Midwives repeat call for removal of pay cap as inflation rises

By RCM on 13 December 2016 NHS Pay Review Body Pay and Agenda For Change

The latest inflation figures published by the Office for National Statistics today show Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation rising to 1.2% in November. Commenting, Jon Skewes, Director for Policy, Employment Relations and Communications at the Royal College of Midwives, said: “This rise highlights why the Government should desist from pressurising the NHS Pay Review Body to keep potential pay awards to NHS staff to a maximum of 1%.

“Midwives and other NHS staff have already seen the value of their pay plummet over the last 5 years as a result of pay restraint and other changes such as increased pension contributions and increases to national insurance. This has left many midwives thousands of pounds worse off than they otherwise would be. They are working harder and harder for less and less and it is not good enough.

“The RCM is calling for an inflation-proofed pay award for midwives and other NHS staff.”

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Notes to editors

For the RCM’s latest evidence to the NHS Pay Review Body visit our Publications section. 

The RCM is the only trade union and professional association dedicated to serving midwifery and the whole midwifery team. We provide workplace advice and support, professional and clinical guidance and information, and learning opportunities with our broad range of events, conferences and online resources. For more information visit the RCM website at https://www.rcm.org.uk/.