Ward clerks employed by NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde have voted overwhelmingly for strike action in a dispute over pay and grading, says UNISON today (Monday).
The ballot showed 98% voted in favour of a walkout, following years of delays by the health board in reviewing their roles.
Around 100 ward clerks and supporters are to hold a rally tomorrow (Tuesday) morning outside the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital at 10.30am. They’ll highlight their frustration at the lack of progress and call for a fair resolution to the dispute.
UNISON says these essential staff – most of whom are women – should have their pay upgraded.
They’re on the lowest NHS pay grade despite playing a vital role in the daily running of hospitals. Their duties include organising appointments, co-ordinating patient transport and acting as a key point of contact for patients, relatives and staff.
UNISON says strike action by ward clerks would affect every hospital in NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde. The dispute could lead to delays in processing essential paperwork, ordering equipment and coordinating administrative tasks, adds the union.
The ballot result comes just months after UNISON secured regrading for Glasgow’s district nurses.
UNISON branch secretary Frances Carmichael said: “Strike action is always a last resort, but ward clerks feel they have been left with no other choice.
“These skilled workers are central to keeping hospitals running. Without them, doctors and nurses would have to waste time on paperwork when they could be caring for patients.
“The overwhelming vote for strike action shows ward clerks’ strength of feeling. The health board must listen, recognise their value and address the longstanding pay and grading concerns.”
UNISON regional organiser Lorcan Mullen said: “UNISON is doing everything to avoid NHS strikes and will continue talks over the coming weeks. Ward clerks have reached the end of their patience after years of being undervalued.
“Hospitals rely on a whole team to deliver care and every employee deserves the right pay for their work.”
Notes to editors:
– UNISON will tomorrow (Tuesday) hold a rally with ward clerks at 10.30am outside the main entrance to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, 1345 Govan Road, Govan, Glasgow, G51 4TF.
– UNISON is Scotland’s largest public service union and the largest union within the NHS.