UK Government Face Backlash Over NHS Staff Pay

During the summer, smaller protests broke out that demanded a pay rise. Image from Ehimetalor Akhere Unuabona, Unsplash

Among the many issues faced by NHS staff, for those on the frontline, salary or the lack there of, is the biggest personal one. In the Spring of 2020, people of the UK took to their doorsteps to clap, bash pots and pans or play their instruments, all in support of those working in the NHS. Although seen as a nice gesture by staff, it was nothing more than the nation patting itself on the back for doing what was necessary.

This was reflected in a nurse’s sentiment when he said:

“Sure, it was a nice thing to see, but it never gave me an extra pair of hands or another tenner in my pocket but at least everyone was happy for a few minutes.”

However, out of the virtue signalling of the first lockdown has come serious calls for NHS staff to receive a pay rise. Both the UK and Scottish governments have made proposals, with the English offer sparking widescale outrage from individuals, workers unions, opposition parties and even some Tory backbenchers.

An announcement was made shortly after Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, revealed his spending plans, stating that all NHS workers would receive a 1 per cent pay increase. For the average nurse, this would equate to an extra £340 a year, a decision which has been heavily criticised by UNISON general secretary, Christina McAnea, who in a statement said:

“This offer isn’t just bad for staff. It’s bad for the NHS and the patients it cares for.”

Opposition leader, Sir Keir Starmer, challenged Boris Johnson over his decision during PMQ’s, bringing up a promise made by the government in their 2019 election manifesto that stated NHS workers would receive a 2.1 per cent pay rise. In response, the government has used the pandemic as a defence saying that Covid has put unparalleled levels of pressure on the public purse, with government debt outweighing the GDP for the first time since the 1960s. Even some economists have spoken up, criticising the fact that the pay rise isn’t in line with the current rate of inflation.

Originally the government took a hard-line stance on their offer but, despite the ongoing pandemic, some workers have threatened strike action if there is not a considerable increase. The Royal College of Nursing are suggesting a 12.5 per cent increase, while some smaller groups are demanding a 15 per cent rise, which has forced the government to back down somewhat. Although not guaranteeing an increase, the government has agreed to reconsider their offer, but only after the report from the Independent Pay Review Body comes back, which is due in May.

In Scotland, there has been considerably less trouble as part of the Holyrood budget, an interim 1 per cent increase has been put forward with the government emphasising that this is open to negotiation. This comes alongside a one off “Thank You” payment of £500 to all NHS workers, which will be backdated to December 1.