'Enough is enough', say nurses amid strike threat

NURSES in Greater Manchester could be joining the biggest-ever national action over a pay dispute.

- HELENA VESTY

Although votes are still being counted, Royal College of Nursing officials believe there are enough members backing winter industrial action, it is understood.

Regional director for the RCN in the North-West, Estephanie Dunn, said: “Our officers, reps and volunteers have been out and about talking to our members and they have made their feelings clear. Enough is enough.”

A possible vote to strike has been met with support from both the public and political leaders, including Greater Manchester mayor, Andy Burnham, who has said ‘the people of Greater Manchester are right behind’ nurses.

M.E.N. readers have also pointed out the apparent support shown by politicians during the ‘clap for carers’ era of the Covid-19 lockdown, calling on the government to follow through.

But others have raised concerns about the impact strike action would have on patients and the NHS.

The healthcare system is already under huge pressure – with hospitals often admitting that they are suffering unprecedented demand on A&E departments, and ambulance services around the country declaring high alerts because capacity is being far outstripped.

Union officials say that since the Conservatives took power in 2010, the pay of some experienced nurses has fallen by 20 per cent in real terms, according to reports.