What discussions is the Cabinet Secretary having with other health boards across Wales to avert strike action by health visitors, in light of the ongoing strike action in Cwm Taf Morgannwg Health Board?
This is a local dispute between Unite and Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board.
Neither the Welsh Government nor the Health Secretary has powers to intervene in employment matters - these must be resolved by the employer, which in this case is Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, and Unite, which is representing its members.
We want to see the health board and Unite find a resolution to this dispute, which is fair to patients, health visitors and the NHS. We are encouraging both parties to work together in social partnership to find common ground and an early end to strike action.
NHS Wales Employers is co-ordinating an expert group to develop a range of job descriptions and Unite has been invited to take part. This is important national work – the new job descriptions will be available to all NHS organisations, and will help them to design, plan and staff services to meet the needs of their local population going forward.