HUNDREDS of hospital workers are celebrating a “long overdue” victory after winning more than three years back pay for performing tasks above their NHS pay band, the Unison union announced today.

The clinical support workers at Homerton University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust had been campaigning for months for fair pay, including for the extra work they have already done.

Unison London regional secretary Sara Gorton said: “This deal is a major step toward recognising, respecting and fairly rewarding the vital roles played by clinical support workers.

“It’s a hard-won victory. Their determination and persistence have finally paid off. They truly deserve this substantial wage rise.”

Homerton branch secretary Jordan Rivera added: “This victory is long overdue.

“These dedicated health workers have been going above and beyond for years, taking on clinical duties without proper recognition or pay.”

The healthcare assistants, maternity care assistants and rehabilitation assistants had been on Band 2 of the NHS Agenda for Change wage scale, despite regularly performing clinical tasks that should be paid at the higher Band 3 rate, according to Unison.

They were moved to Band 3 from March and received their back pay in their July pay packets.

Rehabilitation assistant Nasima Begum said that the wage arrears were “more than just numbers on a payslip.”

She added: “After working through Covid and everything we’ve been through, this win feels like a moment of dignity restored. We’re proud of each other, proud of how we stood together and proud of what we achieved with the backing of our union.”

Healthcare assistant Raheem Dabiri said: “It’s been a long road, but in the end, it’s been worth all the sweat and hard work.”

Homerton's Chief People Officer, Del Mehet said: "This agreement reflects a shared commitment to fairness, recognition and partnership, and demonstrates what we can achieve when we work together in the best interests of our people."