambulance Service specific Frequently Asked Questions
If you have concerns that you may have contracted Covid-19 in the workplace, please record your details on the GMB COVID-19 Risk Register.
It is essential that your membership details are up to date so that we can ensure you are kept up to date with advice and guidance relevant to you.
You can update your details by contacting your local GMB Representative or online.
It will be many months before we see a return to any form of ‘normality’. Covid-19 will still present a danger to health care workers and the people you care for. As a result, it means that your GMB Union Representatives may continue to have difficulties visiting you in your workplaces.
However, we want you to know that we are still here. We are considering a variety of ways that we can get information to you and engage with you on your issues in the workplace. One way to do this is to arrange a virtual online meeting for your workplace.
If you would like to book one of these meetings please contact your local GMB representative or email NHS@gmb.org.uk
Not a GMB Member? Join the union for NHS staff today
Would you like more information in becoming a GMB Representative in your Workplace? Click ‘Want to get more involved’ on the NHS dedicated campaign page We're campaigning for pay justice in our NHS
Follow and like our Facebook Page
Follow us on Twitter - @GMBNHS
Date: 23/04/21
Vaccination Programme
The vaccination programme continues with reports that uptake amongst NHS staff is now above 90% across England. However, uptake is lower in some areas. London has been a particular problem area but staff uptake is now increasing slowly.
Mandatory Vaccination
GMB has concerns regarding the Government’s announcement of mandatory vaccination for adult social care home workers. The proposals to enshrine this in legislation also make reference to it being extended other professionals who enter adult care homes, such as NHS staff. GMB will be making a submission into this consultation on behalf of our members.
There have already been some reports of local NHS Trusts looking to also make covid vaccination mandatory for their health staff. Union concerns on this issue have been reported to NHSEI who have confirmed that this should not be happening and to report any cases where Trusts are looking to do this. The Department of Health and Social Care have confirmed they are still keen to encourage rather than mandating healthcare staff.
Vaccination Guidance
There have recently been some changes made to guidance regarding vaccinations which may affect GMB members working in social care. These are:
Lateral flow testing is now very widespread across health and social care, as well as across communities and other workplaces.
NHS staff are being reminded to report their negative test results as all data is used to monitor covid across the whole of the population.
At the start of the Pandemic instructions were given to NHS Trusts to ensure they provided free care parking for staff for the duration of the Pandemic. This was also confirmed in the NHS People Plan.
A reminder of this commitment had been issued to Trusts with instructions that they should continue to provide it. You can read the letter at: C1164-Patient-car-parking-23-March-2021.pdf (england.nhs.uk)
Special Covid-19 terms and conditions still remain in place, including the provision of full sick pay for Covid-19 related absences.
You can access all of the Covid-19 terms and conditions advice and guidance at: Staff terms and conditions - NHS Employers
The Health & Safety Executive have issued guidance and ventilations and air conditioning during the Coronavirus Pandemic. It outlines the duty placed on employers as well as giving advice on how to improve ventilation.
You can read the guidance at: Ventilation and air conditioning during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic (hse.gov.uk)
Date: 16/04/2021
This week, Government launched their consultation on the mandatory vaccination of adult social care home workers.
It is proposed that legislation is amended to make it compulsory for all workers in adult social care homes caring for at least one person over the age of 65 to be vaccinated against Covid-19. GMB is clear that we support and encourage our members to be vaccinated but there may be reasons why an individual chooses not to be. We will be responding to the consultation in the coming weeks.
A part of the consultation refers to whether this policy will also be extended to other professionals who enter the care home – including NHS and Local Government workers. Although Government are not yet proposing mandatory vaccination for all NHS and Local Government workers, it may be that if this proposal goes ahead in Social Care, it will also follow into other sectors afterwards.
GMB will continue to represent the views of our members and will keep you updated as this develops.
Read GMB's vaccination statement
GMB's respnse to care worker mandatory vaccinations.
GMB continues to campaign for greater levels of protection for health and social care workers, specifically in terms of calling for access to higher levels of PPE. We also continue to raise concerns regarding airborne transmission and ventilation, specifically for those working in ambulances.
GMB continue to work with the AGP Alliance which is made up of some other health unions and organisations raising concerns over PPE, airborne transmission and ventilation. A letter was sent to the Chief Medical Officer regarding our concerns and a meeting is scheduled for 22nd April 2021 as a result with representatives from the AGP Alliance, Department of Health & Social Care, NHS and Public Health England.
MedSupplyDrive UK is a UK-based charity formed to protect frontline healthcare workers during this coronavirus pandemic and is supporting the work of the AGP Alliance. It is running a survey on respirator masks,
Free one year visa extensions have now been granted to eligible overseas health and care workers whose visas were due to expire before 1st October 2021.
The extension covers all healthcare professionals working in the NHS and the independent health and care sector. Visas will be extended for a year, free of all fees and charges, including the Immigration Health Surcharge.
Eligible individuals will need to complete an online form to verify their identity and then employers will be asked to confirm their eligibility.
Visit .gov website to apply for the Health and Care Worker Visa
GMB’s priority remains in keeping our members safe at work which is why throughout the Pandemic we have been regularly updating our Coronavirus Hub with all the information you need to keep yourself safe.
You can also access NHS & Ambulance Service specific Frequently Asked Questions
If you have concerns that you may have contracted Covid-19 in the workplace, please record your details on the GMB COVID-19 Risk Register.
It is essential that your membership details are up to date so that we can ensure you are kept up to date with advice and guidance relevant to you.
You can update your details by contacting your local GMB Representative or online.
It will be many months before we see a return to any form of ‘normality’. Covid-19 will still present a danger to health care workers and the people you care for. As a result, it means that your GMB Union Representatives may continue to have difficulties visiting you in your workplaces.
However, we want you to know that we are still here. We are considering a variety of ways that we can get information to you and engage with you on your issues in the workplace. One way to do this is to arrange a virtual online meeting for your workplace.
