Glasgow hospital to take away break room from NHS staff

Around 80 porters at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital have been told they will no longer have their break room with a fridge, microwave, or sink.

It is believed the room could instead be used as a storage for beds and chairs, according to staff.

They have currently been offered another smaller room without facilities and encouraged to use the canteen instead.

The staff member told the Glasgow Times: “Morale is very low now because we find it disgusting that they are getting away with it.

“We work 12-hour shifts and nights, we deserve a proper place to rest with a sink and fridge. It is simply the bare minimum they are refusing to let us have.

“We have been told to go sit in the canteen but you can’t relax there or get a seat, never mind a microwave.

“Some porters rely on the staff room fridge for medication as well but that has been ignored.

“They are treating us like the lowest of the low, that is how they thank us for pandemic years.”

Around 80 porters share the staff room at different times of day (Image: Newsquest)

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde said talks are already underway to resolve the issue.

Meanwhile, unions have got involved as there is “considerable concern” which triggered the formal complaint.

Karen Leonard, GMB Scotland organiser, confirmed discussions with management are ongoing.

She said: “The porters are crucial to the good running of the hospital and the importance of their work cannot be overestimated.

“Their proposed removal from a room where they can take a proper break has prompted considerable concern and a formal complaint.

“Discussions with the management are continuing and we would hope suitable and acceptable arrangements can be made as quickly as possible.”

A spokesperson for NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde said: “Management is aware and discussions are already underway with QEUH porters while an alternative arrangement, that supports their needs with the appropriate facilities, is being sourced.

“We thank them for their patience while this is organised.

“Staff breaks are phased so as rooms are never overcrowded, and the full contingent of staff are never on shift at the same time.”