NHS workers set to join coronavirus pay demo in Doncaster this weekend

Demonstrations will take place across the country on Saturday with Doncaster’s protest set to take place in Sir Nigel Gresley Square from 11am.

A spokesman said: “We all know our healthcare workers have been crucial in the fight against COVID-19.

"Excluding us from the public sector pay increases puts our patients at risk. After losing 20% of our pay since 2010 we now have 44,000 vacancies and it leaves us unprepared to tackle a second peak of COVID-19.

"We are calling on all NHS workers and supporters to join us in sending a clear message to Boris Johnson and his colleagues: we demand recognition for the sacrifices made and the hardship endured.

"This will be a peaceful protest against this government's exclusion of NHS staff from recent pay increases.

"Healthcare workers are feeling demoralised, undervalued, overworked and utterly exhausted. 540 of our friends and colleagues have been lost to COVID-19 and it is not over yet.

"Bring your banners, and your voices - it's time to show that you care for our carers and our NHS. Please wear a face covering/mask and observe social distancing.”

“The march is not politically affiliated, nor is it a call for strike action - this is a powerful demonstration of our ability to come together and call out the government's treatment of healthcare workers across the board.”