Industrial action: Phlebotomy
The Trust recognises and appreciates the valuable contribution that our phlebotomists make to patient care and we will continue to work closely in partnership with our local union representatives and phlebotomists to resolve these issues.
Patients who have an appointment at either CGH or GRH during periods of industrial action should attend as normal unless they hear from us directly to advise otherwise. However, there will be no phlebotomy service / blood samples taken (using a needle) in outpatients at West Block, Cheltenham General Hospital and Edward Jenner Centre, Gloucestershire Royal Hospital during industrial action. If you are attending an outpatient appointment and are required to give a blood sample the team will either perform this within the clinic or reschedule an appointment out with industrial action. Alternatively you can present as a walk-in patient to the phlebotomy service, again out with periods of industrial action. We will, of course, continue to take bloods (using a needle) throughout periods of industrial action across other services such as emergency care where our clinical teams regularly provide this care. We would like to apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.
When are phlebotomists taking industrial action?
The following periods of industrial have been declared at Cheltenham General Hospital (CGH) and Gloucestershire Royal Hospital (GRH):
- Monday 17 March to/and including Wednesday 19 March.
- Monday 24 March to/and including Thursday 27 March.
- Monday 31 March to/and including Friday 4 April.
- Monday 7 April to/and including Saturday 12 April.
Why are phlebotomists taking industrial action?
UNISON says this industrial action is in response to a pay and banding dispute.
What plans are in place to ensure patient continuity?
In response to planned industrial action by UNISON, we are making plans to minimise disruption as much as possible and to preserve patient care.