This issue of Frontline acknowledges the contribution of members in Manchester following the bombing at the Ariana Grande concert in May, says managing editor Lynn Eaton.
Sadly, it was not the only emergency incident triggered by terrorist action in recent months, with others on Westminster and London bridges, and at Finsbury Park.
It’s hard when a routine day at work turns into something horrific. But NHS staff are trained to deal with emergencies and responded professionally to each incident. Going one step beyond the call of duty in many cases. As CSP member Liz Birchall told us: ‘Allied health professions shone in the aftermath of the Manchester bomb, demonstrating compassion, dedication and professionalism in exceptionally difficult circumstances.’
It’s been a grim few months, with the tragic events at Grenfell Tower following hard-on-the-heels of the terror attacks. The selfless dedication of the firefighters, NHS staff and other public sector workers was there for all to witness. Indeed, such a response may even act as a powerful counterpoint to terrorism and help to galvanise the nation, according to a recent Lancet paper. Writing about France, the authors note: ‘The medical response is an essential component of the response to terrorist attacks and is in fundamental opposition to terrorism’s main objectives of aggression, fear and panic.’ See here.
The events come as preparations begin for the next round of public sector pay talks. Would it be too naive to hope that this time a decision will be made to lift the longstanding pay cap?
The CSP will be among those unions pushing the Pay Review Body to recommend a fairer deal. Make sure your voice is heard in a CSP survey and at meetings in your workplace. See here for more information.
- Lynn Eaton managing editor Frontline and head of CSP member communications eatonl@csp.org.uk;
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Lynn Eaton managing editor Frontline and head of CSP member communicationsNumber of subscribers: 3
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