RCM to consult members over strike action

The RCM is to survey and consult midwives about taking industrial action, should pension negotiations with the government collapse.

The news comes following a meeting between unions on 25 August to discuss the first ever NHS-wide strike.


RCM employment relations advisor Denise Linay said: ‘We are going to survey our members, ask their opinions and will hopefully be able to gauge what members think about taking industrial action.

‘We will be doing a series of briefings on the pension scheme so members have got up-to-date information on what is happening.

‘We are still in the early stages and there will be a certain amount of time before we consider industrial action.’

Unions representing midwives, doctors, nurses, administrators and cleaners gathered for the meeting at Unison’s headquarters in London.


Among the issues discussed were the provision of emergency cover and whether strikes would breach some workers’ contracts.


NHS trade unions have now set up a pensions campaign group and have jointly released the following statement: ‘The unions remain committed to pension negotiations and expect the government to reciprocate and not set out unrealistic timetables or ultimatums.

‘One of the clear aims of the campaign group is to ensure that patient
safety remains paramount.

‘The group will look at all issues relating to the pensions negotiations, including the possibility of industrial action in the event that the talks fail to make progress.’


Talks between union leaders and ministers over pension reforms are due to continue until October, but there is currently no sign of an agreement being reached.


The Department of Health said ‘constructive’ pension reform talks will continue and the NHS pension would remain strong even after the reforms, which would protect the lowest-paid workers.