Council housing repair staff at Barnet Group begin strike action

Monday 17 October 2022
For immediate release

Council housing repair staff at Barnet Group begin strike action

Council housing repair staff working for the Barnet Group have walked out in a dispute over sick pay, says UNISON today (Monday).

The workers have voted for strike action after a colleague was denied sick pay despite being injured at work.

UNISON says the worker was three weeks away from signing a new contract which would have entitled them to sick pay.

The Barnet Group is refusing to provide any support for the employee, according to the union.

UNISON Greater London regional secretary Jo Galloway said: “It’s really disappointing that the Barnet Group has taken this decision.

“The country is currently experiencing the worst cost-of-living crisis seen in recent years. Many workers are struggling, and sick pay is a lifeline for them.

“Barnet Group must reconsider their decision and work with UNISON to end this dispute.”

Notes to editors:
– There will be a picket line organised by Barnet UNISON at Grahame Park Housing Office, 17-19, The Concourse, London NW9 5XA from 7.30-8.30am every day
– 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 contact:
Emma Davey M: 07432 733187 E: e.davey@unison.co.uk