Members were asked to be forgiving of any mistakes the union has made.
The head of the Royal College of Nursing has called upon nursing staff to unite in the fight for fair pay.
Speaking to RCN members this evening, RCN General Secretary & Chief Executive Pat Cullen spoke passionately about the negative effect fractures in the profession were having.
Ms Cullen told members that both RCN staff and elected leaders had been subjected to a large amount of abuse on social media, accusations of bribes, and even received “death threats” from members who were upset about the union recommending the deal.
Acting chair of RCN Council Maggy Heaton went on to explain that the deal was recommended based upon a worry some struggling members would “miss out” on the immediate financial benefit but insisted the union supported the decision of members.
Ms Cullen later asked members to be forgiving of any mistakes the union has made and pledged that they were fighting for the interests of the nursing profession.
Forced back to the picket line.
It comes just hours after the union announced its members had rejected the proposed NHS pay deal. Next month RCN members will take all-out strike action from 8pm on 30 April to 8pm on 2 May.
In a letter to Steve Barclay, Ms Cullen explains: “What has been offered to date is simply not enough. The government needs to increase what has already been offered and we will be highly critical of any move to reduce it.
“Until there is a significantly improved offer, we are forced back to the picket line. Meetings alone are not sufficient to prevent strike action and I will require an improved offer as soon as possible. In February, you opened negotiations directly with me and I urge you to do the same now.
“After a historic vote to strike, our members expect a historic pay award.”
Addressing members directly, Ms Cullen said earlier today, “I want to congratulate you on your resolve throughout this consultation. The level of participation in this ballot is record-breaking – this is exactly how we’ll continue to shape this profession for the better and make the voice of nursing impossible to ignore.
Before adding, “I have heard you and I’m prouder than ever to be led by you in the campaign for fair pay.
