All eligible RCN members can now vote to accept or reject the latest NHS offer from the Welsh government, at rcn.org.uk/WalesConsultation
The latest offer comes in addition to the pay awards already implemented for 2022-23 and 2023-24. It includes measures to improve pay for bank shifts, career progression, flexible working and minimising corridor care.
As well as reading the latest offer in full, members are urged to consider what the pay package already includes.
The latest offer is on top of an additional 1.5% consolidated pay increase and 1.5% non-consolidated pay increase for 2022-23, a further one-off payment averaging 3% for 2022-23 and a 5% consolidated increase for 2023-24, which has already been implemented. The full details can be read again here.
The RCN is not making a recommendation on how members should vote in this ballot – members must consider their own personal circumstances and how the offer will affect them. However, this is an offer in principle and it will only be implemented if members accept it.
If it’s decided the offer is accepted, our current dispute will be resolved, and we will start to focus on securing the best possible NHS pay award for 2024-25.
The latest offer comes after the RCN announced a fresh strike ballot and strike action that was due to take place this month. This was paused when the Welsh government agreed to further negotiations.
RCN Wales Director Helen Whyley said: “This ballot is a critical point in our campaign for the fair pay and conditions members deserve. Thanks to their efforts, we’ve been able to bring the Welsh government back to the table for a third time and improve on the pay deal for both 2022-23 and 2023-24 yet again. Members should be in no doubt that their voice and their vote have real impact.
“We want our members to make an informed decision based on their own circumstances, and whether they believe this improved offer will ease the pressures they face in their working lives. Theelements improved upon in this offer aim to address nursing staff’s wellbeing, work-life balance, pay for bank shifts, career progression and much more.
“I want to stress the importance of voting either way in this ballot; a vote not used is a vote wasted and a voice not heard. I strongly encourage members to vote as soon as they receive their ballot and use all the resources available to reach a decision”.
How to cast your vote
To vote online, members will need to log in to MyRCN . Members can log in with their membership number or the email address that they used to register with, as well as their password which can be reset if needed. It is also essential that members' records show they are employed by the NHS for their vote to be counted.
Your vote will not be counted if you submit your response after 12 noon on 31 August. If you vote more than once, only your last vote will be counted.
If you need more information or support
Visit our FAQs to find answers to the most common questions about the ballot.Join our live Q&A taking place tomorrow 1 August at 6pm where you can ask your questions directly to RCN representatives. There’s no need to book, just visit the events section of our website and join on the day by using the link included.
