Last week, EMAS issued further clarification regarding the nationally agreed Band-to-Band reversion back to Annex 5. The GMB fundamentally disagreed with the Trust’s interpretation of this national agreement.

In response, a significant development occurred the following day. After discussions between GMB representatives and the Trust’s Chief Executive, the Trust has decided to reverse its previous decision.

Following further internal discussions and consultations at the national level, EMAS has confirmed that colleagues employed with the Trust before 1 September 2018, who are either undertaking the internal Technician to Paramedic course or are within their Newly Qualified Paramedic (NQP) period, will be allowed to revert back to Annex 5 unsocial hours payments. Once these colleagues transition to Band 6 Paramedic, they will then move to Section 2 unsocial hours payments, as outlined in the Frequently Asked Questions from the national group. GMB will continue to discuss with the Trust regarding the move to Band 6 and loss of Annex 5.

EMAS is currently working through the applications of approximately 120 colleagues affected by this decision. The Trust will collaborate with the Resourcing team to determine the appropriate unsocial hours percentage and with Payroll to process back pay dating back to 1 April 2024. The goal is to manage expectations and complete these changes by September 2024.

EMAS will commence contacting eligible colleagues from WC 22 July 2024.