A trade union has described a planned review of the lowest pay band in the health service as a breakthrough in the fight against poverty.

Unison's Health Committee welcomed a decision by the Scottish Government to review of the lowest pay band one in the NHS.

It said the move highlights the benefits of partnership working which has been the basis of industrial relations in NHS Scotland since 1999.

Unison said it further enshrines the commitment of Scottish Government and the Trades Unions to eradicating low pay in the NHS.

It also believes the move would give NHS Scotland an opportunity to promote career progression within the Agenda For Change framework.

Committee chairman Tom Waterson said: "This initiative with the Scottish Government is a major step forward to fulfilling our commitment and indeed Scottish Government's commitment to improving the lives of our dedicated NHS staff.

"Further, to have done so without any disruption to our Health Service and our membership again shows what can be achieved when all the parties engage in partnership working."

Regional Organiser for NHS Glasgow and Clyde, Matt McLaughlin said, "Scotland's biggest Health Board worked actively with UNISON to invest in support staff, the result provided a higher salary for low paid workers, but it also ensured that the skills, flexibility, range of duties and of course recruitment and retention were significantly enhanced, providing many benefits for the health board and a direct benefit to patients."