Monday 17 August 2020
For immediate release
Council plans could see hundreds of jobs lost and local services slashed, says UNISON
Croydon Council staff are to protest tomorrow over cost cutting plans by the local authority that puts over 400 posts at risk and will see vital services reduced, says UNISON today (Monday).
The demonstration is set to take place outside the council’s headquarters on Tuesday lunchtime.
It is in response to a move by the council to save nearly £20m over three years, which UNISON says will harm services for local residents and threatens the livelihoods of dedicated employees including social workers and library staff.
The union is also calling on the government to increase funding levels for councils like Croydon to protect local services and cover the extra costs of the pandemic.
UNISON London regional organiser Louise O’Hara said: “Council workers and Croydon residents shouldn’t have to pay the price for the coronavirus response.
“Staff have gone above and beyond during the pandemic and to be repaid like this is just immoral and outrageous. The council must pause these plans and find a way to save jobs and protect services.”
Notes to editors:
– The protest will be held on Tuesday 18 August at noon outside Bernard Weatherill House.
– UNISON is the UK’s largest union, with more than 1.3 million members providing public services – in education, local government, the NHS, police service and energy. They are employed in the public, voluntary and private sectors.
Media contacts:
Emma Davey M: 07432 733187 E: e.davey@unison.co.uk