Amidst ongoing pay strikes, a health board boss has bagged a controversial £30,000 raise! Health visitors in Bridgend, Rhondda Cynon Taf, and Merthyr Tydfil have been striking since February, feeling underpaid. They’re classified as band six workers but argue they deserve the higher band seven rate, making a difference of up to £9,000. The Welsh Government has directed the health board to honour the job evaluation, yet the stalemate drags on.
Unite the union has spotlighted this pay raise for the Cwm Taf health board director, Hywel Daniel, whose earnings now exceed £200,000. While the health board claims disappointment over extending the strike, Unite is driving the petition machine, urging Daniel to step down. Thousands are rallying as health visitors deliver their petition to the Senedd.
Unite’s general secretary, Sharon Graham, calls this a blatant “reward for failure,” pushing for Daniel’s removal rather than a payout. With public support, this strike could stretch another year unless swift action is taken by the new Plaid Cymru-led Welsh Government.
Meanwhile, the health board remains committed to resolving the issue, working with staff to ensure essential services continue. What are your thoughts on the situation? Let us know below!