Nurses in Bradford today gave an enthusiastic thumbs-up to reports that nurses are in line for an inflation-busting pay rise.

The independent Pay Review Body is set to recommend increasing the pay of a newly-qualified nurse by 11 per cent from £12,855 to £14,269, according to newspaper reports.

In a bid to attract more school-leavers into the profession, it is also expected to be paid in one go, instead of being phased in over a period of time like previous awards.

The body is also said to be recommending a 4.7 per cent increase for experienced nurses - nearly twice inflation - meaning an extra £800 a year for those on top grades.

Gerry Mallon, chief nurse at Bradford Community NHS Trust, urged qualified nurses who were not working at the moment to return to the fold, in the light of the increases.

He said if the reported recommendations turned out to be accurate they were to be warmly welcomed.

"It's really excellent news which will go some way towards making nurses truly valued, notwithstanding that there will be real disappointment about the 4.7 per cent award for more experienced nurses" said Mr Mallon.

"Coupled with other strategies such as family-friendly employment policies, it should help to encourage new entrants to the profession and assist with recruitment and retention."

Mr Mallon issued an appeal to qualified nurses who were not working at the moment.

"There's never been a better time to return to nursing," he said.

"Anyone who is interested should be encouraged to contact my office at Leeds Road Hospital, whether they have an interest in community nursing or wherever."

Union bosses also welcomed today's reports. But they warned that a lower pay boost for experienced nurses may not be enough to curb the huge numbers leaving the profession.

Health Secretary Frank Dobson has indicated he wants to back the review body's recommendation. The body is expected to report to the Government within the next few weeks and Mr Dobson is set to announce the pay awards next month.

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