Chancellor’s spending pledges are a decade too late, says UNISON

Commenting on Chancellor Sajid Javid’s speech today (Monday) at the Conservative Party conference in Manchester, UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis said:

“Many people will be wary of the Chancellor’s promises to splash the cash knowing an election is just around the corner.

“If it’s so easy to conjure up this money now, it’s hard to understand why the government has been running public spending into the ground for a decade. It seems the Tories have been nurturing magic money trees all along.”

Notes to editors:
– UNISON is the biggest union representing care workers. It is also 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 both the public and private sectors.

Media contacts:
Anthony Barnes T: 020 7121 5255 M: 07834 864794 E: a.barnes@unison.co.uk
Liz Chinchen T: 020 7121 5463 M: 07778 158175 E: l.chinchen@unison.co.uk

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Thousands turn out to protest at Tory conference

On Sunday, UNISON led thousands in protest at the start of the Conservative Party Conference in Manchester.

UNISON members in the North West, who have been fighting on the front line of public service cuts for the past decade, led protestors with balloons and banners stating “Don’t Trump our NHS”.

Members in the North West are currently involved in two industrial disputes, with hospital workers in Blackpool and St Helens currently in the midst of three-day strikes.

UNISON regional Secretary Kevan Nelson said: “The two industrial disputes which our members are engaged in currently are a direct result of the damaging austerity and outsourcing agenda pursued by Tory governments throughout the last decade.

“In both cases, workers who would have previous been employed directly by a council or the health service have seen their pay and working conditions eroded after being outsourced.

“Our members working for Compass are asking for a pay rise of less than £1 per hour, and yet the multi-national behemoth, which made £1.7bn in profit last year, refuses to pay up.

“We can and will win these disputes. But make no mistake, these workers should never have faced this hardship and it is only a change of Government which can turn the tide on outsourcing, privatisation and cuts.”

Around five thousand people attended the march.

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Are you local champs ready?

“We’ve decided we are doing a week, highlighting the hidden heroes of Sunderland Council. The people who look after the public without them realising it,” Diane explains.

“When we do pay negotiations we often highlight the frontline staff, the social workers, refuse workers – people like that. But Local Service Champions Day is going to be all about the hidden heroes.

“I’ve got the council’s chief exec on board. He’s getting his directors to nominate team’s that do work that is crucial but hidden from the public. He’s said he wants this to be a priority.

“I got him on board with the campaign, because his ‘Vision 2030’ is all about challenging the perception that council workers are lazy. He wants to get the public on side. And that’s what the local champions campaign is all about.

“We’re getting free advertising space in 15 bus stops throughout the city and they’ve given us a reduced rate on a massive digital board as you drive into Sunderland.

“We’ve got some fantastic photographs of people and we came up with straplines to explain what they do. For example, for our environmental health worker it will say:

The environmental health team are not always seen as glamorous – often only known as rat-catchers – but they are driven by a desire to protect residents and provide a vibrant, healthy city to be proud of. 

Sunderland council’s environmental health team – improving the city’s conditions. Because just good enough will never be good enough for our residents. 

“The idea is that people standing at the bus stops can read that and think ‘oh, they don’t just catch rats!‘”

“We’ve also hired an ad van to go around the city for three days, particularly where these people work.

“The leader and chief exec have also given the go-ahead to host an event to announce winners of what we’re calling our ‘hidden heroes’ award. We just want to make an absolute fuss of them.

“There has been such a positive reaction to the campaign because I think it’s time for local government workers to shine. It really annoys us that local government workers have been absolutely squeezed with budgets. They’re just at the bottom.

“But we’ve gone round and got people involved. We’ve got lots of young, fresh faced people who are so enthusiastic.

“It was so lovely last week because you could see the smiles on everyone’s faces. They could see they were being appreciated. They’re totally on board.”

Find out more about Local Service Champions Day

Order new champions materials

Find out more about the campaign and share the video!

 

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Time to reform eviction law: scrap section 21

Renting laws in the UK are on the verge of huge change – but only if you have your say.

