The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) has said that it will not be balloting members over industrial action against the proposed pension changes. However, it has said that if the discussions fail again they will consider pursuing some form of action.

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Meeting of RCN ruling council

A meeting was held late last week by the RCN of its ruling council to come to some decision over the best way to respond to the government’s plans to change the NHS pension scheme.

If the changes become reality it would mean that retirement age would be increased to 66 by 2026 and staff would be forced to pay higher contributions.

Members had been asked to give their opinion on plans to pursue with industrial action, and after collating opinions the council was in agreement that the RCN would not ballot immediately on industrial action.

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This position taken by RCN is in direct contrast to that taken by unions such as Unite and Unison who have already agreed to action.

Discussions regarding public sector pensions between many unions and the Department of Health and Treasury were still ongoing, with an agreement looking quite far off.

Support the ‘day of action’

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Despite not taking part themselves, the council has said that it would support the ‘day of action’ planned for the end of November.

Sandra James, RCN council chair, has said: “”Council members have heard from thousands of nursing staff from across the UK, and are aware that anger levels are rising as nurses are hit from all sides. Not only are they dealing with rising living costs, a pay freeze and attacks on their pensions, but they are also dealing with a situation where they are overstretched and very worried about patient care.”

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