Sheaff, Michael (1993) Restructuring health services and labour : management and union relations in an English health authority. PhD thesis, University of Warwick.

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Abstract

This research explores the state of health service trade unionism in the 1980' s
and considers its prospects for the future. This is located within the context of trade
unionism in general and more specifically within the public services. Historically
trade unions have reflected the contours of capitalist work organisations and the
social relations within them.The review of British trade unionism in the 1980's
therefore considers the impact of institutional factors together with broader social
processes upon unions and the "models" of union behaviour which have emerged.
The development of trade unionism in the health service is examined to consider
how far it can be understood in similar terms. It proceeds from a review of
work organisation and management in the NHS which is used to identify a continuing
emphasis by the State on cost-containment in the form of efficiency gains.
Attempts to introduce greater "rationality" in bureaucratic forms have confronted
the influence of the medical profession in the locally negotiated order. However,
more recent changes can be presented as introducing more market-oriented criteria.
The possible implications of this new environment for health service trade
unionism are considered.
A single Health Authority case study is used to examine the types of
opportunities which may be created for alternative models of trade unionism,
described in terms of bargaining, professionalising and campaigning. Following
some general information on the Health Authority and its context, six selected
episodes are used to consider the application of alternative strategies. Each
illustrates contradictory pressures to which unions may be subject. Finally, the
analytical questions on the relationship of public service work to capitalist work
organisation, and the consequences for trade unionism are reconsidered.

Item Type:	Thesis (PhD)
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor R Medicine > R Medicine (General)
Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH):	Health services administration -- England, Industrial relations -- England, Labor unions -- Great Britain, Health services administration -- Employee participation -- England
Official Date:	September 1993
Dates:	Date Event September 1993 Submitted
Institution:	University of Warwick
Theses Department:	School of Industrial and Business Studies
Thesis Type:	PhD
Publication Status:	Unpublished
Supervisor(s)/Advisor:	[Not specified]
Extent:	vi, 260 leaves.
Language:	eng

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