In a move to tackle our critically unstable rental system, the government is proposing to bring an end to no-fault evictions (also known as section 21 evictions).

If made into law, this will improve renting for every one of the 11 million people living in privately rented homes in this country. It will finally let renters put down roots and make a home. It will also tackle one of our country’s biggest causes of homelessness – eviction from privately rented homes.

They’re also proposing to introduce more stability for people who rent by making Fixed Term or Assured Tenancies the norm, with assurances for landlords that they can regain their property if they want to sell or move into it themselves (known as a section 8 eviction). This would phase out precarious Assured Shorthand Tenancies (ASTs).

But the solutions on the table aren’t perfect. UNISON has consistently opposed section 21 evictions and supports the removal of section 21, which allow landlords to evict tenants without reason at the end of their fixed term.

However, the new Assured Tenancy regime proposed, where tenancies will be protected for only the first two years, falls far short of the open-ended (indefinite) flexible tenancies that UNISON has called for – and which tenants deserve.

Whilst Section 8 is a step in the right direction – landlords must have a reason to evict or repossess their property – UNISON believes the proposals need to be more robust to protect tenants from rogue landlords.

UNISON has produced a briefing on the consultation, which ends on 12 October. The briefing outlines key proposals, the implications on renting and what members can do to influence tenancy reform in England to make sure renters have the security they need.

UNISON, alongside Generation Rent, will be submitting a full national response to the proposals, in which we will call for no time limits to tenancies (open ended tenancies) and for safeguards to prevent tenants from being evicted from their homes when they are not at fault to give them more stability and security in renting.

If you want to see a more secure rental market, and less homelessness, make sure you have your say in the government’s consultation, which closes on 12 October.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

• Download and share the UNISON briefing: https://www.unison.org.uk/content/uploads/2019/09/Tenancy-Reform-England-UNISON-Briefing-SEPTEMBER-2019.pdf
• Find out more about the government consultation, including how to respond, and download the consultation document: MHCLG consultation
• Sign up to Generation Rent’s Open Letter calling for an end to Unfair Evictions
• Take part in Generation Rent’s survey on the consultation

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Proposals could protect the NHS from a no-deal Brexit

Commenting on the publication today (Thursday) of NHS England and NHS Improvement’s formal response to the consultation on legislative change proposals, UNISON head of health Sara Gorton said:

“This is long overdue. These proposals would protect the NHS from the worst excesses of privatisation and end the situation where different parts of the health service have had to compete against each other.

“The government must act now to get rid of the most damaging aspects of the Health and Social Care Act, which have caused chaos for more than seven years.

“Our precious NHS needs to be in the best possible state so it’s protected when the UK leaves the EU – whether it’s with or without a deal. It must be able to fend off the circling vultures who would see it torn up in pursuit of profit.

“It’s time to draw a line under a system that continually wastes time and money on pointless tendering while the health service itself is strapped for cash.

“The future must be about collaboration not competition so patients and staff remain at the heart of the NHS.”

Notes to editors:
– 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 both the public and private sectors.

Media contacts:
Anthony Barnes T: 0207 121 5255 M: 07834 864794 E: a.barnes@unison.co.uk
Liz Chinchen T: 0207 121 5463 M: 07778 158175 E: l.chinchen@unison.co.uk

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UNISON appoints national nursing officer

Stuart Tuckwood has been appointed UNISON’s national nursing officer to help the union promote and defend the interests of nurses. He took up the position this month (September).

A registered adult nurse, Stuart spent the past five years at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge, where he worked in major trauma rehabilitation and later as a charge nurse in the neurosurgery and neurology departments.

Most recently Stuart has specialised in critical care outreach at Addenbrooke’s, where he was part of the trust’s rapid-response team, managing deteriorating patients and delivering advanced life support.

After completing a diploma in tropical nursing at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine in 2018, Stuart spent six months working in Myanmar, helping one of the country’s biggest hospitals improve its trauma intensive care delivery.

