The workers first contacted McNamara in September to raise concerns about being paid at the wrong grade. Despite reaching their 70th day of strike action today (4 June) the trust boss has still not met with them, says Unison.

The phlebotomists currently earn £12.36 per hour, but according to NHS guidance, staff with their skills, knowledge and experience should be earning at least 77p more per hour than they currently do.

A formal NHS job evaluation panel reviewed their case earlier this year. A majority of panel members agreed the workers are on the wrong band, says Unison, but before a decision could be finalised, the panel was shut down by senior trust managers.

The phlebotomists have now extended their strike action to Sunday 22 June.

Unison South West regional organiser, Chris Roche, said: ‘These trained specialists support patients with complex needs and take blood samples in challenging circumstances.

‘They've shown incredible courage in standing up for themselves and have been through the correct process. But they've been met with nothing but excuses and silence.

‘It's time for Kevin McNamara to stop hiding behind his senior team and meet with the workers affected. Patients and staff deserve better.'

The trust was not available to comment at the time of writing.