RCM shows support at TUC march and rally

By Julie Griffiths on 17 May 2018 TUC NHS Pay and Agenda For Change

Alongside other trade unions, the RCM took part in the TUC’s ‘a new deal for working people’ march and rally in London on 12 May.

Thousands of people took part, despite the rain, to campaign for a £10 per hour minimum wage, to ban exploitative zero hours contracts, proper funding for the NHS and public services, and the right to a voice at work. 

The march began at 11am at Victoria Embankment and ended at Hyde Park for the rally, which included speeches by RCM CEO Gill Walton and Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn.

In her speech Gill told to the crowds how proud she and the RCM are to march alongside colleagues and campaigners for the public services treasured by all.

She said: ‘The government should be putting everything they can into our public services that have endured years of austerity yet somehow still manage to provide great services. This is due to the hard work of those that dedicate their lives working for them. Let us redouble our efforts to fight, to fight for working people.’

RCM director for policy, employment relations and communications Jon Skewes, who also took part in the event, said: ‘The RCM was out in force for the TUC march and rally with our balloon and banners.

'Members, activists, students and RCM staff were a real presence, supporting more investment in the NHS and public services and an end to austerity. It was a damp day but Gill Walton our CEO raised cheers for midwives and MSWs when she addressed the rally in Hyde Park.’

Gill also highlighted in her speech about the RCM’s consultation of members on the NHS pay offer. 

More information on the fair pay consultation is available here.