NHM management decided to take a cautious approach to the 2014 pay offer, despite record visitor numbers and successful exhibitions. Yet again, staff were fobbed off with promises of “jam tomorrow” – with a review of pay and reward at the planning stage.

However other national museums have exploited flexibilities agreed with the Department for Culture, Media and Sport over pay, borrowing and procurement. 

There have already been several settlements of 1.5% in the sector, including South Kensington neighbours, the Science Museum and the V&A.

At a pay meeting, members were angry that management have failed to maximise the possible pay offer. Members are having to cope with big increases in pension contributions, travel costs and energy bills.

In a consultative ballot, with a strong turnout, there was unanimous rejection of the offer and very strong support for a campaign to improve the offer.