A PUBLIC sector union has called for an early pay rise for all NHS workers in Wales amid the high pressure of the coronavirus pandemic.

Union said the pay rise by the Welsh Government would boost morale and show staff that they are valued as they face unprecedented hospital admissions.

A recent survey by the union found that more than nine out of ten NHS staff (91 per cent) across the UK said a wage lift of that level would boost their morale, while 95 per cent said it would make a “meaningful difference” to their lives.

Four out of five (83 per cent) said they would feel more confident they can afford to stay in their current job.

Unison said the early wage increase – equivalent to around £1 an hour extra for all staff – would benefit struggling local economies as workers spend the extra money in their pockets on the high street when the lockdown begins to ease.

More than three quarters of staff (78 per cent) said they would spend the cash locally.

Paul Summers, UNISON Cymru's lead officer for health, said: “The pressure on staff is immense and is not likely to ease any time soon. They’re exhausted and need reassurance their work is valued.

“The government should pay more than lip service to their efforts and demonstrate appreciation in a practical way by delivering a pay rise.

“Investing in staff will prevent an exodus of disillusioned workers and help with recruitment to build the NHS for the future.”

NHS staff and members of the public are being asked to sign an open letter to the chancellor of the exchequer Rishi Sunak calling on him to fund the pay rise in the Budget.

Unison spoke to NHS staff across Wales to hear their experiences over the last year and what a pay rise would mean to them.

Phillipa, domestic worker, said: “Very rarely do I take my eye off my electric meter. My pay didn’t stretch before Covid. I’m working every overtime God sends just to see me through. When the extra hours stop, when Covid goes, I don’t know how I’ll cope. Until you’re so desperate and you are ignoring the bills, you will never get what a difference £2,000 can make.”

Lucy, pharmacy technician, said: “£2,000 would be a boost financially and to my morale. Whilst it was great having the applause, it hasn’t been great time for NHS staff, wherever they are based, and a £2,000 pay rise would show that we are all appreciated. It would also enable us to have the occasional treat, as we have not had a decent pay rise for a while. I know I would have a larger salary in the private sector."

Claire, medical secretary, said: “We all deserve a £2,000 pay increase for what we’ve done during the pandemic. We can’t work safely from home! It’s about recognition of what we’ve done. We need more than clapping.”