Hundreds of low-paid NHS hospital staff win improved terms after strike threat

St Helier hospital. Strike action was averted after proposals to implement full AfC contracts were approved. Photograph: Jill Mead/The Guardian

Hundreds of low-paid NHS hospital workers are celebrating victory after bosses agreed to improve their terms and conditions following the threat of strike action.

More than 330 workers, mainly cleaners, caterers and porters, known as facilities staff, at St George’s, Epsom and St Helier hospital group (GESH) – 98% of those balloted – voted for strike action.