If you would like to book one of these meetings please contact your local GMB representative or email NHS@gmb.org.uk
Not a GMB Member? Join the union for NHS staff today
Would you like more information in becoming a GMB Representative in your Workplace? Click ‘Want to get more involved’ on the NHS dedicated campaign page We're campaigning for pay justice in our NHS
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Date: 13/04/2021
As a result of pay negotiations between trade unions and Scottish Government, an offer on pay for NHS workers in Scotland has now been made. The offer if accepted will be backdated to the 1st December 2020 and includes the 1% already paid to workers. The offer is:
Bands 1-3 £1,009
Bands 4-7 4%
Bands 8a-8c 2%
Bands 8d+ £800
The GMB Scotland pay ballot opened on 12th April and closes on 5th May. GMB Scotland’s NHS/Ambulance Committee are recommending REJECTION. This is due to the offer falling way short of giving our members pay justice and the restorative increase of 15% which we have been calling for.
All unions in Scotland are balloting their members in line with their own organisational processes and no union will declare their results until all the unions ballots have closed. A meeting has been scheduled for 12th May 2021 for Scottish Unions to meet and discuss the outcomes of their ballots.
Whilst we await the result, if you use social media, please visit the pages on Facebook and Twitter and offer your support to our colleagues in Scotland. What happens in Scotland will have an impact on what happens in England, Wales and Northern Ireland also.
The GMB NHS Activists Learn to Win event on 30th March 2021 was a great success. Activists from all GMB regions and devolved countries attended the meeting to hear about how this campaign is going to be won in the workplace, YOUR Workplace! Information was given on the Pay Review Body Process and Industrial Action, as well as campaigning messages as to why this time we can win. Lots of new resources from the event have now been published and should assist you in the campaign conversations you are having with your colleagues at work.
A follow up event has now been arranged and we don’t just want you to attend, we want you to bring your work colleagues too – GMB members and non-union members. It is essential that we come together as one collective voice, with a shared plan of action, if we are going to win NHS workers the Pay Justice you deserve.
GMB NHS Pay 15 – Learn to Win, Part 2
Tuesday 25th May, 6pm
So, register today – and now share the link with your colleagues and ask them to come along.
Share it via twitter, facebook and whatsapp, or a post it note with gmb.org.uk/learn2win2 written on it!
There are several weeks between now and when the Government makes their offer on pay (possibly July) and it’s crucial that not a second is wasted. Every conversation matters and it’s in your workplaces where those conversations need to be happening. The GMB NHS Pay Campaign Hub should have all the resources you need, including a list of 15 things you can do to fight for 15%.
One thing that you can do, and you can encourage your colleagues to do, is share your stories. We need to hear from you – about why you deserve pay justice and why it’s crucial that pay justice is awarded this year. We need to let everyone know your stories. Do this online via the Hub.
The second round of GMB Reps Taster Sessions for Activists in the NHS have now been arranged. If you are keen to be more active in the campaign, not just on pay, but for all future campaigns then this is the training for you. This is your opportunity to attend with other like minded NHS workers and get a taste for what the role of a GMB Representative is and how you can help organise to win in the fight for 15%.
The taster sessions run for four consecutive weeks and you are encouraged to attend all (or as many as you can). They run via Zoom between 7pm – 9pm on:
Wednesday 28th April 2021
Wednesday 5th May 2021
Wednesday 12th May 2021
Wednesday 19th May 2021
If you want to register your interest in attending the taster sessions please email your name, membership number (if you know it), workplace and job title to NHS@gmb.org.uk
Tuesday 11th May 2021, 6/7pm. Details to follow shortly.
Date: 08/04/2021
We have received confirmation that despite expected shortages in supply of the Covid-19 vaccines over the next month, all health and social care staff will be prioritised for their second doses.
Following on from this week’s announcement from the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and the Independent Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) regarding the use of the Astra Zeneca vaccine, guidance has now been issued to NHS trusts and primary care.
The advice states guidance in three circumstances:
‘Administration of the COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca in patients with a history of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, acquired or hereditary thrombophilia, heparin-induced thrombocytopenia or antiphospholipid syndrome should only be considered when the potential benefit outweighs any potential risks. Patients who have experienced major venous and arterial thrombosis occurring with thrombocytopenia following vaccination with any COVID-19 vaccine should not receive a second dose of COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca.’
The government has now confirmed that, from 1 April 2021, shielding advice will be paused nationally. This reflects falling infection rates and advice from the Chief Medical Officer. The Shielded Patient List will continue to be kept current in case of a future need.
In summary, the new advice from the 1 April is to continue to work from home where possible and if individuals cannot work from home, employers should undertake a comprehensive, individual, workplace risk assessment reflecting the current working context (ie improved testing, vaccination and relationship with transmission). These risk assessments are essential to determine the appropriate work arrangements from the 1 April.
All staff should continue to follow national guidance on infection prevention and control and on the use of personal protective equipment.
C1213-Information-on Supporting Clinically Extremely Vulnerable Staff
The NHS Covid-19 response has been reduced from level 4 to level 3.
You can readd the letter from Professor Keith Willett, NHS Strategic Incident Director, and Stephen Groves, Incident Director regarding reducing the national incident level, regarding this.
C1224 Transition to NHS Level 3 Incident
Date: 23/03/2021
Today, on the anniversary of the first day, of the first national lockdown due to Covid-19, Rachel Harrison (GMB National Officer) and Rehana Azam (GMB National Secretary) gave oral evidence to the NHS Pay Review Body (PRB) on behalf of all GMB members working in the NHS and Ambulance Services.
This was GMBs opportunity to talk in more detail about our written submission to the PRB and also raise other key issues on behalf of our members. Issues such as Covid-19, low staff morale, mental health, disproportionate impacts on Black Asian and Minority Ethnic workers, impacts of the last pay deal for all members, and specifically for those working in the ambulance service.
You can read a summary of GMB’s oral evidence session to the PRB in the box below.
Opening Remarks.
Rachel Harrison, GMB National Officer:
GMB was the only union who said NO to the last three year pay deal and we believe we have been proven right to do so on several occasions since.
GMB members rejected the pay deal because it was overly complex and difficult for individuals to understand exactly what it meant for them. This has resulted in us still taking queries on pay issues related to the deal now, almost three years later.
