Results of RCN pay poll revealed

The results of the RCN pay poll have been revealed - with nearly eight out of ten respondents saying they would be prepared to take strike action.

More than 52,000 RCN members working in the NHS took part in the indicative poll, which measured appetite for industrial action after below inflation pay rises were announced in England, Scotland and Wales for the 2017-18 pay round.

The results of the three-week poll, announced at RCN congress in Liverpool, revealed 91% of members would take industrial action short of strike over the 1% pay cap, with 78% saying they were prepared to strike.

Unfair approach

Some 97% said the government's approach to nursing pay is unfair.

While the turnout was not enough to mandate a formal ballot, RCN chair of council Michael Brown told congress: 'Getting 52,000 NHS members taking part shows the strength of feeling about pay restraint – and the percentage in favour of taking action cannot be ignored.'

Significant turnout

He added: 'We had a significant turnout of 52,434.

'97% said the government approach to nursing pay is unfair. I don't need to tell you that is a huge rejection of their austerity.

'91% said they were willing to take some form of industrial action,' Mr Brown said, receiving applause.

'78% said they were willing to take strike action. That's a significant result congress.'

Emergency resolution

Mr Brown praised the turnout, but added the college now needed to reach those members who didn't vote.