Healthcare support workers (HCSWs) in Wales will receive a pay rise following an agreement between trade unions, NHS employers and the Welsh government.
The agreement, which was negotiated through the Welsh Partnership Forum, addresses concerns that some HCSWs have been carrying out responsibilities beyond their original job descriptions without appropriate remuneration.
As a result, around 6,000 HCSWs have been re-banded from band two to band three in recognition of the clinical duties they perform, ensuring fair pay for the patient care work they do.
Under the new framework, all eligible band two HCSWs will be assessed and re-banded to band three if their duties align. Staff who have been performing band three duties prior to re-banding will receive backdated pay and recognition payments.
The Welsh government has committed funding to support the agreement.
Helen Whyley, executive director for RCN Wales, said: “Our members have been clear for years that the system was relying on their advanced skills without proper recognition. This is not just a pay uplift; it’s a long overdue correction of value, respect and fairness for a workforce that is crucial to safe and effective patient care. We will continue to hold employers to account to ensure this agreement is delivered swiftly and consistently across Wales.”
Jackie Davies, board chair for RCN Wales and vice chair of the RCN Trade Union Committee, added: “Staff must get clear guidance, fair assessments and the pay they are owed. We welcome this agreement and are pleased that the Welsh government has stepped in to make sure that our members, who have fought tirelessly for fair pay, are finally recognised.”
Jeremy Miles, cabinet secretary for health and social care, said: “This national approach demonstrates our shared commitment to supporting the NHS workforce and ensuring staff are properly and fairly rewarded for the work they do. This will help ensure job roles align with the appropriate pay bands, supporting fair working conditions for all NHS Wales staff.”
