Contractors, including cleaners, caterers, and security guards, are currently striking outside mental health facility Prospect Park Hospital in Reading, England, over a pay dispute, it has been reported. The key point is that ISS, not the NHS employ these striking workers, and the dispute is regarding a one-off payment that was offered to NHS staff directly employed by the Berkshire Healthcare NHS Trust.
Here’s a summary of the situation:
- Reason for strike: ISS is refusing to pay a one-off sum that was given to NHS staff on Agenda for Change pay scales. “The amount of at least £1,655 formed part of a deal struck for all staff on NHS contracts and Agenda for Change pay scales in June 2023,” the BBC reported.
- Who is striking: Contractors employed by ISS, not NHS staff.
- Impact on you: It is unclear if this dispute will affect contractors at other NHS facilities managed by ISS.
Here’s what you should do:
- Stay informed: Keep an eye on news updates and communications from your agency or ISS regarding the situation.
- Contact your agency: If you have any questions or concerns, contact your agency for clarification on how this situation might affect you.
- Be aware of potential disruptions: While the NHS trust claims to have plans in place to ensure service continuity, there might be potential disruptions at Prospect Park Hospital due to the strike.
It’s important to remember that this is an isolated incident at a specific hospital and may not affect you directly. However, it’s always good practice to stay informed about such developments, especially if you work as an agency contractor for the NHS.
