Thursday 9 July 2020
For immediate release
An early pay rise would help NHS conquer the Covid backlog, says UNISON
Commenting on the latest figures today (Thursday) from NHS England, which show there are now almost 1.45 million people in England waiting more than 18 weeks for hospital treatment, UNISON head of health Sara Gorton said:
“There’s a long road ahead. For many months the NHS will be working through the backlog of cancelled appointments and operations.
“Thousands more staff are needed if the NHS is to avoid permanent damage. An early pay rise is now a must.
“More money in the pockets of health workers would help the economy, allow the NHS to hold on to experienced staff and attract new recruits. Without it, the NHS faces an unimaginable struggle.”
Notes to editors:
– UNISON is the UK’s largest union, with more than 1.3 million members providing public services – in education, local government, the NHS, police service and energy. They are employed in the public, voluntary and private sectors.
Media contacts:
Liz Chinchen M: 07778 158175 E: press@unison.co.uk
Anthony Barnes M: 07834 864794 E: a.barnes@unison.co.uk