University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust currently provides a 'hopper' service, allowing staff to travel between sites for free.

However, from 25 August, NHS workers will be charged £1.80 for using the bus service from non-hospitals sites.

GMB has launched a 'Hands Off Our Hopper' campaign, calling on the trust to:

• Reverse the £1.80 charge
• Guarantee free, accessible transport for all NHS staff
• Consult properly with workers and unions before making such decisions.

Jim Clarke, GMB regional organiser, said: "This is a direct attack on the pay and dignity of NHS staff who rely on the hopper to travel between sites as part of their daily duties.

"It's a pay cut by stealth and could be the first step towards full fares, fewer stops, or no service at all. This isn't just about a bus fare - it's about fairness and respect.

"This charge discriminates against lower-paid and multi-site NHS workers the hardest, and it will have the effect of encouraging more car use. GMB's message to UHL is simple - keep your hands off our Hopper."

In response, Samantha Stanhope, associate director of sustainability and waste at the UHL, said: ‘We are committed to making sure the Hospital Hopper bus service is financially sustainable. To ensure it remains free for our colleagues who travel between hospital sites, colleagues making journeys that start from other locations will pay a subsidised charge from Monday 25 August.

‘This decision was taken after careful consideration, and we recognise the impact it will have on some of our colleagues. These measures will keep the cost as low as possible for them, while allowing UHL to continue to maintain this important service going forward.'