Responding to the latest NHS England data published today (Thursday) showing the extent of the treatment backlog, UNISON head of health Sara Gorton said:
“Record numbers of people are waiting for treatment, leaving them anxious and often in agony.
“These figures are a clear sign NHS staff will be under considerable pressure for months, if not years, to come.
“Despite the warm words from politicians recognising the exhaustion and burnout experienced by health workers, they’re not going to get the recuperation period they desperately need.
“This is all the more reason for the Prime Minister and new health secretary to give staff the morale-boosting pay rise they need, not the paltry 1% they’ve previously touted. A proper wage rise will give them motivation and will prevent a staff exodus.
“NHS leaders must also recognise the importance of rest by making sure employees are given their leave before the next Covid wave really bites and another difficult winter is upon them.”
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:
Anthony Barnes M: 07834 864794 E: a.barnes@unison.co.uk