Wiltshire hospitals warning as healthcare workers take strike action
Disruption is expected today
Healthcare workers at Wiltshire’s community hospitals are striking today in a row over pay.
Staff employed by Wiltshire Health and Care who are part of the Unison union say they’re being denied a pay rise worth more than £1,655 that has been paid to other NHS workers.
Nurses, occupational therapists, care coordinators, healthcare assistants and physios at community hospitals in Chippenham, Devizes, Melksham, Savernake, Trowbridge and Warminster are walking out for 24 hours.
The union claims Wiltshire Health and Care is refusing to honour a one-off bonus agreed as part of a deal made in June for workers on NHS contracts.
UNISON South West regional organiser Jayne Jackson said: “Wiltshire Health and Care staff wear an NHS uniform and are key to keeping services in the county running.
“They deserve proper recognition for their hard work and that means being paid fairly. The employer’s failure to pay the bonus has left staff with no alternative but to strike.
“The lump sum would make all the difference to staff. It would also make financial sense for Wiltshire Health and Care as the extra cash could be just the thing to persuade them not to quit the firm for good.”
Wiltshire Health and Care has warned of potential disruption at hospitals in Trowbridge, Chippenham and Warminster today during the 24-hour walkout.
They say action is likely to impact some of their services today, and that it may be necessary to cancel some appointments but patients will be contacted.
Shirley-Ann Carvill, managing director of Wiltshire Health and Care said: “Patient safety remains our top priority and we have robust business continuity plans in place to ensure we can continue to deliver care and support to those who need it most.
During the strike and with support from system partners, we will continue to deliver our services and provide safe care to our patients but with a reduced staffing level.”