Radiology Assistants and Trainee Radiology Associate Practitioners employed at County Durham hospitals give invaluable care to some of the norths most vulnerable residents. The trust recently announced and recognised HCA workload and agreed a band 2 to 3 uplift, however Radiology Assistants forgotten about.
Support staff at the Trust are employed on Band 2 and, as such, should only undertake personal care such as assisting patients with feeding, toileting and bathing. However a survey of hundreds of staff found that the vast majority of HCAs are regularly and routinely undertaking clinical duties above their pay grade which should be paid at least Band 3. Duties include cannulation, de-cannulation, assisting with biopsies, changing injector pumps within CT. Safely screening patients for MRI safety, safely positioning into the scanner. Trainee Associate Practitioners undertake X-Rays, MRI scans within the Radiology department, A&E and work within theatre.
The difference between Band 2 and Band 3 NHS pay is nearly £2,000 per year – it is absolutely outrageous that dedicated staff, who already went above and beyond during the pandemic, are being systematically underpaid for the work they do.

Healthcare Assistants in other NHS Trusts across the North East have come together in their trade union, UNISON, to win Band 3 and secure back-pay to reward and recognise the years they’ve been undertaking clinical duties.

A number of Trusts – including Newcastle,  Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, the Northern Care Alliance, Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh NHS Foundation Trust, Stockport NHS Foundation Trust, Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust, Tameside and Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust, and Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust – have all re-banded their HCAs and paid back-pay up to 1 April 2018.

Why are Radiology Assistants at County Durham hospitals worth any less?

**Increased Workload:** Over the past year, the workload for Radiology Assistants has significantly increased due to the growing demand for radiology services. This increased responsibility warrants a commensurate adjustment in compensation.

**Specialized Skills:** Radiology Assistants possess specialized skills crucial to the efficiency of our department. Their expertise in handling and preparing imaging equipment, as well as assisting radiologists, directly contributes to the quality of patient care. Recognizing and rewarding these skills through a pay raise would boost morale and motivation.

**Industry Standards:** A review of industry standards indicates that the current compensation for Radiology Assistants in our organization may not align with prevailing market rates. Ensuring our salaries remain competitive is vital for retaining skilled professionals in our team.

**Commitment and Dedication:** The Radiology Assistants consistently demonstrate commitment and dedication to their roles. Acknowledging their hard work with a pay raise not only reflects our appreciation but also fosters a positive work environment.

As concerned residents of Durham and beyond, we call on the Trust to show your workers the respect they deserve by paying them appropriately for the work they do and rewarding the years they’ve worked above their pay band by paying back pay they deserve.