Society of Radiographers picket Ipswich Hospital amid 48-hour strike action

The Society of Radiographers has staged a picket at a local hospital, following the commencement of strike action.

Radiographers across East Anglia are currently taking part in a 48-hour walkout, in protest over recruitment and staff retention problems within the NHS.

Their union voted to strike at the end of last month.

A picket was held outside Ipswich Hospital this morning.

The Society of Radiographers’ executive director of industrial strategy, Dean Rogers, said: “Voting for strike action was a difficult decision for our members, who care above all about the safety and wellbeing of their patients.

“We need to draw attention to the fact that many radiography professionals are feeling burnt out by low pay and increased hours.

“They’re leaving the NHS, and they are not being replaced in adequate numbers.

“If the government wants to reduce NHS waiting lists and ensure that patients receive the treatment they need, when they need it, then it must urgently prioritise the recruitment and retention of radiography professionals – and that means talking to us about pay and conditions.

“But they are refusing to talk to us, even though our door is open.

“Our members deserve better. Our patients deserve better.”

The strike wraps up at 8am tomorrow.