NHS workers have called off three days of strike action after securing an improved pay and grading offer from Scotland's largest health board.
Ward clerks employed by NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) had been due to walk out from Monday as part of an ongoing dispute over their pay and grading.
However, Unison confirmed on Friday that the action had been cancelled after workers voted to accept a revised offer from the health board.
The union said the deal represents a pay increase of more than £2000 for the most experienced ward clerks, while workers could also receive up to three years of backpay.
Almost four-fifths (79%) of those who took part in a consultation backed accepting the offer, on a turnout of 86%.
Ward clerks are currently on the lowest NHS pay grade despite, Unison said, carrying out additional duties and playing an essential role in the running of hospitals.
The planned walkout would have been the second wave of industrial action by the workers after ward clerks went on strike earlier this month.
The agreement follows successful action over similar grading disputes involving district nurses and payroll officers employed by NHSGGC.
Unison NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde branch secretary Frances Carmichael said: “I could not be prouder of these staff. They refused to give up on getting the recognition they deserve.
“This shows what workers can achieve when they stand together.”
Unison Scotland regional organiser Lorcan Mullen said the outcome showed the impact industrial action could have for lower-paid NHS staff.
He said: “This great result shows how low-paid NHS workers can make a difference when they stand together, following on from big wins for district nurses and payroll officers in this health board.
“NHS boards shouldn't be forcing loyal, hard-working staff to strike just to be paid fairly, and after this successful action we will be expecting a radical change to the board's approach to rebanding claims.”
NHS boards shouldn’t be forcing loyal, hard-working staff to strike just to be paid fairly, and after this successful action we will be expecting a radical change to the board’s approach to rebanding claims.
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde has been approached for comment.
