NHS Trade Unions’ Blueprint for Return

As we enter what could be the start of a gradual easing of lockdown restrictions, discussion has turned to how the NHS restarts those services that were stepped down during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Given the pressure that staff have been under and the risk to their health and well-being – and that […]

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NHS Pension Scheme – Age Discrimination update

The government is developing proposals to address the unlawful age discrimination identified by the Court of Appeal in the 2015 reforms to the Judicial and Firefighters’ pension schemes. More information on the ruling and its implications for the NHS Pension Scheme can be found here: https://www.unison.org.uk/health-news/2020/01/latest-pension-age-discrimination-ruling/ The government has already announced it will take steps […]

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Annual Leave Guidance during the COVID-19 Pandemic

LAS members will have seen the publication on Friday 8th May, by our People and Culture (P&C) colleagues, of the attached document answering some frequently asked questions on the subject of annual leave. Our Branch officers had some discussions with our management prior to the publication of this document, on certain areas of the text […]

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There for You launches COVID-19 response fund

New fund will help members facing particular need because of the pandemic There for You is UNISON’s unique charity, set up to help members in difficulties – and this year, the COVID-19 crisis is making life harder for many of our already-stretched members. Carol Sewell is a trustee for the charity – and a member […]

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Loss of a Much Loved Paramedic & Former UNISON rep Yesterday

Such sad news yesterday to hear about our wonderful and much loved colleague Ben Woodhart, who died suddenly and unexpectedly at home. Paramedic, Clinical Researcher, Mentor and former UNISON Rep, Ben was always so positive and passionate about the service and the job. His enthusiasm couldn’t help but rub off onto the rest of us. […]

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Impact of Covid-19 on Black staff in the NHS

The disproportionate impact of Covid-19, and the response to it, is a matter of concern for the whole union. We urgently await the analysis and report from the Public Health England Ethnicity Review which is looking at the impact in the general population (due end May). It is hoped that learning from the Review will […]

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Member update from UNISON Ambulance

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) UNISON advice to ambulance members on PPE: Individual risk assessments should be the main factor in deciding your level of PPE. A minimum of level 2 PPE (disposable gloves, disposable apron, fluid repellent surgical mask, eye protection (if risk of splashing)) is recommended to use for all patients. Don’t put yourself […]

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