Scotland hosts Health colleagues from UK nations in devolution seminar

by Nicola Morris

Ten years after devolution in Scotland, representatives of UNISON’s Health Service Group from England, Wales and Northern Ireland joined members of the Scottish Health Committee at their AGM and Policy Seminar in Edinburgh.

Taking part in a special seminar, focusing on devolution and the Healthcare Service Group in UNISON, members considered the impact of devolution, common issues where lessons can be learned, and how an effective relationship in terms of health policy, the bargaining agenda and organising in healthcare in the four nations can be developed.

Commenting after the seminar John Gallacher, Secretary to the Scottish Health Committee, said: “Joining with our UNISON colleagues to discuss the divergence of health policy between the NHS in England and the devolved nations, has allowed us to identify challenges and share ideas and best practice.

“Many challenges face UNISON members working in the NHS everywhere but the experiences of our healthcare activists from across the UK make it clear that union organisation, communication, effective political engagement and involvement in real partnership models, will deliver the best representation.”

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