Ambulance strikes suspended as pay talks with government set for this week

As reported by the BBC, Unite members have paused their strikes as the government promises offer of new money in salary negotiations

Strikes have been called off after the Unite union has announced it will partake in salary negotiations with the government.

“Following further assurances from the government over the weekend Unite has in good faith agreed to pause the strike action,” says Gail Cartmail, Unite head of operations.

The government has apparently confirmed that any deal offered to the union will entail higher pay rises as well as proper working conditions for staff.

Cartmail has advised that strikes would be resumed should the government not hold up their end of the bargain.

“We’re pleased that unions representing the majority of ambulance workers, nurses, physiotherapists, porters, cleaners and other non-medical staff have agreed to pause strikes and enter a process of intensive talks,” says a spokesperson from the Department of Health and Social Care.

While Unison and the GMB have also called off their strikes due to the government’s possible offer of a one-off-cost-of-living payment, the RCN has paused theirs to enter negotiations with health secretary, Steve Barclay.

Junior doctors however will still be striking on March 13th, 14th and 15th.