The findings based on the experiences of more than 3,000 coincided with the union's annual conference in Brighton this week.

UNISON head of health Helga Pile said: ‘Pay isn't the only factor that motivates health service staff – they care passionately about the people they look after and saving lives.

‘But years of annual wage rises well below the cost of living and a staffing crisis are to blame for increasing numbers leaving.'

The union said many workers were forced to pick up gruelling overtime and bank shifts to cope, affecting their work-life balance and wellbeing.

It added financial gains from promotion were minimal despite significant increases in workloads and job responsibilities, with some on higher pay grades earning less than colleagues lower down the wage scale due to discrepancies in the system.

The report highlighted how the loss of experienced staff to the private sector increased the workload and stress levels for those left behind, with those at band 2 and 3 paid lower wages than peers in the retail sector.

UNISON called on ministers to include reforms to modernise the NHS pay system in the forthcoming 10-Year NHS Workforce Plan, including above-inflation pay rises and commitments for the lowest paid staff to stay at least in line with the Real Living Wage. 

The union said effective systems to allocate staff to the right pay bands were also key, alongside meaningful salary increases for career progression and promotion.