UNISON worries that not all health workers will benefit from the new pay structure

Agenda for Change has been described as the most radical change ever in health service pay and conditions.

But Unison has claimed that nearly a third of health staff could lose money under the new system.

The Scottish Executive has said that the reform will improve productivity and job satisfaction for staff.

Jim Devine, Unison's Scottish organiser for health workers, said: "Unfortunately, as it is presently packaged, Unison members in Scotland could reject these proposals because they do not meet the aspirations of our members, especially at a time when NHS consultants are receiving increases of between 25%-30."

Health managers

The union has calculated that up to 30% of staff in Scotland could actually lose money as a result of this scheme.

Although there are many positive aspects of Agenda for Change, the Scottish health committee of UNISON cannot support a scheme that sees even one NHS worker lose financially Jim Devine UNISON

It gave the example of payroll managers, currently earning about �40,000.

It claimed that the maximum that these staff could earn under Agenda for Change is �22,700.

Unison has voiced concerns that, although salaries would be protected under the proposals, it would only be for one year.

It has also been concerned that allowances for overtime, weekend and night working have been reduced.

Mr Devine added: "Although there are many positive aspects of Agenda for Change, the Scottish health committee of UNISON cannot support a scheme that sees even one NHS worker lose financially."

The Scottish Executive has pointed out that the changes were planned with the cooperation of employers and union representatives.

Nurses support

A spokesman said: "These discussions were successfully concluded at the end of 2002 and agreement reached on a new pay system.

"Jobs will be designed around patient and staff needs, improving overall productivity and job satisfaction for staff."

The Royal College of Nursing is supporting the pay reforms

And he added: "Any concerns which Unison have will be addressed through the new national Staff Council."

The concerns voiced by Unison about the reforms have not been supported by the Royal College of Nursing.

The Director of RCN Scotland, James Kennedy, said: "RCN Scotland remains fully committed to the implementation of Agenda for Change from October this year and the health minister has made it clear that this is his position as well."

The Chair of RCN Scotland, Jane McCready, suggested that there are mechanisms in place to sort out some of the concerns.