The Scottish Government has announced a 5.5% pay rise for NHS Scotland staff, including nurses, for the 2024-25 period.
The increase comes after weeks of negotiations between the government, health trade unions, and NHS Employers.
The pay increase, backdated to April 1, 2024, aims to support staff through the cost of living crisis.
NHS Scotland Staff Receive 5.5% Pay Rise for 2024-25
Scotland’s Health Secretary, Neil Gray, acknowledged the hard work and commitment of healthcare staff, stating, “Fair pay is vital to recruiting and retaining nursing staff.”
- £448m pledged to fund the pay awards
- Top-end band 5 nurses will see a £2,072 pay uplift
- Top-end band 6 nurses will receive a £2,535 pay rise
Union Response
While unions welcome the offer, they express frustration at the delayed negotiations.
The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) Scotland director, Colin Poolman, notes, “Nursing staff are rightly frustrated… Fair pay is vital to recruiting and retaining nursing staff.”
Unions will consult their members, with Unison Scotland set to ballot its members after August 23. The RCN Scotland Board will review the offer in detail before presenting it to members.
This pay rise aims to address the cost of living crisis and recognise the dedication of NHS Scotland staff.