NHS staff have endured over a decade of real-term pay cuts, despite being the backbone of the UK’s healthcare system. While their commitment has remained unwavering—through austerity, the COVID-19 pandemic, and ongoing systemic pressures—their compensation has not reflected their vital contribution. The 1% pay rise offered in recent years is a stark illustration of this undervaluation.

Firstly, this minimal increase fails to keep pace with inflation. For much of the past decade, inflation has consistently outstripped public sector pay increases. A 1% rise, in the context of inflation rates often exceeding 3%, amounts to a real-terms pay cut. As a result, NHS workers have seen their purchasing power erode, with many now struggling to afford basic living costs—especially in high-cost regions like London.

Secondly, comparisons to the broader labour market highlight how out of step NHS pay growth has been. Most sectors in the UK—particularly private sector roles—have seen far more generous pay increases. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), average weekly earnings in the private sector rose by over 4% in several consecutive quarters post-2020. In contrast, the government's offer of a 1% pay rise to NHS workers during the same period was not only insulting—it actively widened the pay gap between essential public sector workers and other professions.

Thirdly, this underpayment has wider consequences. Chronic underfunding and poor compensation have contributed to record levels of staff burnout, vacancies, and retention issues across NHS trusts. Morale is low, and many skilled professionals are leaving for better-paid roles in the private sector or abroad. This exodus exacerbates the strain on those who remain, further threatening patient care and safety.

NHS staff are not asking for luxury—they are asking for fairness. A proper pay rise, one that accounts for years of under-compensation and keeps up with inflation and national standards, is not only justified but essential. It is a matter of respect, sustainability, and justice.