A survey of more than 2,000 UNISON nurses and midwives concludes that 73% would take industrial action to protect their pensions.
Despite a recent overhaul and the fact that half the women in the NHS retire on a pension of less than £3,500 a year, the pension scheme has come under attack in the Hutton Review with recommendations such as increasing the retirement age and member contributions, as well as moving to a career average, instead of a final salary scheme. Christina McAnea, UNISON head of health, said: “Pensions are a hot issue in the NHS at the moment and feelings are running high about the proposed changes. This survey shows that opposition is building. The current scheme has only recently been updated, it is fair and affordable and nurses are prepared to fight for it.” The survey showed that 86% believed the Hutton Review proposals would hit their standard of living now, and more than half said it would affect their ability to stay in their job.
