ECA Role
When the ECA role was evaluated it had a different training package and qualification level to the Diploma in Clinical Health Care Support that the trust has since introduced. Both parties were happy that the role evaluated to band 3 on the original non diploma training.
Job Evaluation is a complex process and can’t really be explained in full in a notice of this nature, however, it is an undisputable fact that if the level of factor 2 Knowledge Training and Experience (KTE) changes it takes the job from band 3 to band 4. The level of the KTE is currently said to be 2 however!
Level 3 KTE is:
Level 3: Understanding of a range of work procedures and practices, some of which are non-routine, which require a base level of theoretical knowledge. This is normally acquired through formal training or equivalent experience.
The current level of training (not the originally agreed level) for the ECA role is a Diploma in Clinical Health Care Support (Level 3). Guidance in the Agenda for Change Job Evaluation Handbook states quite clearly that:
Base level of theoretical knowledge (Level 3) equates to NVQ level 3, RSA 3, City & Guilds certification or equivalent level of knowledge.
So, any re-evaluation will make the ECA role band 4. The trust offer however is to let you continue using those band 4 skills, which you should be getting paid for now, for a further period of time before then allowing you to start at the bottom of band four. A great deal?
The Job Evaluation Handbook also states that jobs that have been changed should be re-evaluated
4. Re-evaluation of changed jobs
4.1 Where a job has changed there should be a re-match or re-evaluation and the whole job should be assessed, albeit with a reference back to the original match or evaluation. Just dealing with some of the factors could lead to inconsistencies.
An ECA has contacted the trust to request a re-evaluation and they have been referred to their line manager who is powerless to do anything about it. Why? Because the Trust know that what we are saying is right.
Make no mistake, we as UNISON fully support ECAs being moved into band 4, with the appropriate training, and on the appropriate pay spine, in order for them to be able to work together and respond to all categories of calls. This has been told to the trust, but unfortunately it is not the process they wish to adopt. They would much prefer to have you working at band 4 levels for band 3 money, and equally for some, at band 4 levels with band 3 training!
Paramedics should find this an all too familiar story!
This is the reality of the ‘great opportunity’ for ECAs that the trust is trying to sell.
Executive and senior level management are not expected to work to a higher level than they are trained or remunerated for, why should band 3’s?
Vote YES!!!
