Radiographers opt for different NHS strike day

Radiographers are set to go on strike a week after the rest of the NHS workers involved in industrial action.

On Monday, health workers, including nurses, midwives and porters, in England will take part in a four-hour walkout in a dispute over pay.

But the Society of Radiographers has announced a UK strike on 20 October - as it did not have enough time to give formal notice to join the other unions.

The action has the potential to affect X-ray and ultrasound services.

Emergency or urgent services are not expected to be disrupted.

The results of a ballot - announced last week - showed 53% of society members who took part had voted for industrial action.

Ministers have awarded NHS staff a 1% increase, but only for those without automatic progression-in-the-job rises.

These, designed to reward professional development, are given to about half of staff, and are worth 3% a year on average.

An independent pay review board had said the 1% increase should be across the board, but ministers disagreed.

Radiographers will be on strike from 09:00 to 13:00 BST on 20 October. They will also work to rule for the rest of that week.

Richard Evans, the society's chief executive officer, said: "There is the possibility of more action by radiographers in the future.

"The anger that they and other health professionals feel is very strong."