In a consultation of members, between 27 August and 20 September, just over half of eligible RCN members in Scotland responded. Of those, 61% voted to accept the offer. A significant minority voted to reject the offer, a demonstration of continued frustration and concern about the nursing workforce crisis facing Scotland’s NHS.
At a meeting of the joint health trade unions today (23 September), the majority of the health trade unions reported that members had accepted the offer of a 5.5% pay increase for 2024-25.
The results of the consultations have also been reported to the Scottish government and NHS employers. The Scottish government is expected to confirm that the pay uplift will be applied to October salaries with the backdated element (to 1 April 2024) paid in November.
Julie Lamberth, Chair, RCN Scotland Board said: “I’d like to thank all our members who cast their vote in the consultation for their participation. We decided it was right for you, our members, to make the decision on this offer and you have had your say. We rely on understanding your strength of feeling on pay offers to inform the next steps.
“The 5.5% pay increase does not make up for the years of being undervalued but it is another step on the journey to fair pay. Our campaign continues. We know the lack of recognition and relentless pressure on our NHS services has left many considering their future in the profession. The link between low pay, staff shortages and patient safety remains.”
Colin Poolman, RCN Scotland Director, said: “This increase is long overdue, and we are pleased the Scottish government and NHS employers have confirmed the uplift will appear in October salaries and that backpay will be received in November. We have made it clear that we expect the Scottish government to be better prepared to enter negotiations in a timely fashion for 2025-26.
“There is still much to do to ensure the safety critical role of nursing is recognised and rewarded. Further reform of Agenda for Change is needed. The Scottish government must also deliver on its commitments to the review of Band 5 nursing roles, the shorter working week and protected time for learning and back the Nursing and Midwifery Taskforce with the financial resources to deliver change.”