It was to be a real terms pay cut for dedicated NHS staff, over half of who were at the top of their pay band. A 6.5% uplift over the three year term was forecast to be a real terms pay cut.
We believed it to be unreasonable for NHS staff to be expected to pay for their own pay rise by taking cuts to unsocial hours and sick pay.
Cuts to enhanced unsocial hours payments for new ambulance staff and those changing roles would cause a divide in the workforce and discourage people from applying for promotions.
GMB has always argued that incremental pay increases should be kept separate from annual pay increases. The right pay rate for the job is the one at the top of the band and automatic pay progression is a way for people to get smoothly to the correct rate for the job. Introducing a pay progression system that is linked to appraisals, leaves many workers vulnerable and at risk of being held back by managers for unreasonable reasons. A fear felt most by our lower paid workers and those of black Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds.
Staff morale and motivation is at an all time low with staff at absolute breaking point.
As an NHS Staff Council Executive member I have spent the last twelve months meeting with NHS employers, and representatives from the Department of Health and Social Care and NHS England & Improvement to ensure our members are protected at work. In order to fully understand the issues on the ground, I am in daily contact with reps and members from all job across the NHS and ambulance services. And I can tell you, they have had enough.
Not only is staff morale at an all time low, there is a mental health crisis looming.
GMB has just closed a mental health survey of our members, which also included questions on long covid.
Out of 3,110 responses with approximately a 60/40 split between the NHS and Ambulance Service, almost 70% of members stated that their work was causing them stress or impacting on their mental health.
Amongst the top reasons for this stress and mental health impacts was fear of taking Covid home, fear for their own safety, trying to balance work and caring responsibilities and financial pressures. 52% stated that their employer didn’t provide adequate support for workers who returned to work after a mental health issue. 76% stated that their employer has not appropriately or adequately supported or managed changes in their working environment or job role during covid.
Long covid is also a very real issue for many NHS staff. Its reasonable to expect that in the early days of the pandemic, when staff were fighting to get access to PPE, those that caught covid, did so at work. Some of these people are still having to take time off work now with long covid symptoms and are not being sufficiently supported by their employer.
Over 41% of those who completed our survey stated that they had contracted covid and they believed that they were now suffering with long covid. Over 33% of these had resulted in having to take further time off work, some on lower pay than they would receive if they were able to be in work and some unpaid. It’s a disgrace that these key workers are not being shown the care and respect that they deserve.
There are workers being forced into situations of overtime at lower rates of pay or unpaid.
Car parking charges have been re-introduced in some areas, despite the NHS people plan stating it should remain free for staff for the duration of the pandemic.
Some of our members are still having to fight to get adequate Personal Protective Equipment to protect themselves.
The lowest paid in the NHS are now on less than the Foundation Living Wage.
NHS staff are seeing their colleagues ill, at breaking point, suffering emotionally, physically, and financially and they are angry. They are rightly calling for the recognition they deserve. They want pay justice and that is a restorative pay increase of 15% or £2 per hour, whichever is the greatest.
Rehana Azam, GMB National Secretary:
We are concerned about a statement made in the NHS England PRB submission:
‘A significant number of Agenda for Change staff earn below £24,000, and for them the Spending Review committed to provide a £250 pay rise.’
This statement is inaccurate as only staff who earn below £24,000 Full Time Equivalent are covered by the policy. It excludes part-time NHS staff who are below the threshold.
If staff who earn below the threshold on a part-time basis are excluded, then it will create perverse outcomes and a sense of unfairness, and also 1.1% to 1.4% would not be an adequate settlement for staff who do earn below that amount FTE.
We are also concerned that the evidence submitted by the Department of Health and Social Care does not rule out a pay freeze for some workers. While vacancies are particularly acute in some occupations, this is a relative measure – recruitment and retention problems are pronounced across the NHS.
The Treasury’s own Equality Impact Assessment from November, which GMB got under the Freedom of Information Act, said that:
‘In order to ensure the NHS is robustly resourced and equipped, it is not appropriate to impose a pay freeze on NHS workers at this point in time.’
We agree with the Treasury on that point – and we think that any attempt to freeze NHS workers’ pay or otherwise cut it in real terms would be misguided.
Another regrettable issue is the Department’s failure to seize the nettle on High Cost Area Supplements (HCAS). We were grateful for the PRB’s supportive comments in its last report and it is disappointing that the Department did not provide a remit for a review. The problems with HCAS are structural and long-term, and if the PRB would consider reiterating that there is a strong case for a review in this year’s report then that would be appreciated.
I don’t need to tell you that there were over 100,000 vacancies in our NHS before the pandemic.
Although, NHS and ambulance service workers have been recognised as the key workers we always knew they were, years of underfunding and undervaluing these workers before the pandemic had led to chronic staffing shortages and a workforce and system already at breaking point. Government was wholly unprepared to protect our NHS and its workers.
People from Black Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds have been impacted the most during this pandemic. GMB has just submitted evidence into the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) which is specific to racism and racial inequality across the NHS and social care. We can provide you with a copy.
PPE has been one of the most shocking failures of this government's handling of the pandemic and continues to be. Out of date PPE was sent to workers on the frontline – masks out of date by years, goggles that were that old the elastic band straps disintegrated when workers tried to put them on. PPE of inferior quality and insufficient to protect workers – paramedics attending to covid patients with flimsy aprons you find people wearing who work in your local sandwich shop.
PPE guidance changed at least 40 times in the first six months of the pandemic, leaving employers and workers completely confused and scared. This led into a huge distrust amongst workers and a belief they were being lied to about how safe they were. Guidance was changed to meet supply with advice issued over one weekend when supplies ran out, advising workers to wash and reuse items that should be disposed.
It is only now being reported of the money wasted on PPE – warehouses full of supplies that were bought without proper checks and of inferior quality and therefore can’t be used. Contracts given to Ministers friends without checks and transparency.
GMB is campaigning for Covid to be classified as an industrial disease. Needless lives have been lost and government has to take responsibility.
GMB is calling for a fully independent public inquiry into covid and the governments handling of it. The government have lost their way. We need a coherent strategy with all key stakeholders at the table.
