NHS workers to march through Chesterfield over 'pay inequality'

Last month, the Government announced an above-inflation pay rise for nearly one million public sector workers, including teachers, doctors and dentists.

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But nurses, midwives and hospital cleaners are among those who are controversially not included in that wage rise as they are already part of the Agenda for Change (AfC) – a separate three-year pay deal which ends next April.

A national movement – called NHS Workers Say No to Public Sector Pay Inequality – has now been set up with campaigners calling on the Government to bring forward pay negotiations and to implement a 15 per cent wage rise for AfC workers

Peaceful marches are taking place across the country, including in Chesterfield from 11am on August 8.

Placard-waving protesters will begin at Chesterfield Town Hall then weave around the Donut roundabout before heading back to where they started – while wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing.

Matthew Tacey, a lead nurse based in Chesterfield, is organising the town’s protest.

He said: “For years, NHS staff have felt ignored, unappreciated and silenced by our Government.

“The NHS protest marks a period of our lives we will all never forget.

"Many of us will have lost family, friends and colleagues due to the horrific coronavirus.

“Our NHS staff have fought tirelessly to ensure we win the war against Covid-19.

“We are underpaid, under-resourced and overworked.

“We were there for you, will you be there for us?

“Please come and support your local NHS staff so they get the recognition they deserve.

“Everybody is welcome with good intentions.

“PPE and social distancing have to be respected and we appreciate your support.”

A spokesperson for the Department of Health and Social Care said: “We are committed to supporting the entire NHS and social care workforce.

“We are incredibly grateful for all their hard work and dedication during the pandemic and we will continue to ensure all staff are rewarded fairly.”

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