Christina McAnea joins striking phlebotomists in Gloucester

UNISON general secretary Christina McAnea (above, centre) joined striking phlebotomists on the picket line in Gloucestershire this morning to show support from the whole union in their fight for fair pay.

Phlebotomists are specialist health workers who take and handle patient blood samples. At present, they are paid at band 2 of the NHS’s Agenda for Change pay scale, but UNISON argues that their knowledge, skills and training equal those of a band 3 worker.

These specialist health workers, most of whom are women, have now spent 118 days on strike. The dispute is believed to be the longest continuous strike in NHS history.

“UNISON members there are strong and determined and it was a privilege to join the picket line this morning,” she said.

“It’s shocking Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust are refusing to pay the phlebotomists fairly for the important jobs they do.”

The phlebotomists began their action in March. Their complaint of being on the wrong grade is a common one and is the key aim of UNISON’s Pay Fair for Patient Care campaign.

UNISON head of health Helga Pile said: “Dozens of trusts have already settled disputes like this. There’s no reason why NHS workers in Gloucestershire should settle for any less than the thousands of employees who’ve already seen their pay improved thanks to their efforts and the union’s campaign.”

The workers are determined to keep up their industrial action until their roles are re-banded.

The article Christina McAnea joins striking phlebotomists in Gloucester first appeared on the UNISON National site.