All devolved countries have recognised the efforts of their health and social care workers with financial bonus payments. Wales went one step further and topped up the payment to account for tax and national insurance deductions. These are payments in addition to any pay award yet to be offered. England is the anomaly.
GMB is clear that the pay award must be one that is consolidated and fully funded. One off lump sum payments are not the answer. However, the fact that the Government in England has failed completely in providing a bonus of this type for recognition of Covid efforts, speaks volumes.
They have failed to do anything other than clap. Instead, they have recommended 1% which is a complete insult.
This is why GMB is calling for a restorative pay award of 15%, or £2 per hour, whichever is the greatest.
Our members know their value, even if government don’t and they are prepared to fight for it if they have to. If we need to go down the route of industrial action in the coming months if there isn’t a satisfactory offer, we will do.
Everyone is watching and waiting to see what the PRB will do. GMB is calling on you to do the right thing and recommend a real terms pay increase.”
Read GMBs written submission into the PRB at: Evidence submissions | GMB
The PRB panel focussed their questions on four key areas. Details of these are listed below with brief comments highlighting GMBs response.
1. Affordability of the pay award, & simplicity of the offer
2. Impact of the three year deal – specifically on ambulance workers
3. Equalities
4. Retention
In response to the question: ‘What is the risk of rentention for AfC staff this year compared to last year? Low, Medium or High?’ – GMB response: very high.
Staff are sticking out the next few months due to feelings of supporting patients and their colleagues through the pandemic, but will leave afterwards if not rewarded with pay justice.
Staff burnout and exhaustion is a real issue that needs addressing.
Flexible working options are not yet a reality for the majority of NHS workers.
The effects of pension contribution increases could mean that many NHS staff are set to actually receive another pay cut. The pension remedy arrangements as a result of the McCloud judgment, may result in more people retiring early – this is of particular concerns in the ambulance service due to the long standing grievance of their retirment age not being equal to that of other emergency services.
What’s Next?
GMB will now provide further written evidence into the PRB on areas that were discussed today. These include:
It is expected that the PRB will review all evidence received and issue their report to Government, who will then respond with their pay offer.
This is when GMB members will be consulted on that offer. Therefore, it is essential that all GMB members details are up to date and permissions given to allow us to communicate with them by email, mobile phone and post.
Members can check their details and make any amendments by contacting local branch’s, representatives or GMB offices, or online at: https://gmb.org.uk/mygmb-edit
All resources for our pay campaign can be found on the GMB NHS Hub, including links for non members to join - We're campaigning for pay justice in our NHS | GMB
Date: 11/03/2021
The deadline for frontline health and social care workers to book directly to receive a COVID-19 vaccine at a Vaccination Centre or pharmacy-led site has been extended until further notice.
Self-referral extension for eligible staff
Millions of people have had the first dose of their COVID-19 vaccine, including the majority of frontline health and social care workers.
To ensure no frontline workers who want one are left behind, the NHS has opened the National Booking Service to allow eligible staff to book directly at a Vaccination Centre or pharmacy-led site.
Using the National Booking Service is quick and simple. You can do it online at nhs.uk/CovidVaccination, or by calling 119 if you can’t use the internet.
This service is open to any eligible health and social care worker – whether you work directly for the NHS or a contractor, an independent provider or are in private practice.
You will be asked to self-certify that you are eligible when booking, and provide proof of your eligibility when you attend your appointment.
The ability to book directly is only expected to remain open for a limited period of time, so if you haven’t had your first dose yet, make your appointment as soon as possible.
It’s important to remember, in the meantime and even if you have had the vaccine, we all still need to follow all the guidelines to control the virus and save lives. That means following the IPC and testing measures in your workplace, and the general advice at work, at home and when you are out and about.
New guidance has been published regarding ventilation to stop the spread of Covid-19. This includes guidance for workplace settings and vehicles. You can access it at:
Ventilation of indoor spaces to stop the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) - GOV.UK
GMB has also launched a new mental health survey for our members working in the NHS and ambulance services. This is a follow up to the one we did in October and includes additional questions on your experiences of Long Covid. The evidence will be used in GMBs evidence session to the PRB so please do take a couple of minutes to complete it. Then share the survey with your colleagues and ask them to complete it too.
You can complete the survey online at: gmb.org.uk/nhsC19health
Closing date is Wednesday 17th March 2021.
GMB’s priority remains in keeping our members safe at work which is why throughout the Pandemic we have been regularly updating our Coronavirus Hub with all the information you need to keep yourself safe. You can check it out at: Get It Right | The Coronavirus Hub
You can also access NHS & Ambulance Service specific advice at: NHS and COVID-19: Frequently Asked Questions
If you have concerns that you may have contracted Covid-19 in the workplace, please record your details on the GMB Risk Register at: COVID-19 Risk Register
It is essential that your membership details are up to date so that we can ensure you are kept up to date with advice and guidance relevant to you.
You can update your details by contacting your local GMB Representative or online using the GMB website at gmb.org.uk/mygmb-edit
It will be many months before we see a return to any form of ‘normality’. Covid-19 will still present a danger to health care workers and the people you care for. As a result, it means that your GMB Union Representatives may continue to have difficulties visiting you in your workplaces.
However, we want you to know that we are still here. We are considering a variety of ways that we can get information to you and engage with you on your issues in the workplace. One way to do this is to arrange a virtual online meeting for your workplace.
If you would like to book one of these meetings please contact your local GMB representative or email NHS@gmb.org.uk
Date: 05/03/2021
Government finally submitted their evidence into the NHS Pay Review Body (PRB) yesterday Thursday 4th March 2021, 6 weeks late. If the fact that they couldn’t get their submission in on time didn’t prove their complete lack of respect and disregard for NHS workers, then their recommendation on this years pay certainly does.
Compare their recommendation on pay in their PRB submission, to GMBs recommendation on pay in our submission:
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Government |
GMB
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In response to the anger that NHS workers and unions have expressed, Government have responded to say: ‘it’s better than nothing’; ‘it’s all we can afford’. We know that they aren’t telling the truth.
