🌟 Health Visitor’s Heartfelt Apology as Strike Continues 🌟
“I’m sorry I’m not at work supporting my families right now,” says Gemma Emmanuel, a dedicated health visitor who’s been striking since 23rd February. Working with 140 families, Gemma and her colleagues seek fair pay, claiming underpayment by as much as £9,000 annually. ⚖️
Health visitors play a crucial role for families with children up to age three. Gemma shares, “I miss my families terribly. My son asked about my job, and I told him, ‘Do what you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life.’ I love my job that much.” 😢❤️
Despite missing out on building vital relationships with families during these formative years, Gemma’s families stand with her. They have shown tremendous support, attending rallies and speaking up on her behalf.
The strike, a last resort after other actions failed, hopes to prompt the health board to reassess their roles and pay fairly. The deprivation in their area makes their presence even more vital. “I just hope nothing catastrophic happens,” worries Gemma.
Recent protests at Cardiff Bay saw health visitors marching for change. Acknowledging their “critical role,” the First Minister urged a fair resolution. However, the dispute remains between local employers and health visitors.
Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board has stated that the pay banding aligns with national standards, but changes in education requirements have impacted roles. An expert partnership group is now tackling these issues.
In the meantime, Gemma and her colleagues are called to persevere, staying hopeful for a resolution that lets them return to the families they cherish. 💪
🌈 Let’s stand with Gemma and her colleagues as their passion and dedication deserve the recognition and fair pay they strive for. 🙏💕 #HealthVisitors #FairPay #SupportOurNHS