Phlebotomists at Gloucestershire Royal and Cheltenham General hospitals have reached the milestone of 100 days on strike, protesting against what they describe as unfair pay that undervalues their skilled and vital work. Since March, 37 blood-taking specialists have walked out in response to the Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust’s refusal to regrade their jobs appropriately.
These healthcare workers, responsible for collecting patients’ blood samples, are campaigning to be recognized at a higher pay band that reflects the complexity and skill involved in their roles. The union representing them, UNISON, highlights that despite performing duties consistent with NHS band 3, the phlebotomists remain wrongly placed at the lowest pay grade.
To raise awareness and support, the striking staff organized a rally outside Shire Hall in Gloucester at 10am, followed by a picket line demonstration back at Gloucestershire Royal Hospital from 12.30pm to 2pm. They also hosted a charity bake sale to fundraise, demonstrating solidarity and community engagement.
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Chris Roche, UNISON’s South West regional organiser, emphasized the persistence and determination of these workers: “Reaching 100 days of strike action shows these NHS staff are determined to be treated fairly. The trust has had countless opportunities to resolve this dispute but has instead chosen delay and denial. These phlebotomists carry out highly skilled, patient-facing work. They’re not asking for special treatment, just fair pay for the jobs they already do.”
Union representative and phlebotomist Caroline Hayhurst added, “Today is our 100th day on strike and we are not backing down. We want to be paid fairly for the work we do. This is not just about us. This dispute matters for phlebotomists across the country. If trusts can ignore their own policies and underpay skilled NHS staff here, they will try to do it elsewhere too. It’s time to put this right.”
The ongoing strike highlights broader concerns about fair compensation and recognition for NHS staff performing essential healthcare roles, with staff and unions calling for immediate action to resolve the dispute.