Health Secretary 'keen to have dialogue' with nursing unions over pay rises

The transcript discusses the challenges faced by the NHS due to inflation and cost of living pressures. It emphasizes the need for collaboration with trade unions like the RCN to make settlements more affordable by exploring productivity and efficiency opportunities. The discussion includes reviewing pay offers and planning for the future to ensure that the evidence presented to the independent pay review body reflects the pressures on the NHS while considering economic affordability.

What are the main factors putting pressure on the NHS according to the speaker?

• Technological advancements

• Inflation and cost of living

• Increased patient numbers

• Rising taxes and government policies

What is the purpose of working with the RCN and other trade unions?

• To increase NHS funding

• To make settlements more affordable

• To implement new technologies

• To reduce staff numbers

What was the percentage of the offer that the RCN turned down?

• 7.5%

• 5%

• 1%

• 10%

What will the pay review body consider for the upcoming year?

• Staff training programs

• Hospital infrastructure improvements

• New healthcare technologies

• Inflation and cost of living pressures

Why is it important to work together according to the speaker?

• To increase the number of healthcare workers

• To ensure evidence reflects NHS pressures and economic affordability

• To reduce healthcare costs

• To build new hospitals