Hospital midwives face pay cut
Hundreds of staff at Walsall Manor Hospital face having their salaries slashed in a move which critics allege is to ensure the books balance to support the multi-million rebuild of the site. Hundreds of staff at Walsall Manor Hospital face having their salaries slashed in a move which critics allege is to ensure the books balance to support the multi-million rebuild of the site. Wages are being reviewed in every department with midwifery currently under the spotlight. The hospital employs 34 band seven midwives, which means they get paid the top level, between £31,000 and £43,000 per year. Under the proposals, 31 midwives would be downgraded to band six, where the annual salary is £26,000 to £31,000, but would be expected to carry out the same work. Read the full story in today's Express & Star.
Wages are being reviewed in every department with midwifery currently under the spotlight.
The hospital employs 34 band seven midwives, which means they get paid the top level, between £31,000 and £43,000 per year.
Under the proposals, 31 midwives would be downgraded to band six, where the annual salary is £26,000 to £31,000, but would be expected to carry out the same work.
One midwife, who asked not to be named, said: "Essentially they want us to re-apply for our jobs but only three positions will be available rather than 34.
"They are expecting us to do exactly the same work for less money and all they are proposing to do is re-word our contracts to take out any mention of having a supervisory role over other midwives."
Unison, which represent workers at the hospital, said a review of every department is taking place and it has lodged a dispute with the trust. Ultimately, it could ballot members about taking strike action.
