Leeds Hospital Staff Strike Again Over Low Pay

Hospital workers in Leeds are set to strike for the third time over pay disputes. Theatre assistants across three sites managed by Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust are scheduled to walk out for five days, commencing on Monday. The union, Unison, asserts that these employees, despite conducting crucial clinical tasks like sample collection and machinery assistance, are classified at the lowest pay grade within the NHS.

This upcoming action follows previous strikes: a five-day walkout last month and a 48-hour strike in December. Unison argues that the trust's stance on pay is inconsistent with agreements made by over 100 other NHS trusts in England and Wales since 2021, which have resulted in substantial regrading and back pay deals for many healthcare support workers. The union emphasizes that fair compensation can be achieved through renewed negotiations.

Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust acknowledged the situation, with its chief medical officer stating that efforts are underway to minimize disruption to patient care during the strike periods. The trust also reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring staff feel valued and have avenues to voice their concerns. The union believes that by returning to the negotiating table, managers can avert further industrial action and ensure staff are compensated appropriately for their essential roles.