Northern Ireland pay consultation survey now open

SoR representatives say it is important that all members working in Health and Social Care (HSC) respond to this survey as the results will be used to make a decision on a move to a formal industrial action ballot.

The pay award for 2022-23 has not yet been paid to health service staff in Northern Ireland due to the lack of a functioning government.

Details of the award that has been paid in England/Wales can be found here. In Scotland the SoR is currently balloting members on a pay offer.

The SoR NI National Officer with other health union officials met with Health Minister Robin Swann to ensure that members voices were heard especially in light of the rising cost of living and financial pressures facing them. 

Mr Swann has accepted the Pay Review Body recommendations but unfortunately at this time without an executive and an agreed budget he cannot deliver this.

Due to this, the SoR is now consulting on two issues:

• That no pay award is implemented
• The PRB recommended 2022-23 pay award is implemented in NI

PRB recommendation

The PRB recommendation is a £1,400 consolidated pay award for most Agenda for Change HSC staff (note that for the top step point of band 6 and all of band 7 the amount is adjusted to equate to a 4% increase).

“The latest PRB recommendation and subsequent pay award in England and Wales is in essence a pay cut in real terms considering current rising inflation levels. It is important that the government realise that there are major workforce challenges in radiography and this latest pay award does nothing to recruit, retain and attract people into the profession,” says the SoR

“Safe staffing levels are paramount to providing safe and effective care for patients and a fair above inflation pay rise is essential to ensuring retention of the workforce. The recent PRB recommendation falls short of what is required”
 
Members should respond to the consultation here