Nurses in England have overwhelmingly voted against the government’s latest pay offer. The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) will soon announce the results of its consultative ballot. Sources confirm that nurses reject the pay deal by a large margin. The proposed 3.6% pay increase sparked outrage among nursing staff. Many argue it fails to match raises given to doctors, teachers, and other public sector workers. The RCN previously called the offer “grotesquely unfair.”
If the government does not reopen negotiations, the RCN may hold a formal strike vote. Any walkouts would likely occur later this year. The union insists ministers must act quickly to prevent further disruption. Turnout in the consultative vote reportedly exceeded the 50% threshold required for industrial action. This strong participation signals deep frustration among nurses. The RCN has urged the government to discuss pay structures and career progression.
A Department of Health spokesperson defended the proposed raise. They highlighted that new nurses now earn £30,000 in basic pay. However, the RCN argues this still falls short of fair compensation. The government claims it cannot increase the headline pay figure. Instead, officials promise to address other concerns like working conditions. Nurses reject this stance, demanding a better deal.
The GMB union, representing ambulance workers, also rejected the 3.6% pay offer. In a recent ballot, 67% of members voted against the proposal. The union has requested an urgent meeting with Health Secretary Wes Streeting. Meanwhile, junior doctors in England continue their five-day strike. The British Medical Association remains locked in a pay dispute with the government. Health leaders warn that prolonged strikes could strain the NHS further.
The RCN will push for summer negotiations to avoid an autumn strike ballot. Nurses reject the current deal but remain open to alternative solutions. The government must decide whether to compromise or face potential walkouts. With tensions rising, the coming weeks will be critical. Both sides must find common ground to prevent another NHS crisis. For now, nurses reject the pay deal—and the threat of strikes looms larger than ever.
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