HUNDREDS of nurses and other medical staff at St Helens and Whiston hospitals are believed to have walked out in dispute over pay on Monday morning.

Union members in the NHS joined the national strike, accusing the Government of showing “contempt” for workers. 

The action is taking place from 7am to 11am.

Anthony Lockhart, Unison branch secretary at St Helens and Knowsley said: "Staff are on average 10per cent worse off than when the coalition came to power and this means their families are suffering and morale is hitting rock bottom.

"A well-motivated workforce saves lives so we need to cherish and support our NHS staff who work day in, day out caring for others.

“The NHS runs on the goodwill of its workers, but this Government has shown utter contempt for them by refusing to give any pay increase to the vast majority this year and next.

“NHS members don’t take action often or lightly, but they have been put in a position where they feel they simply have to take a stand.”

The Department of Health said the NHS couldn't afford the union's demands.

The government has given NHS staff a one per cent pay rise, but not for those who get automatic progression-in-the-job increases.

Unison has 300,000 members who work for the health service in England.

The Department of Health has said the NHS could not afford a general pay rise on top of incremental increases.

A spokesperson for St Helens and Knowsley Teaching Hospitals NHS trust said: “Following the results of some trade union ballots, a four hour period of industrial action will take place on Monday, October 13, from 7am until 11am.

“The Trust is working closely with all staff, their union representatives, and other local NHS organisations to minimise any disruption to hospital services."

The hospital added that all urgent and emergency care will continue to be provided.

However, bosses have asked patients to consider the seriousness of their condition prior to attending the Accident and Emergency Department.

Some non-urgent appointments have been re-scheduled and patients affected have been informed.

Patients advised by GPs to visit hospitals for routine blood tests are asked to attend after 11am.

A dedicated telephone helpline will be in operation from 7am until 11am. Call: 0151 430 1111 or visit the Trust website www.sthk.nhs.uk