GMB members have been striking at Airedale Hospital. Over 150 cleaners, catering staff, porters, security and other non-clinical staff are demanding harmonisation for staff employed by the hospital trust’s ‘wholly owned subsidiary’, AGH Solutions (AGHS). There is now a two-tier workforce. Those who transferred from the NHS are still on full ‘agenda for change’ (AFC) pay and conditions, while those who have been more recently employed get fewer paid holidays, worse sick pay and maternity pay, lower enhancements for Sunday working, and significantly worse pension arrangements.
Airedale Hospital strike
The strike is solid, with 90% of the GMB members voted in favour of strike action. Whether transferred from the NHS or newer staff, they know that it is wrong for colleagues who do the exact same job to be on different conditions. Management of AGHS tried to buy off the newer staff by offering them 20p more an hour than the AFC rate – but they refused, not just because it would create further differences between fellow workers, but also because it would not compensate for the lower enhancement rates and worse pension.
GMB rep Gemma Pemberton, who works in sterile services, said that they are all determined to win equivalent pay and conditions for staff, and that they also have full support from the UNISON and Unite members who work for AGHS. Judging by the number of people hooting their car horns, the strikers also have widespread support from other hospital staff and the local community.
Talks break down
GMB members met Health Secretary Wes Streeting at the recent TUC Conference in Brighton, and he promised to intervene in the dispute by contacting the NHS Trust to find a way forward. There is no sign of any developments there yet.
During the first of three strike days (12 September), the strikers tried to reach an agreement with AGHS, but talks broke down when managers refused to consider any compromises. Commenting on the breakdown, GMB organiser Joe Wheatley said:
“After two months of no engagement, senior management reached out the day before the first strike.
“The managing director claimed he wanted to take AGH Solutions in a different direction from the NHS pay, terms and conditions – but that is exactly what our members want from this strike.
“The trust’s proposals fell well short of this. Now, because of their unwillingness to move closer towards full harmonisation, the strike will continue.
“These workers do a vital job ensuring Airedale Hospital can run; it’s completely out of order that they are being denied the same rights and recognition as their NHS colleagues.”
Support further strike days at Airedale Hospital
Further strike days are planned for 1, 2 and 3 October, when there will again be pickets outside the main entrance to Airedale Hospital, on Skipton Road, Steeton, Keighley.
If you are able to support the GMB hardship fund for the strikers, the details you need are:
- GMB YORKSHIRE TRADE FUND
- Sort code: 60-83-01
- Account number: 33010724
- Ref: AGH Strike
Photo and additional material by Caroline Bedale.
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