A strike among specialist health workers is now the longest in NHS history as a group of phlebotomists have reached their 200th day of industrial action.

Trade union Unison, which represents Gloucestershire phlebotomists, said they are not paid enough for the “skilled work they do” taking and handling blood samples.

Caroline Hayhurst, one of 37 striking phlebotomists, went to a meeting with Gloucestershire NHS Trust on Friday and said it provided “hope” a resolution can be found.

The trust has been approached for comment. Its chief executive Kevin McNamara previously said he was keen to stick within the national pay framework so there is “fairness and consistency” across the NHS.