GMB is calling on the PRB to do the right thing and show the Government’s submission the same disregard that they have shown NHS workers - and ignore it!
GMB will continue to fight for pay justice for our members, but we need your help to do so. If you are not in the GMB, join. Become an activist. Spread the word that this time NHS workers are fighting back.
GMB is holding a meeting for all GMB NHS Activists across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. If you are a GMB member and want to play a crucial role in this pay justice campaign register for your place today.
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GMB NHS Pay 15 – Learn to Win
Tuesday 30th March 2021, 6pm – 8pm
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Key Dates:
Mental Health
GMB has also launched a new mental health survey for our members working in the NHS and ambulance services. This is a follow up to the one we did in October and includes additional questions on your experiences of Long Covid. The evidence will be used in GMBs evidence session to the PRB so please do take a couple of minutes to complete it. Then share the survey with your colleagues and ask them to complete it too.
You can complete the survey online at: gmb.org.uk/nhsC19health
Closing date is Wednesday 17th March 2021.
If you want to read the full submissions into the PRB you can do so at:
GMB (please share): Evidence Submissions.
Government: DHSC evidence for the NHSPRB: pay round 2021 to 2022.
WHAT ELSE CAN YOU DO TO HELP?
Not a GMB member?
A GMB member already?
Get involved!
Don’t a have a GMB Representative?
Become one!
Register your interest via the website campaigning page!
Unsure about what the role of a GMB NHS Representative involves? Register your interest in our NHS Representative Taster Sessions – email your contact details to NHS@gmb.org.uk
A GMB Representative already?
Are your contact details correct?
It is essential that your membership details are up to date so that we can ensure you are kept up to date with developments in the pay campaign and receive a ballot paper when they are issued.
Make sure that you are opted into receiving communications from GMB.
You can update your details by contacting your local GMB Representative or online using the GMB website at gmb.org.uk/mygmb-edit
Date: 03/02/2021
Vaccination guidance has been amended to confirm that temporary workers should be prioritised for vaccination.
You can read the details at: england.nhs.uk
Vaccinations for health and social care workers with no NHS number
NHSEI have issued further advice for workers who may not have an NHS number:
“Vaccinating our frontline teams against COVID-19 is an absolute and immediate priority, as part of our shared commitment to offer the first vital dose to 100% of those within the first four JCVI priority groups by the middle of February.
NHS staff do not require a NHS number or GP registration to receive a vaccination and should never be denied one on this basis, either in person when presenting for a vaccine, or through design of booking systems. Please take immediate action to ensure this is not the case in your organisation.
If a member of staff does not have an NHS number, then employers should vaccinate now, record locally via a paper system and ensure that that the vaccination event is more formally documented later. NHS England and NHS Improvement are working to agree a longer-term solution, but employers should not wait for this before vaccinating.
Locum, agency and bank staff in qualifying roles must be given equitable access, and the contracting organisation has a duty of care to ensure these staff are offered a vaccination alongside substantive staff.”
GMB advice regarding vaccination can be read here
GMB has been calling on the Department of Health & Social Care to work with us to review and amend current PPE guidance and provide the highest level PPE for all health and social care staff working with or near suspected or confirmed Covid-19 positive patients or residents. We have now received a response to our two most recent letters which states that guidance will not be amended.
Despite this response, local employers can choose to afford higher protection than what is stated in the PPE Guidance – some Trusts have already started doing this. GMBs position remains the same that we believe the highest level of PPE should be made available to these workers and encourage all local employers to make level 3 PPE available.
The full response from the DHSC can be read here
Public Health England (PHE) Response to the Social Partnership Forum (SPF):
The SPF has also asked PHE to review PPE guidance in light of the new Covid-19 variations. A response has now been received which states again that they will not be changing the guidance.
You can read a copy of the response here
Date: 27/01/2021
GMB continues to call for the highest level of PPE for all health and social care staff working with / near Covid-19 patients. We have repeatedly raised this for several months with the Department of Health & Social Care (DHSC) and Public Health England (PHE). The most recent response we have received from PHE again fails to amend their guidance and increase the levels of protections available to workers.
GMB and other health unions via the Social Partnership Forum (SPF) have also written to PHE asking them to review the current guidance in light of the new variant of Covid-19.
GMB is also a member of the Aerosol Generating Procedures Alliance who have been campaigning for several months for a review of AGPs and PPE. We have now jointly written to all MPs asking for them to support our call for increasing the levels of PPE.
We need you to get involved in this campaign and are asking that you contact your MP and ask them to also support this campaign.
Please share your letter and / or any responses on Twitter or Facebook using the hashtag #FFP3PPE and tagging in @GMBNHS
Do you not have an NHS Number?
GMB has received reports that some health and social care staff have been unable to access the Covid-19 vaccination due to them not having an NHS number. This issue has been raised with NHS England & NHS Improvement who have confirmed that all patient facing health care workers should be able to access the vaccine.
The consent form for the vaccine can be completed without an NHS Number.
Report template - NHSI website (england.nhs.uk)
A worker from overseas working within health care can also automatically register for a GP and be allocated an NHS number.
If you do not have an NHS number and have been denied access to a vaccine please raise this immediately with your local GMB Representative.
GMB and other health unions have raised concerns that some groups of workers have been expected to travel to vaccination appointments in their own time and during rest periods, whereas other staff are able to attend during works time and paid. It has been confirmed that this is down to local arrangements.
GMB would expect that as much flexibility as possible is applied locally to allow for staff to be vaccinated at a venue and time most convenient for them and that wherever possible this should be in works time and paid.
As with all vaccines, there may be a small number of people who suffer minor side effects after vaccination. GMB and other health unions have queried what sick pay arrangements are in place for staff who have to take time off work as a result.
It is disappointing that this will not be covered by Covid-19 Sick Pay arrangements and will instead be covered under usual sickness arrangements.
GMB would expect that no period of illness linked to the vaccine should count towards any sickness triggers and expect local management to consider and discard these periods of absence for the purposes of formal procedures. If you have suffered as a result of this please speak to your local GMB Representative immediately.