A former UNISON steward, Stuart has been a vocal campaigner for the interests of healthcare staff and is a staunch opponent of austerity and spending cuts to the NHS and social care.

Speaking about his UNISON role, Stuart said: “I’m excited and very proud to represent nursing at the UK’s largest union in healthcare. I’ve been lucky to see first-hand the amazing work nurses and healthcare staff do for patients and the public every day, despite the many challenges we face.

“Having been on the frontline I know it’s vital we make sure the current pay deal is the start of a process to restore and improve the value of nurse’s pay and not the end of it.

“We also need to make sure the right support is there for nurses coming to the NHS from overseas and must win the argument over safe staffing levels and proper student nurse funding.

“There’s much to do, but I’m in the right place to campaign for new and existing nurses to have the most fulfilling and rewarding careers possible.”

Notes to editors:
– 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 both the public and private sectors.
– A photograph of Stuart is available on request.

Media contacts:
Garfield Myrie T: 0207 121 5546 M: 07432 741565 E: g.myrie@unison.co.uk
Siobhan Cooley T: 0207 121 5555 M: 0781 6538199 E: s.cooley@unison.co.uk

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The UK needs a Labour government, says UNISON

Tuesday 24 September 2019
For immediate release

The UK needs a Labour government, says UNISON

Commenting on Jeremy Corbyn’s speech to Labour Party conference today (Tuesday), UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis said:

“Today Jeremy Corbyn set out an inspiring vision for a better future.

“One that puts people first and the heart back into communities with new rights for workers, a higher minimum wage, and improved social care.

“With better-funded public services, an end to privatisation and the scrapping of the vindictive trade union act.

“At a time of such turmoil and division in Westminster and across our country, Labour must now get behind that vision and win the upcoming election.

“Our public services and our communities need a Labour government with Jeremy Corbyn as Prime Minister.”

Notes to editors:
– UNISON is the biggest union representing care workers. It is also 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 both the public and private sectors.

Media contacts:
Liz Chinchen M: 07778 158175 E: l.chinchen@unison.co.uk
Anthony Barnes M: 07834 864794 E: a.barnes@unison.co.uk

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In pictures: UNISON backing the school climate strike

On Friday 20 September, thousands of children and adults walked out of their schools and workplaces across the UK to join the global climate strike.

UNISON regional offices and branches across the country helped mobilise members and co-ordinate local demonstrations – here’s a flavour of the day’s activities.

UNISON Scottish joint council reps took time out of their meetings to show solidarity with all the school climate strikers.

UNISON Scotland members joined the northern-most climate strike in Shetland, a rural area where the impacts of climate change are felt the most.

UNISON Edinburgh joined 15,000 strikers in the city centre.

 

 

 

 

UNISON Doncaster and UNISON Yorkshire and Humberside mobilised people to join the local climate strike and ran a stall that gave advice on how to be more environmentally friendly at work, or how to become a UNISON green rep.

 

 

 

 

UNISON Manchester brought out several banners to join the thousands of protestors in the city centre.

UNISON Liverpool and Hope universities branch joined the strike in Liverpool, and North West regional convenor Paula Barker delivered a speech to the crowds.

UNISON South East paused their regional strategy weekend in Reading so organisers could join the climate march.

As many of us know, one day of action is not enough to solve the climate crisis. That’s why UNISON is encouraging members to “go green” at work all year round. Share your ideas here to inspire others.

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Court decision shows Boris Johnson isn’t fit to be Prime Minister

Commenting on the Supreme Court ruling today (Tuesday) that the decision to suspend Parliament was unlawful, UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis said:

“A man who thinks he’s above the law is a man not fit to be Prime Minister.

“His blatant attempt to shut down democracy has failed. Now politicians can return to holding the government to account and stopping the UK from plunging off a no-deal cliff.

​“If there is no new deal, Boris Johnson must ask Europe for an extension. Then we must have an election so a Labour government can sort out this mess.”

Notes to editors:
– UNISON is the biggest union representing care workers. It is also 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 both the public and private sectors.

