Thousands of low–paid health workers employed by private company Medirest are to get a pay rise, says UNISON today (Friday).
The 2,200 staff, who provide cleaning, portering and catering services in NHS hospitals across England, will see their pay increase by an average of 5 per cent from the beginning of next month.
Hourly rates for the lowest paid workers will rise from around £8.75 to £9.21 an hour, bringing their pay in line with NHS staff doing similar jobs.
UNISON assistant general secretary Christina McAnea said: “These workers, who are among the lowest paid in hospitals, have earned this increase.
“It’s right and proper their dedication and commitment be recognised and rewarded.
“We’re pleased Medirest values their work and have done the right thing by making sure they earn the same as NHS staff.”
Notes to editors:
– UNISON is the UK’s largest union, with more than 1.3 million members providing public services – in education, local government, the NHS, police service and energy. They are employed in the public, voluntary and private sectors.
Media contacts:
Garfield Myrie M: 07778 158175 E: g.myrie@unison.co.uk
Liz Chinchen M: 07778 158175 E: press@unison.co.uk