THE Royal College of Nursing (RCN) is recommending that members working in the NHS reject the Scottish government’s pay offer.

The union called on members today to reject the 4 per cent rise offered north of the border, calling for 12.5 per cent.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced workers on lower pay bands would receive the pay bump, with workers earning less than £25,000 guaranteed at least than £1,000 more.

But the RCN said that Scotland’s nurses and healthcare support workers deserve more due to their skill, responsibility and experience. 

The announcement comes after GMB Scotland said that it was also recommending members turn down the offer. 

RCN Scotland chairwoman Julie Lamberth said: “This past year has exacerbated long-standing issues and taken its toll: we know many are thinking of leaving the profession.

“We believe that the nursing profession deserves fair pay that recognises our contribution, supports retention and recruitment to ensure patient safety, and compensates for the failure of salaries to keep up with the cost of living over the last 10 years.”