Overview

• In a ballot that closed yesterday, 94% of Unison members in Dorset backed industrial action.
• The plan by Dorset HealthCare University, Dorset County Hospital and University Hospitals Dorset would transfer more than 1,700 porters, caterers and cleaners to a new company covering sites across the county.
• Unison warned of potential further NHS walkouts nationally unless trusts stop transferring support services to subsidiary companies, with strike dates in Dorset yet to be set.
• Hospital leaders said no final decision has been made and stated any new company would be 100% NHS owned with NHS pay, terms and pension access retained for current and future staff.
• Labour MPs in Dorset have raised the issue with the health secretary and called for a U-turn, citing risks to pay, pensions and career opportunities.