The Royal College of Midwives (RCM) is to ballot its Barnsley NHS Foundation Trust members over ‘fire and rehire' concerns following changes to breaks. 

The news came after the trust moved to a formal dismissal and re-engagement process after the union members rejected changes to staff breaks that would see midwives and maternity support workers working an additional seven hours a month due to longer unpaid breaks.  

Lynne Galvin, RCM regional head for North of England, said: ‘Our members in Barnsley are being placed in an unfair and avoidable situation. They have engaged constructively throughout, but the trust has pressed ahead with plans that are unsafe, unworkable and deeply concerning.'

‘The threat of fire and rehire has no place in the workplace. It undermines staff, damages morale and risks the quality of care women, babies and families receive. 

‘That's why we are now preparing to ballot our members for industrial action. Our priority is to bring the employer back to the table, secure a pause to this process and ensure safe, workable conditions for maternity staff. 

‘We remain committed to finding a resolution but will stand firmly behind our members if action is needed.'

A Barnsley Hospital spokesperson said: ‘We continue to hold discussions with RCM and other union colleagues and are hopeful a resolution to this matter can be found.'