Can Clinically Extremely Vulnerable (CEV) staff who are Shielding return to work after having the vaccine?
No. A precautionary approach is essential. Therefore, national guidance for people who are CEV and Shielding should continue to be followed, regardless of how many doses of vaccine an individual has had. This will remain under review as government and PHE guidance changes.
Regular testing of staff is fundamental in controlling Covid-19 within healthcare settings and ensure the health and safety of staff.
Unions have been asked to remind staff to continue reporting all of their test results each week – both negative and positive test results. This is to ensure accuracy in understanding the transmission of the virus amongst staff.
The NMC has re-introduced a set of emergency standards that enables final year nursing students (not including those in their final year of a two year post graduate diploma programme) to undertake up to 100% of their time in clinical practice.
These arrangements are for final year undergraduate nursing students only and do not apply to those on the shortened postgraduate entry programme or to midwifery students.
You can read more details at england.nhs.uk
4.8% of schools have reported not being able to satisfy demand for key worker places and we know that this has been an issue for some of our members working in the NHS.
If you are having an issue with childcare as result of school closure you should discuss the problems with your line manager and work together to find a suitable resolution. If a suitable solution has not been able to be agreed there is a national escalation route which can be accessed by your employer. This allows for your employer to raise your issue direct with NHSEI who can escalate to the Department for Education (DfE).
The Covid-19 Childcare Workstream within NHSEI has launched a survey in partnership with the DfE to understand the impacts of the latest national lockdown on the workforce. GMB members affected by this issue are encouraged to take a few minutes to complete the survey. Data collected within the survey will be used to help scope future DfE policy decisions.
The survey is open until 10th February and can be accessed online:
Complete in the Childare Survey January 2021
You can also access NHS & Ambulance Service specific advice at: NHS and COVID-19: Frequently Asked Questions
If you have concerns that you may have contracted Covid-19 in the workplace, please record your details on the GMB COVID-19 Risk Register.
Date: 20/01/2021
Unions requested a briefing on the Covid-19 Vaccination via the Social Partnership Forum (SPF) this week to raise some of the queries being received from our members. The briefing was given by representatives from the NHSE Vaccination Programme, Health Education England (HEE) and the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI). Some of the key points covered were:
With regards the vaccination itself, some key points discussed in the briefing were:
More Information:
Most clinical questions can be answered in the Greenbook chapter 14a which is regularly updated.
Royal College of Midwives has issued fupdated advice on COVID-19 vaccination in pregnancy and women who are breastfeeding.
Health Education England have published further guidance for students during Covid-19.
You can read GMBs current statement on Covid-19 Vaccinations at the Coronavirus Hub.
The Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE) has issued further advice as a result of the new variant of Covid-19 on ways to mitigate transmission risks.
“Existing mitigation measures (social distancing, ventilation, hand hygiene and mask usage) remain important, but given the increase in risk associated with the new variant, a commensurate strengthening in the measures taken may be needed.”
This means that because the virus is more infectious and the risk has increased, greater use of all these mitigations and a review of all risk assessments should be performed. The full set of any measures outlined in a risk assessment now needs to be implemented to the fullest.
Some key points to note in keeping workplaces safe for all:
GMB expects that GMB Health & Safety Representatives are involved in all workplace inspections and that these are carried out as frequently as possible, and daily if appropriate to do so. There should be regular (daily if possible) health and safety meetings to discuss and address current issues as they arise. Communication and updates with the whole workforce is essential.
If you have any concerns about health and safety in your workplace or regarding your individual risk assessment, please speak to your local GMB Representative immediately.
NHS Staff Council have issued revised Quarantine Guidance. It takes into consideration the most recent Government announcement on 18th January regarding the closure of travel corridors and requirement for negative Covid-19 tests.
This can be accessed online at: COVID19-and-quarantine-revised-Jan-2021.pdf
GMB’s priority remains in keeping our members safe at work which is why throughout the Pandemic we have been regularly updating our Coronavirus Hub with all the information you need to keep yourself safe. You can check it out at The Coronavirus Hub
GMB continues to have concerns about the safety of our members in the workplace, specifically regarding PPE. We continue to hear reports of PPE that is low in quality and protection. GMB has consistently called on Government to review Public Health England guidance and increase the level of protection available to our members working in health and social care.
This issue is a priority more than ever now as we see the effects of a new strain of the virus with higher transmission rates. The Government have a responsibility to do everything in their power now to protect workers.
GMB has contacted Government again calling on them to increase PPE guidance to level 3 for all health and social care workers who need it.
Read a copy of our press statement and the letter.
Date: 14/01/21
New operational guidance has now been issued regarding the vaccination of frontline health and social care workers. This provides for an immediate requirement to vaccinate frontline health and social care workers.
NHS Trusts (including acute, mental health, community and ambulance trusts) have now been instructed to establish ‘hospital hubs’ by mid-January with responsibility for the vaccination of individuals. It outlines that priority is to be given to frontline staff at ‘high risk of acquiring infection, at high individual risk of developing serious disease, or at risk of transmitting infection to multiple vulnerable persons or other staff in a healthcare environment. This includes but is not limited to:
GMB supports the vaccination programme and the prioritisation of vaccination of all health and social care staff. However, we understand there may be reasons why an individual cannot be vaccinated. Individuals should discuss any issues or concerns they have with their line manager and contact your local GMB Representative for support if required.
The Government have published detailed information regarding the vaccine for healthcare workers which we would advise our members to read. It can be accessed at:
COVID-19 vaccination: guide for healthcare workers - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Guidance has also been issued for women of childbearing age, pregnant or breastfeeding. It can be accessed at:
GMB’s priority remains in keeping our members safe at work which is why throughout the Pandemic we have been regularly updating our Coronavirus Hub with all the information you need to keep yourself safe.
Get it right! - GMB Coronavirus Hub.
You can also access NHS & Ambulance Service specific advice at: NHS and COVID-19: Frequently Asked Questions
If you have concerns that you may have contracted Covid-19 in the workplace, please record your details on the GMB Risk Register at: COVID-19 Risk Register
It is essential that your membership details are up to date so that we can ensure you are kept up to date with advice and guidance relevant to you.
