Ministers have power to pause strikes  by committing to pay boost, says UNISON

Thousands of ambulance workers across England walked out today (Wednesday) after the government failed to take part in any pay talks to prevent disruption to NHS services, says UNISON. Staff belonging to UNISON at five ambulance services – North West, North East, Yorkshire, London and South West – have been staging a 12-hour walkout from noon over pay and staffing. UNISON says all health workers will want to escalate strike action in the coming weeks if the government continues to ignore efforts to resolve the dispute. Ministers have had ample opportunity to avoid industrial action over the inadequate pay given to NHS staff, but have steadfastly refused to take part in any talks, says the union. Those taking part in the action today include paramedics, emergency care assistants, ambulance technicians and other 999 road crew members, who have been on picket lines in various parts of England. Throughout the day, ambulance workers have been leaving picket lines to respond to calls where someone’s life is in danger. UNISON general secretary Christina McAnea said: “The government has let down staff, patients and the public, pure and simple. “It would be job done if ministers put as much energy into solving this dispute as they have spreading scare stories and demonising skilled ambulance staff. “Vacancies are at an all-time high in the NHS. The grim reality is that patients are being harmed every day by a woefully understaffed health service. “Most...
Source: UNISON Health care news - Category: UK Health Authors: Tags: News Press release Ambulance Strike Source Type: news