The referendum on the proposed junior doctor contract has now closed
We encourage you to read the and, if you are eligible, to vote in the referendum according to the instructions shared by the BMA.
In terms of renumeration the contract offers increases to weekend and nightshift pay, recognises ST6 trainees via a new point on the payscale, extends ‘section 2’ transitional pay protection to 2025 and guarantees an annual pay uplift of 2% each year for the next four years. Flexible training is also given increased support and underpinned by an annual less than full time (LTFT) allowance of £1,000.
Furthermore, safety and rest limit standards are revised and guardian fines are based on locum rates rather than the standard hourly rate paid to the doctor. A guide of activities that can be exception reported is also included in the contract and a new system proposed that seeks to formalise aspects of existing practice.
Work scheduling, leave, locum work and flexible pay premia are also addressed in the proposed contract, and it is stated that the Joint Negotiating Committee for Junior Doctors (JNC) will continue to meet the aim of making improvements for trainees and employers.
A referendum on the revisions to the 2016 contract is open now and BMA members that are junior doctors, final or penultimate year students are eligible to vote. If this applies to you then check your inbox, as you should have received an email from the BMA inviting you to do so.
Also entitled to vote are junior doctors or final year students studying or working in the devolved nations who can provide evidence that they will be moving to England and working under the contract from August 2019. Please contact the BMA directly for more information if this applies to you.