Media contacts:
Liz Chinchen M: 07778 158175 E: l.chinchen@unison.co.uk
Anthony Barnes M: 07834 864794 E: a.barnes@unison.co.uk

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Labour would change social care for the better

Commenting on John McDonnell’s speech to the Labour Party conference in Brighton today (Monday), UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis said:

“This is a welcome set of solid proposals that will improve the lives of so many.

“It’s a real agenda for fairness and decency for all our care workers, and for every elderly or vulnerable person dependent upon on their support.”

Notes to editors:
– 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 both the public and private sectors.

Media contacts (in Brighton):
Liz Chinchen M: 07778 158175 E: l.chinchen@unison.co.uk
Anthony Barnes M: 07834 864794 E: a.barnes@unison.co.uk

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A Labour government would mean social care gets the attention it deserves, says UNISON

Commenting today (Sunday) on the Labour Party’s plans to introduce free personal care for the elderly, UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis said:

“The government has ignored social care for almost a decade, a neglect made worse by Brexit’s dominance of the political agenda.

“Labour’s focus on a sector needing urgent attention and its pledge to invest significantly will come as a huge relief to the elderly living in fear of selling their own homes or languishing in hospital, unable to return home in the absence of vital care support.

“Care workers too will feel at long last there’s a government on their side, as councils would again be able to deliver high quality services to residents, without relying on private firms more concerned about with profit than care standards.”

Notes to editors:
– UNISON is the biggest union representing care workers. It is also 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 both the public and private sectors.

Media contacts:
Liz Chinchen M: 07778 158175 E: l.chinchen@unison.co.uk
Anthony Barnes M: 07834 864794 E: a.barnes@unison.co.uk

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The NHS, its patients and its staff all need a Labour government, says UNISON

Speaking in the health debate at the Labour Party conference in Brighton today (Sunday), UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis said:

“The NHS is our party’s greatest achievement, the jewel in the crown of the welfare state. It’s still free at the point of need, and a beacon of humanity and human decency.

“But Boris Johnson is a total disgrace. Last week he shamefully used the NHS as a cheap backdrop for a cheap stunt, posing for pictures and prancing through wards. Displaying incredible hypocrisy after a decade of Tory neglect, cuts and crises.

“It’s no wonder Omar Salem confronted the Prime Minister and spoke the truth to power, calling him out because what he saw is what we’ve known all our lives. You cannot trust a Tory with our NHS.

“Time and time again the Conservatives have slashed the NHS, pushing it to breaking point. But health workers are far more than extras in a cheap political stunt. Nurses, doctors, cleaners, healthcare assistants, paramedics, catering staff and porters are all essential and valued workers in the NHS team.

“The staff at Whipps Cross Hospital, who Boris Johnson sought to use this week, saved my life. Some years ago I was given a cancer diagnosis that gave me months to live. Yet they pulled me through, with their skill, care and compassion. That’s why, every minute of every day, I will fight to protect everything our NHS stands for.

“But the NHS is under siege, facing threats it will be sold off and privatised, with wholly owned subsidiary companies the latest tax wheeze.

“The NHS must never ever be sold off to US multinationals and parcelled up as part of a grubby free trade deal with Donald Trump.

“The Labour Party must always stand up for our NHS. It must always be a truly national health service – one that’s properly funded with decent pay for all NHS staff.

“If we are to save our NHS there is only one option. Labour has to win power.

“But divided parties never get elected so we owe it to our NHS to leave Brighton this week united.

“What the NHS needs, what the public and health workers need – like never before – is a Labour government.

“There must be less triggering, less of the denouncing and less of the deleting. Let’s get behind our leader, get out there to ensure the NHS stays in our hands and get our great party back in power.”

Notes to editors
– 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 both the public and private sectors.

Media contacts:
Liz Chinchen M: 07778 158175 E: l.chinchen@unison.co.uk
Anthony Barnes M: 07834 864794 E: a.barnes@unison.co.uk

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We need “unity and a focus on winning the upcoming election”, says UNISON

Speaking ahead of the start of the Labour Party annual conference today (Saturday) in Brighton, UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis said:

“The sole focus this week should be on taking the fight to Boris Johnson.

