NHS Scotland staff 'angry' over lack of pay talks

NHS staff across Scotland are “angry” that talks on pay will not be reopened, according to a trade union.

A Unison survey of its members found 87% think the health service should consider a further pay award this year, and 72% say they are exhausted after work.

It also shows 80% say they are tired or very tired, and 30% of staff feel they are not getting adequate breaks.

The trade union has called on health secretary Jeane Freeman to reopen talks on this year’s pay deal, particularly in light of the extra costs they have had, such as added childcare, travel and clothes-washing fees.

Willie Duffy, Unison Scotland’s head of health, said: “Our survey shows the strength of feeling.

“NHS staff across Scotland are angry that cabinet secretary for health Jeane Freeman has not agreed to reopen talks on NHS pay for 2020/21.

“We all welcomed our health secretary and First Minister clapping for our ‘brilliant NHS workers’.

“But it’s disappointing that the thanks appears to end at a round of applause, after Ms Freeman has not agreed to reopen talks on pay.

“This is after health workers received one of the lowest public sector pay awards in the country and staff have many extra costs to deal with.

“We hoped for better from the Scottish Government.”

The poll received more than 7000 responses in 24 hours.

NHS workers described having to buy their own PPE, facing extra costs with public transport shutting, as well as the increase in bills due to more laundry being done.

One told the trade union “clapping and banging pots and pans don’t pay bills”.