BMA staff are today [19 March] protesting outside the union’s central London office, as a dispute about pay and recognition of service escalates.
The protest, organised by GMB Union, was sparked by the BMA’s decision to insource its employment and support staff advisors, and treat them as day one employees.
This move has resulted in the staff in question - who are the first port of call for BMA members seeking help – being placed on the lowest pay band for their grade, regardless of how long they have worked on behalf of the union.
GMB members have unanimously rejected an offer from the BMA - worth around £400 in-year before tax - because it did not resolve the issue at the centre of this dispute.
A recent consultative ballot of affected members saw 91% indicate their willingness to strike if necessary.
Gavin Davies, GMB Senior Organiser, said:
“We are disappointed that the BMA continues to undervalue the service of our members.
“We would expect better from a fellow union.
“These staff have worked tirelessly on behalf of BMA members.
“All we are asking is for the BMA to do the right thing and recognise their years of service.”
A GMB member said:
“The BMA employed us through an outsourcer for years. We were all aware during that time that we were being paid a fraction of the amount that direct employees of the BMA were.
“We finally thought we were going to be treated equally when we were brought inhouse but that was far from the truth.
“I have been made to feel totally undervalued and inferior to my BMA colleagues.
“While we proudly fight to improve doctors pay and conditions, it is incredibly hypocritical for the BMA to deny us the same entitlements when we raise our voices for ourselves.”
