Exclusive By Pamela McGowan Health reporter <\/p>\n
Last updated at 12:39, Friday, 30 March 2012<\/p>\n
Hospital staff claim they are facing pay cuts totalling up to 11,000 a year as part of a controversial shake-up of pathology services. <\/p>\n
Sean Gibson <\/p>\n
They have until tomorrow to sign up to the new deal. If they refuse they could potentially be sacked and offered new jobs under the newterms. <\/p>\n
The review affects about 18 pathology and blood sciences at the West Cumberland Hospital in Whitehaven and about the same number at the Cumberland Infirmary in Carlisle. <\/p>\n
These staff carry out essential services, such as testing for infections and cancers. <\/p>\n
Bosses say the changes are part of national attempts to bring NHS pay into line. And they stress that no dismissal action will be taken until after a further consultation. <\/p>\n
Staff say they face losing their night shift payments in favour of much lower unsocial hours rates. At the same time, many are being downgraded and facing salary cuts. <\/p>\n
One pathology worker, who was too afraid to be named due to threats of disciplinary action, told the News & Star: Although we arent treated like it, we are frontline staff. Without us the hospital closes and without night shifts you couldnt run 24-hour A&E, maternity or intensive care services. <\/p>\n<\/p>\n
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