I know that my international colleagues are scared of the unknowns of striking, of what might happen if we speak up.
But I also know that this is the only way we have a chance to get the government to listen to us. In Nigeria, where IÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥™m originally from, the government doesnÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥™t listen. Industrial action is an important tool there to make change happen.
Here too, the government hasnÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥™t listened. Diplomacy has failed. WeÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥™ve tried to reason and it hasnÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥™t worked.
By standing up for ourselves and voting for strike action, we show the government that we mean business.
Nursing is one of the most difficult jobs. WeÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥™re dealing with peopleÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥™s lives and the public relies on us. We should be better appreciated and paid for the work we do. Having to work long hours and extra shifts as standard or to make up our salary each month isnÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥™t OK.
Most of all, it impacts patient safety. Taking on too many shifts, not getting enough rest and not having enough staff means patients arenÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥™t safe.
If we can get everyone together, we can go a long way
There are challenges, for sure. But itÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥™s important to recognise weÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥™re not doing anything wrong by advocating for ourselves. Not breaking any codes or patient confidentiality.
IÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥™m definitely voting to strike and feel safe and confident with that choice, knowing itÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥™s the right thing to do and that the RCN is there as the leading voice.
If we can get everyone together and on board, we can go a long way.More information
- Find out more about the Fair Pay for Nursing campaign and how you can get involved.
- Read our industrial action handbook.
