No to postcode pay

As this e-petition has received more than 10 000 signatures, the relevant Government department have provided the following response:

All healthcare trusts already have the power, under reforms introduced by the last Government, to employ staff on terms that they consider appropriate. Foundation trusts (but not NHS trusts) have additional local freedoms in certain specific areas, but they must accord with the standard benefits set out in the nationally agreed pay framework Agenda for Change.

All trusts are free to opt out of Agenda for Change, but cannot do so unilaterally. Trusts must seek to negotiate with their staff and staff representatives. However, few organisations have chosen to exercise their freedoms and most are unlikely to do so provided Agenda for Change remains fit for purpose.

In partnership and discussion with NHS trade unions, NHS Employers hope to make changes to Agenda for Change at a national level for the benefit of both staff and patients.

This e-petition remains open to signatures and will be considered for debate by the Backbench Business Committee should it pass the 100 000 signature threshold.