Nurses shouldn’t have to fight for wages they deserve
WHAT a very sad reflection to read nurses have to fight for their pay and conditions (Guernsey Press, 1 July 2019). Having just gone through the awful experience of losing my husband in Carey Ward, I watched first-hand the workload these very special groups of people handle and am amazed they are placed in this position. Their dedication is so obvious as they care for each patient under extreme pressure due to staff shortages with such professional care. Treating everyone with dignity and compassion, they also include the relatives of the terminally ill.
This career is definitely a vocation and a calling, not just a job. The work is very demanding and challenging and touches the hearts of many nurses. They are expected to work very long hours, many more than any other work force would be expected to work. This would not be acceptable in other work environments for health and safety reasons alone.
They are short-staffed because the Health department is short of money. This should not be – more money should be allocated to the important issues and health care is certainly amongst the most important. We are all likely to need this service at some point in time.
How dare the powers-that-be force these dedicated people to fight for the wages they deserve and work over and above to earn. We have States members who are voted high salaries without a qualm; some don’t even earn the salaries they are paid (for example poor attendance). Their wages seem to be passed with just a nod.
I know where my priorities are and the nurses would come top of my agenda – always.
To finish, I would like to thank all of the Carey Ward team and doctors for the excellent care and support given to my late husband and our family throughout a very difficult time.
GABRIELLE LE CRAS
Gaybri,
Rue Jacques,
St Sampson’s,
GY2 4NL.