Health

Unions close to pay deal with government to avert more NHS strikes

Unions representing NHS staff are close to reaching a deal with the government to avert further strikes over pay and conditions.

The deal, which is said to have been approved by the government, will be put to union members in a ballot next week. It is expected to be accepted, paving the way for an end to months of industrial action.

The agreement is believed to include a pay rise of up to 6.5%, a review of working conditions and a commitment to tackle the issue of low staffing levels.

The deal comes after months of talks between unions and the government, which had been deadlocked over the issue of pay. Unions had been demanding a 12% pay rise for NHS staff, while the government had offered a 1% rise.

The government is keen to avoid further disruption to the NHS, particularly in light of the pandemic. Last year, workers staged a series of strikes over pay and conditions, which caused disruption to hospital services.

Unions have welcomed the agreement, saying it is a “significant step forward” in giving NHS staff the pay and conditions they deserve.

The deal is expected to be put to a ballot of union members next week. If approved, it will provide a much-needed boost to the morale of NHS staff and help to ensure that the NHS is able to continue to provide vital services to the public.