Further my post from 5 August 2020, I wanted to update you on this important issue. Firstly, this matter remains a priority for NIPSA, especially in light of rebuild plans and we have insisted that all plans must focus on safe staffing and workforce in consultation with Trade Union Side.
There have been a Terms of Reference drafted for a Safe Staffing Delivery Group (SSDG) with input from the Health Unions that covers the NIPSA disciplines of Social Work and Social Care, Admin & Clerical and Support Services. They also cover tackling Agency spend and Recruitment delays. These are now with the Health Minister for agreement.
An Agency Reduction Sub Group has been set up and the SSDG is meeting again on 25 September 2020 to progress the issues.
We will provide updates as this work progresses bearing in mind timescales and all the pressures that members are under while significant vacancies remain across the HSC.