UNISON has called off its strike ballot after the Scottish government promised to pay a £500 health workers "thank you" payment for working during the pandemic. 

The public sector union had protested over pay earlier this year. 

Yesterday, the First Minister announced that all NHS workers would be paid £500 in a one-off show of gratitude for their work over the pandemic. 

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The union has claimed the move as a "victory" for workers and called off a ballot due to begin today. 

Members were campaigning for a flat rate pay rise for all workers and for the Scottish government to re-open wage discussions. 

Tam Waterston, chair of Unison Scotland’s health committee, said: “Unison was the only union calling for money in the pockets of health workers this year and we welcome the Scottish government’s commitment to keep its promise and to pay up now for Scotland’s health workers.

“Industrial action was always a last resort for our members and this announcement shows the power of being in a union and what can be achieved as the result of a strong and powerful campaign.

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“These are just ordinary people thrust into an extraordinary situation who have gone above and beyond to look after us during this unprecedented crisis. Unison will continue to work with the Scottish government to ensure NHS staff receive this payment as quickly as possible.”

The Scottish government has been approached for comment.