SHBN Comments on nurse strike action and rejected pay offer

28 July, London – Nurses across England appear likely to reject the government’s 3.6 % pay award, and union leaders warn that a formal strike ballot is likely to follow later this year if negotiations do not resume. The indicative vote conducted by the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) is understood to show overwhelming opposition to the deal.

This comes just as resident doctors are currently engaged in a five‑day strike after turning down a separate 5.4 % increase.

The pay offer for nurses is lower than recent awards for doctors and other public‑sector workers, prompting frustration among nursing staff. The RCN argues that nurses can spend decades on the lowest rung of the NHS pay scale and is pressing for reforms to allow progression as experience grows.

Other groups are also dissatisfied: a committee representing senior doctors is holding an indicative vote on a 4 % pay deal.

From the perspective of the SHBN, adequate staffing and stable morale are essential for a safe working environment. Prolonged disputes can strain resources and affect infection control practices. While the SHBN remains neutral on the pay negotiations, we empathise with healthcare workers who feel undervalued.

We urge all parties to engage in constructive discussions that address both pay and working conditions, helping to ensure healthcare professionals feel safe and supported while delivering care to patients.