“What we need at this time is unity and a focus on winning the upcoming election.

“Anything else is a betrayal of UNISON members and working people everywhere – all of whom are relying on us to deliver a Labour government.”

Notes to editors:
– 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 both the public and private sectors.

Media contacts:
Liz Chinchen M: 07778 158175 E: press@unison.co.uk
Anthony Barnes M: 07834 864794 E: a.barnes@unison.co.uk

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Blog: Climate change is the greatest single threat humanity faces

Our whole world is facing an existential crisis – climate change. Unless action is taken to reduce emissions, drastic and permanent damage will be done to our planet with a disastrous impact on future generations.

This is the greatest single threat humanity faces. It’s time to stop talking and take real action.

I know that UNISON will continue to be at the forefront of fighting climate change. We were the first union to establish a green task force and we’ve initiated cutting-edge campaigns – as well as sending delegations to the climate change demonstrations in Copenhagen and Paris where governments were negotiating international targets.

This week, as young people demand politicians take seriously the damage being done to our planet and act to save its future – they will have our support.

We’ll be encouraging employees to reduce their own carbon footprints but more importantly ensure their employers have a plan to green their workplaces completely.

That way we can all begin to make a big difference quickly.

I know from work across our union – like in Scotland, where Green UNISON Day is already an annual fixture and will take place today (September 20th) – UNISON members are taking this seriously. But while it’s Scotland who are leading on this, there’s no reason why UNISON members across the UK can’t get involved. The NEC declared this week UNISON Green week and up and down the country our branches have responded. From canteen stalls, solidarity selfies, new volunteers for branch green reps, tree planting and using lunch hours to join climate strike rallies.

Critical to the fight against climate change is the need for a just transition – where we work to deliver green solutions while defending jobs, working people and the worst off in society.

There is a simple and straightforward answer: public ownership of the energy retail market – that is those companies that sell energy to consumers. It would address the urgent need for action on climate issues by encouraging customers to focus on renewable alternatives, while also delivering a better deal for consumers.

Public ownership is the best solution for tackling climate change, keeping costs down for consumers and protecting jobs in the energy sector. Tackling the climate crisis demands that the government delivers a radical green new deal – and UNISON will fight to put public ownership at the heart of it.

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“We will play a leading role in chasing the Tories out of town”

UNISON branches nationwide are preparing to protest at the Tory Party Conference on 29 September.

UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis said: “Boris Johnson and the Tory Party appear hell bent on driving our country and our public services off a no-deal cliff edge.

“That means a real risk of food shortages, medicine shortages and staff shortages in vital public services.

“All this is happening because they want a grubby trade deal with Donald Trump, which would put our NHS and other public services up for sale to US multinationals.

“UNISON won’t stand by when our public services and UNISON members’ jobs are at risk.”

With the rapidly shifting political environment, the march will highlight the risk of a no-deal Brexit leaving the NHS at the mercy of a trade deal with the USA. However, this isn’t the first time UNISON has played a central role in protesting at the Conservative party conference in Manchester.

UNISON members in the North West, who have been fighting on the front line of public service cuts for the past decade, are leading the demonstration.

UNISON regional convenor Paula Barker said: “Our members have suffered a decade of ideologically-motivated spending cuts which have left our public services on the brink.

“Councils in the North West have been some of the worst hit in the country. Cuts have devastated our communities, costing livelihoods and in some cases, costing lives.

“And yet the Tories have the cheek to turn up on our doorstep and expect us to roll out the red carpet – they will receive no such treatment. UNISON North West will play a leading role in chasing the Tories out of town.

“Whether this is your first demonstration or you’re a seasoned protester, this is your opportunity to stand together with other UNISON members and say that enough is enough.”

Members in the North West are currently involved in two industrial disputes, with three-day strikes by hospital workers in Blackpool, and St Helens due to commence this week.

