Many newly qualified paramedics in the East of England are beginning to see an increase in their pay this month after fighting together for better banding.
UNISON supported staff to put a collective grievance in against the trust over the newly qualified paramedic (NQP) role. When the role was introduced in 2016, it was agreed that NQPs would be on band five for a two-year “consolidation of learning” period to display the knowledge, in order to go up to band six.
NQPs complained that there were unfair and unnecessary delays to the process that were leaving them out of pocket.
The difference between band five and the bottom of band six is around £3,500 after five years.
UNISON reps were able to start negotiations with the trust to sort out the issue.
Managers agreed that all cases would be individually reviewed by a board made up of representatives of the trust and UNISON, which could accelerate paramedics through band six if delays were not their fault and they can show an attempt to progress.
Progress is also being made on speeding medical technicians and apprentices through pay grades where they should be on higher point in their band.
UNISON EEAS acting convenor Hugo Brice said: “This is great news for hundreds of newly qualified paramedics at the East of England Ambulance Service who were losing out on pay rise due to delays not of their making.
“The credit for leading on this issue really needs to go to Ben, a representative from Hertfordshire.
“By standing together in UNISON and forcing the employer to act, we’re putting thousands of pounds into ambulance workers’ pockets. It shows once again how important it is to join your union and get involved to make change for the better.”
