Scottish Health Secretary Humza Yousaf has now offered this deal to NHS staff in Scotland, saying it comes after ‘no stone was left unturned‘ to find the money.

A progressive deal which offers a significant increase to younger health workers make tremendous sense in at least two ways. One, it will help with recruitment. Two, does anyone really believe it takes 7 years for a nurse to peak? Teachers are on a 5 year-only scale.

As for stones, it’s refreshing to see coverage of the NHS in Scotland which usually leaves no turn un-stoned.

In NHS England and Wales:

During the ballot, the results of which were announced two weeks ago, the RCN had argued this year’s below-inflation pay award came after years of squeezes on nurse’s salaries.

But England Health Secretary Steve Barclay said the RCN’s demands were not affordable, adding he “deeply regretted” union members would be taking action.

He pointed out the government had met the recommendations of the independent NHS Pay Review Body in giving its award.

And it followed a 3% pay rise last year, in recognition of work during the pandemic, despite a public-sector pay freeze.

“Our priority is keeping patients safe. The NHS has tried and tested plans in place to minimise disruption,” he added.

The Welsh government said it was unable to enter pay talks without extra funding from the UK government.

Labour shadow health secretary Wes Streeting said talks should restart – although he would not commit to paying the above-inflation pay rise the RCN was seeking.

“Why on earth is the health secretary refusing to negotiate with nurses? Patients will never forgive the Conservatives for this negligence.”

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-63746334

Why do Tories not worry about the NHS so much?

https://bylinetimes.com/2021/11/12/the-conservative-partys-private-healthcare-patrons/