Health branches across the region took part in two days of campaigning on Thursday and Friday, to ask the government for early action on NHS pay.
Branches used social media and took part in socially distanced events to press home the message that health workers deserve much more than applause for their efforts during the pandemic.
Members were asked what a pay rise would mean for them, and their photos and messages were publicised across the region on social media.
UNISON is the biggest union in the NHS, and represents the whole NHS team, including nurses, health care assistants, therapists, paramedics, cleaners, domestics and porters.
Health workers know the public backs an early NHS pay rise, but now want to see the government show its appreciation for staff by bringing forward the pay rise due in April.
UNISON’s pay claim – delivered to Downing Street last month – would see every NHS employee receive an increase of at least £2,000 by the end of the year.
UNISON South East regional secretary Steve Torrance said:
“Investing in the NHS and its incredible staff is a must for the government. It would help the health service tackle the mounting staff shortages that were already causing huge problems even before the virus hit.
“An early pay rise would also be the country’s best way of saying a heartfelt thank you to every single member of the NHS team.”
