Why are health workers at Barnsley Hospital considering industrial action?

Health workers are considering industrial action because Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is proposing to impose new contracts that could remove paid breaks and enforce longer unpaid breaks, which the union views as an unfair attack on their terms.

What are the trust's reasons for proposing new contracts?

The trust states the proposals would align them with almost all other NHS hospital trusts and national NHS terms and conditions, aiming to improve patient care, staff wellbeing, and reduce reliance on temporary staff.

What is the union's stance on the proposed contract changes?

The union, GMB, describes the proposed changes as a 'demoralising and unfair attack' on workers' terms and conditions, and over 600 members are set to participate in an industrial action ballot.

Home / Health / NHS Health Workers Threaten Strike Over 'Fire and Rehire'

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.

NHS Health Workers Threaten Strike Over 'Fire and Rehire'

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.