Nurses in Greater Manchester could be joining the biggest-ever national action over a pay dispute. Although votes are still being counted, Royal College of Nursing officials believe there are enough members backing winter industrial action, it is understood.
A possible vote to strike has been met with support from both the public and political leaders, including Greater Manchester Mayor, Andy Burnham, who has said 'the people of Greater Manchester are right behind' nurses. Manchester Evening News readers have also pointed out the apparent support shown by politicians during the ‘clap for carers’-era of the Covid-19 lockdown, calling on the government to follow through.
But others have raised concerns about the impact strike action would have on patients and the NHS. Our healthcare system is already under huge pressure - with hospitals often admitting that they are suffering unprecedented demand on A&E departments, and ambulance services around the country declaring high alerts because capacity is being far outstripped.
