NHS workers rally outside Glasgow Royal Infirmary amid pay dispute

Meeting outside the Glasgow Royal Infirmary, the group stood firmly against a 5% pay rise offer from the Scottish Government which they argue is not enough to combat the cost-of-living crisis.

Pictured: Frances Carmichael (Image: newsquest)

Frances Carmichael, assistant branch secretary of Unison NHSGGC and CVS, said: “We’re here today to send a message to the Scottish Government.

“The 5% that they’ve put on the table is just not enough.

“The cost-of-living crisis is causing prices to rise and people can’t afford to eat.

“They’re going to work but are still in poverty. We need more.”

Many at the protest spoke openly about their concerns over how they would make ends meet without a revised pay offer from the Scottish Government.

newsquest (Image: newsquest)

Using herself as an example, Frances said: “The 5% for me, as a band four worker, works out at £20 a week.

“That will not cover my bills."

Throughout the rally, a number of NHS workers made use of their lunch breaks to join Unison members who lined the streets outside the hospital while chanting: “What do we want? Fair pay. When do we want it? Now.”

newsquest (Image: newsquest)

Frances said: “We need to bring the salary up to attract more staff.

"The staffing shortage is unbelievable.

“Today is a small demonstration and we’ve asked workers to join us for five minutes on their break if they can.

“There are minimal staff numbers in the wards at the moment and we really appreciate that everyone is working hard with the resources they have.”

newsquest (Image: newsquest)

A duo of campaigners dressed as post boxes for the demonstration while Postman Pat masks were handed out to remind union members that they have until Monday, October 31 to return their ballot for strike action.

newsquest (Image: newsquest)

More than 50% of members will have to post their ballot in favour of industrial action if strikes are to take place.

Also amongst the crowds were representatives for the RMT union and Dave Moxham, deputy general secretary of the Scottish Trades Union Congress.

newsquest (Image: newsquest)

He said: “These are the people who brought us through the pandemic and now they’re facing a further crisis.

“We need to pay them properly.

“To have the opportunity to join them and look out for their need for fair pay is a real privilege and I’m glad to be here today.”

The Scottish Government was contacted for comment.