Recommended 5.5% pay rise approved for nurses in Wales
Posted 11 September 2024 - 13:55
Government’s acceptance of Pay Review Body figure receives tepid response from RCN Wales, which will now ask members if it’s enough
Nursing staff in Wales are set to receive a 5.5% pay rise after recommendations by the NHS Pay Review Body (RB) were formally accepted in full by the Welsh Government.
NHS Wales staff working on Agenda for Change (AfC) terms and conditions will be awarded the rise for 2024-25, backdated to 1 April, in line with NHS staff in England. As well as the rise, the government also indicated it would commit to adding new pay points for band 8 roles, as recommended by the RB.
All staff will receive the award in their pay packets later this year
First minister Eluned Morgan said: ‘People across Wales have told us over the summer that public sector workers are the backbone of the services we all rely on – from the nurses in our NHS to teachers in classrooms across Wales.
‘They want them to be fairly rewarded for the vital work they do. These pay awards reflect how we value them and respect their hard work.’
All staff will receive the award in their pay packets later this year. Meanwhile, members of the RCN Wales board are meeting to consider the award and discuss the next steps, including how to consult with members.
RCN members in Wales are being encouraged to log in to the RCN website to check for updates.
Nurses’ wages still won’t reflect the critical role they play, says RCN Wales
In England, RCN members are currently being consulted on the government’s offer in an online vote open until 16 September, in which they are asked whether they wish to accept or reject the pay award.
In Scotland, members are being asked the same question after a 5.5% pay offer was negotiated between trade unions and the Scottish Government directly. Members have until 20 September to take part.
Responding to the announcement, RCN Wales director Helen Whyley said: ‘Nurses are the ever-present, safety critical workforce across the whole of health and care. Our wages do not reflect that, and still won’t after today. We will be pushing the Welsh Government to show us their plans for improving NHS pay – it is vital to recruit and retain nursing staff.
‘We will consult with our members on whether they see today’s statement as enough of a start on this pay journey.’
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