United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust had put damaging proposals on the table that would remove vital healthcare services from the John Coupland hospital in Gainsborough. Staff based at the Hospital, who have and continue to work tirelessly throughout the pandemic, were facing an uncertain future over the festive period.
Hospital bosses had told staff they would have to move to Lincoln Hospital meaning staff would be faced with a 55 mile round trip or having to look for alternative work in 2021. On top of this staff were also told that the new jobs at Lincoln Hospital would be at a lower grade meaning staff would not only receive less pay each month but it would also have significantly eroded the pensions of long-term employees.
Pressure was brought to bear on the Trust by UNISON Lincolnshire Health branch after members raised concerns which has seen these damaging proposals scrapped in the best interests of staff, patients, and the local community. All healthcare services at the John Coupland hospital in Gainsborough will now continue to run as normal.
Commenting on the news Elliot Dean UNISON East Midlands regional organiser said
“UNISON told hospital bosses that if they didn’t immediately remove these damaging proposals; we would do everything within our power to expose their careless behaviour and support our members to take action to defend local healthcare services. Not only would the plans have seen lots of experienced NHS staff be forced out of work, but it would have had a major impact on patient care in and around Gainsborough. The removal of these proposals means the effected staff can now enjoy the festive period after an incredibly challenging year without having to worry about if they will have a job in the New Year or not.”