Scottish Government offers 8% pay rise to NHS staff over two years

The Scottish Government has proposed an 8% pay increase over two years for NHS staff, including a 4.25% rise for 2025-26 and a 3.75% rise for 2026-27, along with an inflation guarantee ensuring pay increases are at least 1% above the Consumer Price Index. Health Secretary Neil Gray described the offer as strong, resulting from constructive negotiations with unions, and estimated to cost around £191 million. Unison plans to ballot its members on the final offer, while the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) and other unions are considering the proposal amidst frustrations over delayed negotiations. RCN director Colin Poolman highlighted the need for fair pay to recruit and retain nursing staff, addressing historical pay erosion. The offer comes as unions across the UK await similar pay reviews for their respective regions. Consultation processes are underway to gauge staff sentiment on the proposal.