WALES’ largest health union, UNISON Cymru/Wales, has welcomed a decision to approve an additional pay award by the Welsh government for NHS staff.
The enhanced pay offer for 2022/23 includes an additional 3% with 1.5% consolidated and 1.5% non-consolidated on top of the £1,400 increase paid earlier this year.
UNISON Cymru/Wales consulted more than 30,000 NHS staff from cleaners and porters to nurses and midwives and more on whether to accept the pay award.
A total of 61% of those who voted agreed to accept.
Regional secretary of UNISON Cymru/Wales Dominic MacAskill said: “UNISON Cymru/Wales welcomes the approach of the Welsh government to get everyone around the table to discuss an additional package for all staff employed in the NHS. This is in stark contrast to actions of the UK government in Westminster.
“The joint body made up of representatives from the Welsh government, employers and unions approved the additional pay award. It is acknowledged that this was agreed by a narrow margin and there will still be a requirement for further discussions and negotiations.
“The majority of health workers belonging to UNISON Cymru/Wales across all health boards were prepared to accept the latest pay award.
“UNISON Cymru/Wales achieved a mandate for industrial action in the recent re-ballot of ambulance staff. Should the offer from the Welsh government not materialise into a pay award, notice for strike action will be considered.”
