Nicola Sturgeon has announced that the Scottish Government will give NHS and adult social care workers a £500 thank you payment for their work during the coronavirus pandemic.
The one-off payment is intended to act as thanks for workers' "extraordinary service in this toughest of years".
Delivering her keynote speech at the SNP conference today, the First Minister said: "There was, and remains, a particular recognition of the incredible, often heroic, efforts of those who work in hospitals and other health and care settings.
"That is why many of us put rainbows in our windows and stood on our doorsteps to applaud them.
"The applause was important. But it was never enough. Our appreciation must be shown in a more tangible way.
"Now, as it happens, NHS staff in Scotland are already the best paid anywhere in the UK. And adult social care workers here are paid at least the Real Living Wage – a higher rate than many of their colleagues in England and Wales."
Ms Sturgeon also said that a new pay deal for NHS Agenda for Change staff was in the early stages of being negotiated, saying they would "do our level best to give NHS staff the pay increase they deserve", but warned it would take time to become a reality.
However, the First Minister added that the government wanted to deliver recognition to frontline health and care workers now.
She continued: "I can announce today that, on behalf of us all, the Scottish Government will give every full time NHS and adult social care worker £500 as a one-off thank you payment for their extraordinary service in this toughest of years.
"Those who work part time will get a proportionate share."
Ms Sturgeon said it was a "no strings attached" payment and will be delivered this financial year.
The First Minister also confirmed a £100million winter fund to help struggling families through the covid crisis, which will include a £100 payment for families whose children receive free school meals.
