NHS pay dispute could lead to strike action across Glasgow hospitals

Ward clerks at Scotland’s largest regional health board have voted overwhelmingly to strike, with 98% backing a walkout in a UNISON ballot.

The dispute centres on pay and grading, with workers calling for an upgrade from the lowest NHS pay band.

Frances Carmichael, branch secretary at UNISON, said: "Strike action is always a last resort, but ward clerks feel they have been left with no other choice.

"These skilled workers are central to keeping hospitals running.

"Without them, doctors and nurses would have to waste time on paperwork when they could be caring for patients.

"The overwhelming vote for strike action shows ward clerks' strength of feeling.

"The health board must listen, recognise their value, and address the longstanding pay and grading concerns."

Clerks and supporters will rally outside the hospital at 10.30am this morning.

UNISON says the dispute follows years of delays by the health board in reviewing the ward clerks' roles.

The union argues that the primarily female workforce is undervalued despite performing "vital" tasks such as organising appointments, coordinating patient transport, and acting as a key point of contact for patients, families, and staff.

Strike action, they warn, would affect every hospital in NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, potentially delaying processing essential paperwork, ordering equipment, and coordinating administrative tasks.

The ballot result comes just months after UNISON secured regrading for Glasgow’s district nurses.

Lorcan Mullen, UNISON regional organiser, said: "UNISON is doing everything to avoid NHS strikes and will continue talks over the coming weeks.

"Ward clerks have reached the end of their patience after years of being undervalued.

"Hospitals rely on a whole team to deliver care, and every employee deserves the right pay for their work."

A spokesperson for NHSGGC said: "NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde greatly values the work of our Ward Clerks and remains committed to working in partnership with them to deliver a high-quality service to our patients.

"We continue to meet with trade unions as we seek a resolution to these matters.

"As an accredited Real Living Wage employer, NHSGGC is committed to fair pay and, as a minimum, pays a wage that is independently calculated based on the cost of living."