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NHS Health Workers Threaten Strike Over 'Fire and Rehire'
28 Jan
Summary
- Hundreds of health workers may ballot for strike action.
- Union claims trust wants to impose worse contracts and remove paid breaks.
- Barnsley Hospital Trust states proposals align with national NHS terms.
Hundreds of health workers at Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust are poised to participate in an industrial action ballot. The GMB union reports that over 600 members, encompassing nurses, technicians, and clerical staff, may vote on strike action in the coming weeks.
The union alleges the trust intends to implement new contracts, eliminate paid breaks, and enforce longer unpaid breaks. GMB organiser Rachel Dix characterized these proposed changes as a "demoralising and unfair attack" on the workers' terms and conditions.
A spokesperson for Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust stated that the proposed changes would align the trust with nearly all other NHS hospital trusts and with national NHS terms and conditions. They argue this would enhance patient care and safety by increasing staff on duty and reducing reliance on temporary staff.
The trust added that an eight-month consultation period with affected staff and trade unions has been conducted and is ongoing. The spokesperson noted that the GMB had not formally notified the trust of its intention to ballot for industrial action, as required.
The trust emphasized its commitment to staff wellbeing and ensuring adequate rest breaks to mitigate fatigue and maintain health, in line with best practices and national NHS conditions. Any industrial action would require a separate ballot to be held.
