NHS and ambulance workers across England are once again left waiting for their pay award due to yet another delay in the pay process.

The GMB has been actively engaged in the NHS Pay Review Body (PRB) process, submitting both written and oral evidence to make the case for a fair pay rise. Initially, we were informed that the PRB would report its recommendations to the government in April, with an announcement on the pay award expected in May. However, at the NHS Staff Council meeting on 12th March 2025, the Department of Health & Social Care (DHSC) representatives confirmed that the PRB will not report until May, pushing the government’s decision on pay back to June.

This is deeply frustrating for all NHS staff who are once again left in limbo, particularly the lowest-paid workers who have already needed an interim pay uplift just to avoid falling below the national minimum wage. Unions raised serious concerns about the negative impact on staff morale and the ongoing financial strain this delay is causing.

Key Facts About This Year’s Pay Process

This is a pay award, not a pay offer.

• The PRB considers evidence from unions, NHS England, and the government before making a recommendation on what the pay rise should be.
• The government then decides the final pay award, which will be automatically applied to all Agenda for Change staff and backdated to 1st April 2025.
• Unlike previous years, there are no negotiations on this process—the pay award is imposed by the government.

GMB Members Will Get a Say

Even though this is an imposed pay award, GMB members will still get the chance to have their say on whether it is acceptable or not.

 A GMB electronic ballot will open as soon as the pay award is announced.

 Make sure your contact details are up to date to ensure you receive your ballot. If you have changed your email, mobile number, or home address, please contact your local GMB rep or office.

 Only GMB members can vote in this ballot. If you’re not yet a member, join today  www.gmb.org.uk/join.

What Happens If Members Reject the Pay Award?

If a majority of GMB members vote to say the pay award is not acceptable, this will indicate support for potential industrial action.

In that case, GMB may move to a formal industrial action ballot. This would be conducted by post, and all eligible members would receive a ballot paper at their home address asking whether they are willing to take industrial action.

 Remember: For any industrial action ballot to be legally valid, enough members must vote and return their ballot papers on time—so make sure your details are correct now!

Get Involved in the NHS Pay Campaign

 Talk to colleagues about the pay situation.

 Make sure you’re a GMB member so you can have your say.

 Be prepared to take action if the pay award falls short of what NHS workers deserve.

We know this is frustrating, and we share your anger at yet another delay. GMB will continue fighting for fair pay and proper recognition for NHS and ambulance workers.

Stay informed, stay involved, and make sure your voice is heard!