Nine out of ten NHS nurses have rejected the government’s 3.6% pay rise for this year, raising the threat of strike action later in 2025 if demands for better wages and working conditions are not met. In a major warning to ministers, the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) said nurses have made their dissatisfaction clear and that the government must act during the summer to avoid further industrial unrest.
In an indicative vote by RCN members across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, 91% of participants said the 3.6% pay increase was inadequate. The union has now urged ministers to negotiate urgently or face formal escalation, which could lead to a nationwide strike ballot.
RCN Warns of Escalation if Demands Are Ignored
The RCN described the outcome as the largest consultation in its history. More than 170,000 nurses in England took part, with 56% turnout. “This award will not fix the NHS staffing crisis,” said RCN General Secretary Professor Nicola Ranger, adding that years of stagnant pay and limited promotion opportunities have severely impacted the profession.
She continued: “To avoid formal escalation, the government must keep its promise and negotiate reforms to the outdated NHS pay structure that leaves nurses stuck in the same pay band throughout their careers.”
Public Divided as Government Defends Pay Offer
The Department of Health and Social Care expressed disappointment over the result. A spokesperson noted that the latest pay award brings starting salaries for full-time nurses to £30,000, after two consecutive above-inflation increases. “We value the dedication of nurses, and our 10-year plan aims to rebuild the NHS for patients and staff alike,” the statement added.
However, polling by YouGov revealed a divided public. While 47% of Britons said they would support nurses going on strike over pay, 43% expressed opposition, showing the public remains split over further walkouts in the NHS.
Nurses Previously Took Industrial Action in 2022 and 2023
This latest dispute echoes previous stoppages in late 2022 and early 2023, when RCN members walked out over similar pay-related concerns. The current challenge poses a political test for Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who is also dealing with ongoing strikes from junior doctors demanding a 29% pay increase.
The RCN has signaled willingness to discuss pay structure reform, career development, and working conditions—but only if ministers engage seriously. Without progress, strike action by nurses could return before the end of the year.
