NHS workers in Scotland are already “beyond breaking point,” the Unite union warned today, accusing the Scottish government of backsliding on commitments to cut the working week.

An earlier pay deal between health unions and SNP ministers included an agreement to cut the working week in the health service from 37.5 hours to 36 without financial detriment. 

But from April, the working week is set to shrink by just 30 minutes, prompting fury among hard-pressed NHS staff.

Warning that the lack of progress would have a “detrimental impact” on workers and on a service already grappling with a  recruitment and retention crisis, Unite warned that “all options will be on the table,” including industrial action, to ensure the agreement is honoured.

Unite lead negotiator for the health sector James O’Connell said: “NHS staff can’t wait any longer. They need this reduction now so we can help reduce the stresses and strains on hardworking NHS staff who are beyond breaking point.

“If the 30-minute reduction is not delivered, then we are simply piling more pressure on the workforce.”

He said that the expectation that the full-hour reduction would be delivered as of next year was “utterly fanciful.

“Unite fully expects more backsliding from the Scottish government and NHS bosses, which is unacceptable because it reneges on a deal,” he said.

“We will now consult with our members on the next steps, but all options will be on the table.”

Scottish Health Secretary Neil Gray said he was committed to implementing the 36-hour week for Agenda for Change staff, adding: “It is crucial we deliver this change in a way that is safe for patients and staff, supports continued recovery of services and avoids any extra burden for our workforce.”