UNISON Scotland Secures Major Two-Year NHS Pay Deal!

UNISON Scotland Secures Major Two-Year NHS Pay Deal!

A real example of what union strength can achieve – and a vision for success in England

UNISON Scotland has successfully negotiated a strong two-year pay offer for NHS Agenda for Change (AfC) staff — a deal that shows the power of collective bargaining and what can be achieved when members stand together.

While the deal is currently out to ballot for members in Scotland, it’s a compelling example of UNISON in action — and a blueprint for future success in England.

What’s Been Agreed:

• A 4.25% pay uplift in 2025/26
• A further 3.75% increase in 2026/27
• Cumulative uplift of 8.16% over two years
• A guaranteed inflation protection — each year’s pay rise will be at least 1% above CPI

What This Means – Real Examples Across the Bands:

Band 2

• Entry level: £24,647 → £26,658 (+£2,011) | Hourly rate: £14.20
• Top of band: £26,763 → £28,947 (+£2,184) | Hourly rate: £15.42

Band 3

• Entry level: £26,869 → £29,061 (+£2,192) | Hourly rate: £15.48
• Top of band: £28,998 → £31,364 (+£2,366) | Hourly rate: £16.71

Band 4

• Entry level: £29,116 → £31,492 (+£2,376) | Hourly rate: £16.78
• Top of band: £31,670 → £34,254 (+£2,584) | Hourly rate: £18.25

Band 5

• Entry level: £31,892 → £34,494 (+£2,602) | Hourly rate: £18.38
• Top of band: £39,735 → £42,977 (+£3,242) | Hourly rate: £22.89

Band 6

• Entry level: £39,912 → £43,169 (+£3,257) | Hourly rate: £23.00
• Top of band: £48,635 → £52,603 (+£3,968) | Hourly rate: £28.02

Why It Matters:

This deal shows what’s possible with strong union representation. Pay rises are meaningful, inflation-proofed, and delivered across all AfC roles — with clear benefits for both new starters and experienced staff.

While we have differences in our pay negotiation process in England, the need for fair pay across the board remains the same.

We cannot achieve results without active member engagement and action.

Final Thought – What Could We Achieve?

If we stand strong, if we organise together, and if we act with unity — what more could we achieve?

Scotland’s pay deal is not just a win — it’s a message: UNISON works when members are engaged.

Every conversation, every updated contact detail, every new member strengthens our voice.

Stay informed. Stay connected. Follow UNISON EMAS for the latest updates, actions and wins:

• Facebook: facebook.com/UNISONEMAS
• BlueSky: bluesky.com/UNISONEMAS
• Website: www.unisonemas.org.uk

Together, we can build a stronger union — and fight for the pay and recognition all NHS staff deserve.

AFC-25-27-Pay Offer Final