The recent cold weather spell has created financial problems at the Conquest Hospital.  Delayed admissions for elective surgery have meant lower income and in consequence the targets, including the 18 week target imposed by the NHS, are at risk.

The Trusts answer in their 2009/10 Action Plan includes 100% increase in parking charges for staff, six day and extended hours working in surgery and an effective ban on overtime as well as a cessation of appeals against regrading procedures.  MP Michael Foster has told the Trust bosses that whilst appreciating the problem it is not right that low paid staff should be victimised in putting it right.

“I am not unsympathetic to Trust managers seeking a resolution to the problem that has arisen- indeed I applaud them for it.  However, it cannot be right that some of the lowest paid members of staff, some earning only £13,000 or £14,000 per year, should suffer an effective cut of £150 a year in their salaries for increased parking charges.  Neither do I agree that it is possible to increase the working hours and operate on a six day week without paying overtime, or should low paid staff be expected to work for free.  The decision to suspend regrading applications may even lead to legal action so I think that most unwise”, said that MP.

In a letter to Trust Chair Irene Dibben, the MP has expressed his support for an action plan that makes clear that it should not be at the cost of low-paid members of staff.

“If it’s necessary to overspend this year then so be it” said Michael Foster, “no-one can help the inclement weather but it’s not an excuse for targeting hardworking NHS workers.