Physiotherapists in Nottingham have joined thousands across the country in taking strike action over pay. Members of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) picketed outside Queen's Medical Centre during the walkout today (January 26).
Picket supervisor Mike Pearson, a trained physiotherapist who now works in workforce improvement, said physios were "really struggling" with the demands of the job. "The work is getting harder and harder and the price that the Government is willing to pay is not enough," said the 45-year-old, from Sneinton.
"Staff are leaving as they can do less stressful jobs elsewhere. Physios need to work longer hours and do not feel patients are getting the care they deserve. Hospitals are getting busier and people are coming in with more complications."
Read more: Flu could have killed Nottinghamshire teaching assistant who spent six days in coma
Up to 4,200 CSP members from 30 NHS trusts went on the strike, which is scheduled for the entire day. The union is calling for a better pay deal, which it says the Government is reluctant to do.
"We are really struggling to keep the staff that we need," continued Mr Pearson. "When people think of the NHS a lot think about doctors and nurses, but it is a whole host of different professions. Physios play an important role in helping patients get back on their feet after an operation. In every aspect there is a physio involved somewhere.
"It's a whole team effort - although we are out here as physios this is for all staff in the NHS." Mr Pearson said physios remained in work on Thursday, ensuring the hospital had staff for "life and limb threatening" cases.
Claire Sullivan, CSP director of employment relations, said: "The Government’s strategy during this dispute has been simply inexplicable and is entirely to blame for these strikes. We are determined to secure a pay deal that helps our members cope with the cost of living crisis and helps the NHS recruit and retain staff to deliver the services that patients desperately need."
A Nottingham University Hospitals spokesperson said: "Our focus is to maintain patient safety and our teams are working hard to ensure that we prioritise those patients needing emergency treatment. If you have an outpatient appointment you should attend as planned – unless we have contacted you to reschedule.
"Any appointments that need to be rescheduled will be done as a priority.” Health Secretary Steve Barclay said: “It is regrettable some union members are taking industrial action. I will continue meeting with unions, including the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, to discuss what is fair and affordable for the 2023/24 pay process.”
READ NEXT:
