Scots hospice workers 'not getting a fair deal' on pay under SNP Government
Scots hospice workers are "not getting a fair deal on pay" under the SNP Government and are struggling to retain and recruit staff as a result, Labour has claimed.
Jackie Baillie today pledged hospice-based doctors and nurses would see their wages rise to NHS levels if her party takes power at the Holyrood election next year.
The Scottish Labour health spokeswoman said hospices played a crucial role in Scotland's healthcare system and support families through some of the most difficult times of their lives. But the MSP warned the sector was already under significant financial pressure due to underfunding by SNP ministers.
Speaking on a visit to the CHAS hospice in Balloch, Baillie said the funding shortfall has made it difficult for hospices to match NHS pay for its doctors, nurses and hospice team without cutting services.
Scottish Labour has now pledged to fund pay parity between Agenda for Change staff in hospices and the NHS – protecting services and giving vital hospice workers a fair deal.
Jacki Smart, chair of the Scottish Hospice Leadership Group, welcomed the pledge and said it was a "visible and tangible commitment to support Scotland's hospices".
Baillie said: "Doctors and nurses in hospices play a vital role in our healthcare system, caring for our loved ones and supporting families through some of the most difficult times of their lives – but these incredible staff are not getting a fair deal. The sector has been sounding the alarm about mounting financial pressures for years, but the SNP's response has been too little too late.
Hospices shouldn't be forced to make an impossible choice between matching NHS pay and protecting services. A Scottish Labour government will value hospice workers and support this important sector by funding fair pay for hospice staff.'
Smart, CEO of Accord Hospice, added: "This is a visible and tangible commitment to support Scotland's hospices and we strongly welcome it. Frontline hospice staff will be delighted. Hospices employ the most dedicated and talented people, and they deserve to be paid fairly.
"Given hospices face extreme pressures from rising pay for doctors, nurses and all the vital support staff, this is hugely welcome and adds pressure to the need for urgent action."
The Record has asked the Scottish Government for comment.
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