You can update your details by contacting your local GMB Representative or online using the GMB website at gmb.org.uk/mygmb-edit
It will be many months before we see a return to any form of ‘normality’. Covid-19 will still present a danger to health care workers and the people you care for. As a result, it means that your GMB Union Representatives may continue to have difficulties visiting you in your workplaces.
However, we want you to know that we are still here. We are considering a variety of ways that we can get information to you and engage with you on your issues in the workplace. One way to do this is to arrange a virtual online meeting for your workplace.
If you would like to book one of these meetings please contact your local GMB representative or email NHS@gmb.org.uk
Date: 12/01/2021
GMB have written to Matt Hancock raising our members' concerns around the current guidance for PPE in Health & Social Care settings.
Our suggestions included:
"...specifying higher performance face coverings and masks, this should particularly be considered in settings where people are more vulnerable to the consequences of the disease and/or are more likely to be infectious.""...engineering, procedural and personal controls... [to be] applied rigorously to ensure they are effective."
"Organisations and individuals should reassess their environments in the light of new evidence about transmissibility of the new variant to consider whether they have maximised all the steps they can take to reduce the probability of transmission."
The full letter is available to read here, we will update the noticeboard in the event we recieve a response.
Date: 06/01/2021
Advice has now been issued to all NHS Trusts, Foundation Trusts, Primary Care Networks and GPs regarding the Covid-19 vaccination programme which states that all frontline health and social care staff should be prioritised for vaccination. NHS Trusts HRDs and local vaccination services are responsible for overseeing the vaccination of NHS staff - frontline staff to be prioritised.
12 weeks is the maximum length of time that should be between the first and second dose and both doses must be from the same vaccine type.
NHS England have a dedicated webpage where you can access all the latest information on the vaccine programme - Coronavirus » COVID-19 vaccination programme (england.nhs.uk)
Statistics regarding the numbers of vaccinations will also be regularly updated at - Statistics » COVID-19 Vaccinations (england.nhs.uk)
The GMB NHS & Ambulance Service Covid-19 Frequently Asked Questions has now been updated. It collates all of the Covid-19 information and guidance specific to NHS and Ambulance members in one place. Please check regularly for updates and share it with your colleagues.
NHS and COVID-19: Frequently Asked Questions | GMB
Employers must carry out a risk assessment, looking specifically at risks of exposure to Covid-19. All steps must be taken to reduce the risk of employees catching the virus to as low as possible. Risk assessments must be carried out by a ‘competent’ person – someone who knows and understands both the workplace and the work. In GMB recognised workplaces, we expect Safety Reps to be consulted on any risk assessment carried out.
Once the risk assessment is performed and the necessary measures are in place, it is critical that the standards are upheld, and the risk assessment regularly reviewed to ensure it is still accurate. During the current Covid pandemic, the situation is changing regularly and dramatically, and three months is too long between inspections and meetings. GMB firmly believes that inspections should be much more frequent, and specific to consider primarily Covid issues.
For most workplaces, a weekly inspection and committee meeting should be implemented, to ensure that any issues identified can be urgently addressed. In some workplace where either the Covid risk is high, or workers are grouped into many cohorts (small teams), it may be better to organise daily floor walks, so that cohorts do not have to mix. Whichever method is adopted, the most important consideration is that issues can be quickly identified and addressed, and the information can be quickly shared with the workforce.
GMB expects employers to be updating risk assessments in consideration of the new variants of the virus. Please speak to your local GMB Rep if you have concerns about risk assessments in your workplace.
GMB continues to have concerns regarding PPE for healthcare workers. Government have informed us that there are sufficient supplies of PPE to see us through winter and the Pandemic. However, this is based on the current Public Health England (PHE) guidance which GMB still does not agree offers sufficient protection. GMB contacted PHE and the Department of Health & Social Care again with our concerns on 14th December 2020. We will continue to campaign for the highest possible level of protection for our members.
GMB’s priority remains in keeping our members safe at work which is why throughout the Pandemic we have been regularly updating our Coronavirus Hub with all the information you need to keep yourself safe. You can check it out at: Get It Right | The Coronavirus Hub
You can also access NHS & Ambulance Service specific advice at: NHS and COVID-19: Frequently Asked Questions
If you have concerns that you may have contracted Covid-19 in the workplace, please record your details on the GMB COVID-19 Risk Register
It is essential that your membership details are up to date so that we can ensure you are kept up to date with advice and guidance relevant to you.
You can update your details by contacting your local GMB Representative or online using the GMB website at gmb.org.uk/mygmb-edit
It will be many months before we see a return to any form of ‘normality’. Covid-19 will still present a danger to health care workers and the people you care for. As a result, it means that your GMB Union Representatives may continue to have difficulties visiting you in your workplaces.
However, we want you to know that we are still here. We are considering a variety of ways that we can get information to you and engage with you on your issues in the workplace. One way to do this is to arrange a virtual online meeting for your workplace.
If you would like to book one of these meetings please contact your local GMB representative or email NHS@gmb.org.uk
Not a GMB Member? Join the union for NHS staff today
More information about being a GMB Representative in your workplace?
Follow and like our Facebook Page – GMB Union NHS Workers
Follow us on Twitter - @GMBNHS
Date: 21/12/2020
As the year comes to an end, GMB Union wants to thank all of our NHS & Ambulance Service members for their hard work and efforts during the year, keeping us safe and cared for, and for their continued membership with GMB.
This year has been extremely difficult for everyone, but especially for all those who continued to work throughout the Coronavirus Pandemic (Covid-19) providing essential services within our NHS. We have had to collectively fight from the start of Covid-19 to ensure our members were protected – physically, mentally and financially.
We have made many representations to Ministers and the Department of Health & Social Care, ensuring they knew the reality of what our members were facing on the frontline. GMB has also participated in regular meetings with Department of Health Representatives, NHS Employers and other health unions from the start of Covid-19, ensuring GMB members voices have a platform to be heard.
