The General Secretary of GMB, Gary Smith, visited EMAS this week to hear directly from frontline ambulance workers about the realities of working in today’s NHS.

During the visit, Gary spent time with EMAS staff at Beechdale Ambulance Station, listening to their experiences and concerns. Key issues raised included the ongoing rota consultation within EMAS and the recently announced 3.3% NHS pay award from the UK Government.

Staff spoke candidly about workload pressures, fatigue, recruitment and retention challenges, and the impact that rota changes could have on wellbeing, family life and patient care. There was a strong and consistent message: ambulance workers want meaningful engagement and fair reward for the critical work they deliver every day.

Gary reaffirmed GMB’s commitment to standing shoulder to shoulder with ambulance staff. He pledged to lobby Government to improve working conditions across the NHS and to push for a settlement that properly recognises the skill, responsibility and intensity of frontline ambulance work.

As part of the visit, Gary also met with the Trust Chief Executive and branch officials at EMAS Headquarters. Discussions focused on the wider challenges facing the ambulance sector, including sustained demand, system pressures and workforce sustainability. The conversation reinforced GMB’s determination to remain a strong, constructive voice for NHS and ambulance workers; holding employers and Government to account while advocating practical solutions that improve both staff wellbeing and patient care.

This visit was an important opportunity to ensure that the voices of EMAS staff are heard at the highest levels of the union and beyond. GMB EMAS will continue to engage with members throughout the rota consultation and the ongoing pay discussions, ensuring that their concerns directly shape our campaigning priorities.