Hospital operating theatre staff in Leeds are set to vote on strike action in a dispute over backdated pay, raising concerns of disruption to vital patient services.
The dispute centres on Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust’s decision to reband some workers from Band 2 to Band 3 under the NHS Agenda for Change pay scale.
Staff moving to the higher pay band are meant to have their pay rises backdated, but Unison claims theatre staff are being offered less than colleagues in similar situations.
According to the union, many theatre workers have been carrying out advanced clinical duties for years while being paid at a lower rate. While some NHS employees had their pay rise backdated to April 2021, theatre staff have reportedly only been offered back pay from November 2024.
Gary Cleaver, Unison regional organiser for Yorkshire and Humberside, said strike action would be a last resort but stressed that theatre staff deserve equal treatment.
He argued that workers had been performing above their pay grade for years and must be fairly compensated.
Rachel Potter, a perioperative assistant based in Leeds, highlighted the crucial role theatre staff play in ensuring operations run smoothly and patient safety is maintained. She added that while recognition through a higher pay grade was welcome, fair compensation for past work was equally important.
Unison said it hopes the Trust will resolve the issue without strike action but warned members are prepared to act if necessary.
Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust acknowledged the dispute and stressed its commitment to resolving the matter quickly.
Dr Magnus Harrison, chief medical officer at the Trust, said it was important that staff feel valued and that concerns are heard. He added that the Trust is working closely with staff and representatives to reach a solution and minimise any impact on patient care.
The ballot outcome could mark a significant escalation in NHS industrial relations, particularly as staff shortages and rising workloads continue to place pressure on hospital services across the UK.
