Royal College of Nursing industrial action: information for patients and families

The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) has announced that industrial action will be taking place again at a number of hospitals on Monday 6 February and Tuesday 7 February 2023. This will include some nurses and colleagues in the nursing family e.g. healthcare support workers, at Sheffield Children’s.

We know this may be causing our patients and families to worry about planned appointments or care they are receiving in the hospital. Please be assured that emergency care will be available, and patient safety is our primary focus.

Yvonne Millard, Chief Nurse at Sheffield Children’s, said: “We are working closely with our nursing colleagues and other services to put plans in place to make sure we maintain safe staffing levels during the industrial action.

“Our first responsibility is always to the children and families who depend on Sheffield Children’s. By working together we can reduce the impact the action will have on babies, children, young people and their families.

“If we need to alter any scheduled appointments we will contact families directly. Otherwise families should attend appointments as usual, and can be confident we will continue to provide urgent care for any child who needs us.”

Outside the Hospital 

On Monday 6 and Tuesday 7 February the main entrance of the hospital. We expect a number of people to be outside and there may be media in attendance. The main entrances will still be in use and your access will not be blocked.

We completely respect the right of staff to take part in lawful industrial action. While pay is a matter for Government and the trade unions, our nurses are valued and respected by the organisation, and we understand the importance of good pay and conditions for individuals and their families. We know this is not a decision that has been taken lightly but there has been a strong commitment on all sides to make sure industrial action is balanced with the delivery of safe care.

Further information

If patients or families have further questions please contact your clinical team. If you cannot get hold of your clinical team, please contact PALs.

We want to thank all patients and families for their patience and support during this period.