2007 PAY OFFER ACCEPTED

UNISON members in the NHS have voted 2 to 1 in favour of the revised pay offer secured by union negotiators in August.

The deal will put extra cash in the pockets of the lowest paid workers in the NHS. In addition, non-clinical staff will have their training budgets boosted, and clinicians will get money to put towards their training fees - though only in England, where the award is being staged.

Karen Jennings, UNISON head of health, said it was a pragmatic vote."I believe that workers in the health service deserve better - however UNISON said the revised offer was the best that could be achieved through negotiation, and the result shows that members recognised that fact."Members had been told that should they reject the deal, they should also be prepared to support industrial action.However, the union will be seeking more money next year to make up for accepting this year's below-inflation award."We will be making a strong case for a catch-up award,"

Ms Jennings said. "I don't believe health workers will accept a below-inflation pay increase for two years running."In the meantime, the union is determined to improve terms and conditions for NHS staff by making progress over issues such as a reduced working week and better training.

Talks are due to begin soon.UNISON represents 450,000 members in the NHS including nurses, paramedics, healthcare assistants, cleaners, cooks, porters, administrative staff and therapists. 68.8% voted for and 31.2% against the offer.

STAFF BENEFIT DAY

The Trust is holding a staff benefit day on Friday 21st of September. Northumbria Healthcare UNISON will have a stall at the event. Why not visit our stall, talk to our reps and officers, get questions answered, help yourself to freebies and take part in our free draw?