MiP continues to play a full part in talks with employers on the joint working programme for NHS England (NHSE) and NHS Improvement (NHSI). Hundreds of MiP members will be affected by the effective merger of the two organisations, as seven regional structures and 11 corporate directorates are integrated over the next seven months.

Consultations on Stage Three of the merger, which affects Agenda for Change staff, are due to begin on 2 July, following completion of a review of how the proposed new structures will affect staff and an equality impact assessment. Staff are expected to be notified of their individual position by the end of September, and new posts across both organisations are set to be fulled – by ‘slotting in’ existing staff or ‘ring-fenced’ competition – by the end of 2019.

MiP national officer Pete Lowe, who represents MiP members on the NHSE/I Joint Partnership Forum, said management were “fully engaged in constructive talks” with unions, although a number of issues remained to be resolved.

“We want to make sure their is a fair appeal process in place for Stage 3, and that there is enough HR capacity in place to provide members with high quality support during the change process,” he added. “We also want to ensure there are no compulsory redundancies, as promised by management at the outset, and that displaced staff are treated fairly and found alternative jobs elsewhere in the NHS.”

MiP is encouraging members in NHSE and NHSI to support their colleagues by taking an active role in the change process. This may involve scrutinising local restructuring proposals, reviewing job descriptions and grading decisions, helping members with appeals, or simply acting as a contact point for people with concerns. If you’re able to help your colleagues in this way, contact your MiP national officer.

MiP members will also discuss the merger, which will affect many staff based in Leeds, at the MiP North Summit in the city on 12 June. Book your place now to make sure you get your say.