We have had some successes throughout the year which include:
It is without doubt that healthcare workers have been consistently failed throughout Covid-19 and that is why GMB will not stop calling for an independent inquiry into the Government’s handling of the Pandemic. Unfortunately, that inquiry will come too late for the hundreds of health and social care workers who have lost their lives.
GMB’s priority remains in keeping our members safe at work which is why throughout the Pandemic we have been regularly updating our Coronavirus Hub with all the information you need to keep yourself safe.
You can check it out at:
If you have concerns that you may have contracted Covid-19 in the workplace, please record your details on the GMB Risk Register:
A mental health crisis is looming within the NHS. This comes after years of cuts to services and the inability of the service to recruit and retain staff, which led to a 100,000+ vacancy crisis prior to Covid-19. Almost a year of fighting Covid-19, with little or no time to rest and recover before we headed into the second wave and winter has left many NHS staff unable to cope. If you are struggling, please speak out - we've put some resources together for people seeking help:
It is with great relief that some of our elderly population have now been vaccinated. It will take many months for people in the prioritised categories to be vaccinated but we hope to see the vaccination programme roll out speedily and efficiently over the coming months.
Health and social care workers have been identified as a priority group of workers to be vaccinated and we have already started to see NHS staff be vaccinated, although the vast majority will not have access until the New Year.
GMB supports the Covid-19 vaccination programme and would encourage our members to have both the Flu and Covid-19 vaccination. However, this is not mandatory, and we understand that some of our members are not able to be vaccinated e.g. for health reasons; pregnancy; etc. We therefore would expect that no member suffers a financial detriment as a result of not being vaccinated. If you have any concerns regarding this, please speak with your local GMB Representative.
The campaign for pay justice continues. GMB’s pay claim to Government is:
Government have now published their much-delayed remit to the NHS Pay Review Body (PRB) asking them to make a recommendation on your pay. However, GMB is disappointed with the Government’s misleading use of statistics in the remit letter and potential restrictions placed upon the PRB.
GMB will be submitting evidence into the PRB using the data from the three all member consultation surveys we have carried out this year.
Some of the results from the most recent survey showed that:
Check out our dedicated campaign website where you can see exactly how much money you have lost in your pay packets since 2010. You can also download and share campaign resources, order campaign merchandise and sign our petition at: We're campaigning for pay justice in our NHS | GMB
It is essential that your membership details are up to date so that we can ensure you are kept up to date with developments in the pay campaign and receive a ballot paper when they are issued.
You can update your details by contacting your local GMB Representative or online.
It will be many months before we see a return to any form of ‘normality’. Covid-19 will still present a danger to health care workers and the people you care for. As a result, it means that your GMB Union Representatives may continue to have difficulties visiting you in your workplaces. However, we want you to know that we are still here. We are considering a variety of ways that we can get information to you and engage with you on your issues in the workplace. One way to do this is to arrange a virtual online meeting for your workplace. If you would like to book one of these in please contact your local GMB representative or email NHS@gmb.org.uk
Have you ever been interested in the role of GMB Representative in your workplace but unsure whether you have the skills or can commit the time? Why not join one of our NHS Rep Taster Sessions? If you’re interested, email NHS@gmb.org.uk and we will be in touch with more details.
Lee Mead is best known for winning the title role in the 2007 West End revival of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat through the BBCs show ‘Any Dream Will Do’. He is also known for starring in Casualty and Holby City.
As a thank you to GMB key workers he is giving away 1000 tickets to his 2021 tour in England and Wales. You can enter the ballot to win two tickets at: https://bit.ly/3oUK0zj
The Pandemic is far from over as we continue through the second wave of Covid-19 and face the winter pressures. GMB will continue to be by your side throughout.
We hope that you get some time over the Christmas holidays to rest and spend time with your families and loved ones. We wish you and your families a very merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
GMB Union NHS Workers on Facebook - Twitter: @GMBNHS
Date: 14/12/2020
Rachel Harrison, GMB National Officer for NHS and Social Care, has written to:
The Department of Health & Social Care
On behalf of our members in the NHS and Social Care, we are challenging the following areas where the national guidance is inadequate or innacurate:
We will update members in the event we recieve a response or that the guidance is clarified.
Date: 09/12/2020
GMB, the Union for NHS Staff, continues to campaign for Pay Justice for all NHS Staff. After a decade of austerity, keyworkers in the NHS have lost out financially and warm words and claps will no longer suffice. Check to see how much money you have lost in real terms here:
GMB has launched a petition to call on the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Matt Hancock, to do the right thing and give NHS workers the pay they deserve. Please sign and share:
Thank you to everyone who took time to complete the third all member GMB survey. There was an overwhelming response and the data will now be collated and used as a part of GMB’s submission into the Pay Review Body.
Thank you also to all those members who expressed an interest in being a GMB Representative and attended one of our Workplace Representative Taster Sessions. If you would like more infromation on getting ivolved in this campaign or being a GMB representative in your workplace, please speak to your local GMB representative or email NHS@gmb.org.uk
GMB continues to work with other health trade unions to lobby government for an ‘early and significant pay increase’ in the form of a fully funded one year deal. We have not received a response from government to our request for them to meet us to negotate this year’s pay increase.
We have now heard NHS workers will be exempt from governments proposals to freeze public sector pay and that a remit will be given to the Pay Review Body to make a recommendation on pay. We still await for the formal remit letter to be issued.
Health unions are continuing to work towards a provisional timeline of 18th January 2021 for written submissions to be made to the PRB and the joint union submission is currently being finalised.
Date: 25/09/2020
Date: 11/08/2020
Politicians work for you. They want to hear from you about what is important to you. They have a duty to listen and respond.
The easiest way to let them know what you think about NHS pay is to write to them. A physical letter is best as it has the most impact, but an email works too. The most impact comes from you writing in your own words about why you deserve a substantial pay increase as an NHS worker.
Below is a list of points you may wish to consider when drafting your letter or email:
You can find the relevant contact details at:
England - members.parliament.uk/FindYourMP
Scotland - beta.parliament.scot/msps/current-and-previous-msps
Wales - business.senedd.wales/mgFindMember.aspx
Northern Ireland - aims.niassembly.gov.uk/mlas/search.aspx
