Nursing staff eligibility for overtime payments (FOI)

Request

Can the Minister of Health confirm that all nurses are able to claim overtime for any hours or shifts that are above their contracted hours? If a nurse has worked extra hours or an extra shift and has been refused overtime to whom should they complain?

Response

Hours worked in excess of 37.5 will be paid at overtime rates. These are currently at time and a half for Monday to Saturday and double time for Sunday and Bank Holidays. Part-time workers will receive plain time for additional hours up to 37.5 per week. Hours in excess of 37.5 are paid at normal overtime rates.

The need for overtime working will require prior approval from Senior Nurse Management.

Cover for additional shifts is usually covered through the internal staff bank.

Any employment matters should be raised in the first instance with the line manager or Lead Nurse.