Workers at Barnsley Hospital voting on strike action over new contracts
The GMB alleges workers are being stripped of their right to a paid break on shift.
Last updated 3 hours ago
Around 600 workers at Barnsley Hospital NHS Trust have started a vote on whether or not to strike, over the loss of paid breaks.
The GMB claims bosses at the trust want to impose new contacts on nurses, technicians and clerical workers, stripping them of a 20 minute paid break while on shift.
Joe Wheatley, GMB Organiser, said: “Barnsley NHS workers are angry. And rightly so."
“They do a vital job looking after our community - they don’t deserve to have their breaks ripped away and worse contracts forced on them.
“Trust bosses must listen to their staff and change course. If not, they could be facing walkouts soon.”
A spokesperson for Barnsley Hospital NHS Trust said:
“We continue to engage in discussions with colleagues, GMB and other trade unions with a view to resolving this matter.
“Staff wellbeing is a priority for the Trust. Over 1100 staff have already agreed to revised terms of employment which bring them in line with nationally agreed terms and conditions for staff in the NHS.”
The strike ballot closes on April 10.