RCN to set up industrial action fund

The Royal College of Nursing has set up industrial action fund in the fight for fair pay following the government’s recommendation to the NHS Pay Review Body of a one per cent pay award for NHS staff.

In an emergency meeting following the announcement, the RCN Council voted unanimously for the RCN to immediately set up a £35 million industrial action fund.  A strike fund is an amount of money that can be used to support workers, who are members of a trade union, to provide some compensation for loss of earnings and campaigning during industrial action.

RCN Council is determined to have the finances available to members should they wish to take action. In setting up this fund, the RCN will create the UK’s largest union strike fund overnight. The next steps will be decided in conjunction with members.

Commenting on the government’s submission, RCN Chief Executive & General Secretary Dame Donna Kinnair said: “This is pitiful and bitterly disappointing. The government is dangerously out of touch with nursing staff, NHS workers and the public.  

“It is not a done deal, but the government has revealed its hand for the first time. With the time remaining before the Pay Review Body recommendation, the government can expect a backlash from a million NHS workers. Taxpayers are supportive of a significant and fair pay rise for NHS workers – this year of all years.”

The RCN’s Fair Pay For Nursing campaign is calling for a fully funded 12.5 per cent pay increase for all nursing staff covered by Agenda for Change terms, as part of a one-year deal that applies equally to all bands.