NHS workers represented by Unite and Unison in Scotland have voted to accept an 8 per cent pay increase over the next two years, the unions announced today.

The deal will see a 4.25 per cent rise this year and a 3.75 per cent uplift next year for staff, including those in the ambulance service, estates and porters.

An “inflation guarantee,” which would ensure pay increases will always stay at least 1 per cent above the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rate, was also agreed.

James O’Connell, Unite’s lead negotiator for the health sector, warned that any attempts to row back on the commitment to keeping pay deals above inflation would see members balloted for strike action.

Unison Scotland head of health Matt McLaughlin said: “NHS workers have accepted the deal. Now ministers must get the wage rise into their pay packets as soon as possible.

“However, there’s no room for complacency. Waiting lists are the worst since devolution. The NHS in Scotland must address staff shortages if it is to turn the service’s fortunes around.”

The announcement comes as the Royal College of Midwives also accepted the Scottish government’s offer this week.