Talks must be backed with real money on the table
Commenting on the announcement Wednesday 22nd April 2026, that NHS pay structure reform talks will start later this month, UNISON head of health and chair of the joint health unions Helga Pile said:
“Unions have been calling for talks to fix pay for months. Getting these in place is a step forward, albeit a year and a half after they were promised.
“NHS workers have been deeply disappointed by this year’s 3.3% pay award, which has already been overtaken by inflation. But there’s now the prospect it could be improved through addressing longstanding problems with the pay structure.
“There’s a lot riding on these talks. Real money on the table from government will be key.
“Ministers must show they value the staff who’ll be critical to getting the NHS back on track.”
