For the first time in our history the RCN is asking NHS nursing staff in England, Scotland and Wales to go on strike, alongside HSC nursing staff in Northern Ireland, who took strike action in 2019.
We don’t do this lightly, any industrial action is a last resort, but as workers struggling to afford the basic necessities of warmth and food we are at last resorts.
Any industrial action is a last resort
This is of even greater importance to nursing support workers, who are not only among the lowest paid in the health service but are some of the lowest paid in our society.
Many will be concerned about the impact strikes may have on patients. The RCN will never put patients at risk and every effort will be made to ensure that planned strikes are safe.
Every day the chronic underfunding of our health service puts patients, our friends and family members at risk. Every year without a meaningful pay award deepens this harm.
If you're eligible to vote in this ballot, it's vitally important you do. I strongly urge you to vote yes to strike action. The RCN is here to support you. Our historic strike fund of £50m is there to support you on the picket line.
Costs are rising, and the winter months are just around the corner. Without adequate pay, many of us will soon be facing far more unpleasant decisions than whether to strike, many already are.
We are a large group with the power to bring about change
Nursing staff are the most trusted people in our society. We are also a large group with the power to bring about change, and it’s time we used that power.
It’s time to strike.
More information
- Find out more about the Fair Pay for Nursing campaign and how you can get involved.
- Read our industrial action handbook and FAQs.
