Health campaigners across Cornwall set to join 'slow clap' protest against 1% NHS pay rise
A union is urging people to join in at 8pm tonight
Health campaigners across Cornwall are set to join a sarcastic "slow handclap" in protest against the 1% pay rise for NHS staff.
People are being asked to stand on their doorsteps and balconies to slow handclap the government over its proposal.
It is a parody of the 'clap for carers' campaign.
The public action – backed by UNISON, health unions and the TUC – is the latest step in the campaign to achieve fair pay for health workers who have worked tirelessly to keep the country safe, says UNISON.
The mass event takes place at 8pm on the first anniversary of the World Health Organisation declaring Covid-19 a global pandemic.
The slow handclap will be repeated three weeks later on 1st April, the day staff were due to have their next wage increase.
The government insists it 'does value' NHS staff but says the increase is all the country can afford.
“This is the chance for the public to call the government out on pay for our incredible health service staff.
“Everyone in the NHS has coped in the toughest conditions this past year. Many have faced the trauma of patients dying, the exhaustion from endless shifts and the strain of chronic understaffing.
“I’ve spoken to porters, to health care assistants, nurses and administration staff across the South West who have all told me how tough the last year has been. It’s been humbling to hear their stories, and we must recognise the commitment they’ve shown and the sacrifices they’ve made.
“The government has shown them zero respect for keeping the NHS on its feet. We must give health staff our support this evening by showing the government exactly what we all think of its 1% pay proposal.”
UNISON South West regional secretary, Joanne Kaye