Unison
Being a BAOT member means you also belong to Unison and can access support and advice on workplace issues at any time
What are we calling for ?
As well as an inflation-proofed pay rise , we ’ re calling for an emergency retention package , earnings of the lowest paid workers to be boosted above real living wage rates , and for any extra shifts worked to be rewarded fairly .
We also want to see limits on excessive hours to prevent burnout .
Unison head of health and chair of the joint health unions Sara Gorton said : ‘ Last year the government dithering caused health workers to wait months for a measly pay rise . Ministers must not make the same mistake again .
‘ An above-inflation increase alone isn ’ t a magic solution to the NHS ’ s many problems . But a decent wage boost could be just the trick to persuade many burnt-out staff to stay .
‘ Time is now of the essence . The government needs to pull its finger out and show it ’ s prepared to act quickly to hold on to experienced health workers , protect the NHS and cut waiting times .
‘ If direct pay talks with government can deliver a speedier pay outcome , then unions could get around the negotiating table instantly .’
Without a decent pay rise this year , the NHS will continue to lose staff at alarming rates , with patients suffering the consequences most .”
Encourage new joiners during # HeartUnions week
HeartUnions week , which takes place from 14 to 20 February 2022 , is a chance to tell the story about why unions are vital for everyone at work and encourage people who aren ’ t yet in a union to join .
HeartUnions is a campaign week of activity where the trade union movement celebrates unions and the good that we do . During the week we want to do two simple things :
• demonstrate how brilliant unions are by showcasing all that we achieve for working people – especially during the pandemic ; and
• encourage as many people as possible who are already union members to ask someone , they know to join one too .
As a BAOT member you have dual membership with Unison . If 2022 is the year you decide to become more active in Unison , you can email us for more information BAOTstewards @ unison . co . uk .
© artbesourol via Getty Image
Our goal is to have a BAOT steward in every workplace . But what do stewards do ? Primarily , stewards give occupational therapists a strong voice in the workplace and improve members ’ access to support when needed on a range of issues such as :
• bullying and harassment
• redeployment
• sickness and absence
• contractual disputes
• redundancy ; and
• grievances . All new stewards are given full training and are able to attend our annual BAOT National Stewards Seminar , where we provide bespoke workshops and sessions along with networking opportunities .
If you ’ re already a steward , thank you , and don ’ t forget to encourage others to get more involved with you .
If you need help at work 0800 0857 857 or unison . org . uk
If you have a problem at work , BAOT / Unison is there to help
Anyone can face problems at work , but if you ’ re a member of BAOT , you don ’ t have to face them alone . Whether it ’ s about bullying , duty rotas , flexible working , annual leave or sickness procedures , a BAOT or Unison representative is on hand to help , wherever you work .
We are also there to support in you case of disciplinary action , dismissal or redundancy .
For help and advice at work – or to find out more about Unison services – please contact your local BAOT / Unison rep or go to www . unison . org . uk / get-help /.
February 2022 OTnews 19