UNISON regional Secretary Kevan Nelson said: “The two industrial disputes which our members are engaged in currently are a direct result of the damaging austerity and outsourcing agenda pursued by Tory governments throughout the last decade.

“In both cases, workers who would have previous been employed directly by a council or the health service have seen their pay and working conditions eroded after being outsourced.

“Our members working for Compass are asking for a pay rise of less than £1 per hour, and yet the multi-national behemoth, which made £1.7bn in profit last year, refuses to pay up.

“We can and will win these disputes. But make no mistake, these workers should never have faced this hardship and it is only a change of Government which can turn the tide on outsourcing, privatisation and cuts.”

Tens of thousands of people are expected to attend.

The march will assemble at 12 noon on 29 September. Please email c.mcgurran@unison.co.uk to confirm whether your branch plans to attend the march.

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SSE planned sale shows precarious nature of UK energy market, says UNISON

Commenting today (Friday) on the news that energy company SSE is to sell its retail business to Ovo Energy, UNISON assistant general secretary Christina McAnea said:

“Staff at SSE will understandably be concerned their jobs might go following the move. That’s why we’ll be seeking assurances that not a single post disappears.

“The sale is yet another sign that the UK’s energy sector is in a precarious state. The solution is to take the consumer arms of the largest energy firms into public ownership.

“This would provide better security for jobs, help deliver the government’s carbon neutral target, encourage us all to be more energy efficient and deliver cheaper bills.”

Notes to editors:
– Earlier this year UNISON published Power to the People, which said nationalising the retail arms of the big six energy firms – British Gas (Centrica), SSE, E.ON, EDF Energy, Npower (Innogy) and Scottish Power – would help the UK become carbon neutral by 2050. The report said the move would create a new ‘green army’ of workers dedicated to helping businesses and the public become more energy efficient, cut their bills and save the planet.
– 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 both the public and private sectors.

Media contacts:
Liz Chinchen M: 07778 158175 E: l.chinchen@unison.co.uk

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An election is coming, so …

These are chaotic times. Parliament is suspended, there are battles in the courts and there’s the threat of a no-deal Brexit that never seems to fully go away.

On top of this, all the political parties seem to agree that a general election is coming. They just can’t decide when.

The one thing everyone can agree on is that change needs to happen.

And for change to happen we all need to vote. And the first step to being able to vote is to make sure you’re registered to vote.

While we wait for the date of the election, we can all get prepared and make sure we are registered. It only takes a few minutes.

Watch and share our film and make sure you’re registered to vote.

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Addaction staff strike over broken pay promises

Staff employed by Addaction in the North West took two days of strike action this week, in their struggle against broken promises over pay.

The 31 drug and alcohol support workers in Wigan and Leigh were previously employed by the NHS, but the service, which is commissioned by Wigan Council, was transferred to the London-based charity.

Workers continued to receive pay rises in line with those of NHS employees and were given assurances by the organisation’s managers that this would continue into the future.

However, when the 1% pay cap in the NHS was removed from April 2018, Addaction refused to implement the promised wage rise.

After exhausting the internal grievance process, staff were balloted by UNISON, with a 100% vote in favour of strike action.

A third round of Acas talks will take place on Tuesday 24 September to find an end to the dispute.

Leigh MP Jo Platt (pictured above, speaking at a strike rally yesterday, Thursday) and Wigan MP Lisa Nandy have thrown their support behind the striking workers.

Ms Nandy said: “Supporting people to overcome drug and alcohol addiction is an incredibly tough job and makes a difference for every single one of us in Wigan.

“Addaction’s employees deserve the pay settlement they were promised when they moved from the NHS to Addaction, and I am determined to stand with them and with UNISON to make sure they get it.”

UNISON rep Kathryn Herbert, who is a drug and alcohol worker, explained that staff were “incredibly disappointed and feel very let down”.

She said: “We didn’t plan to strike, but the lack of empathy shown towards us has actually strengthened our resolve and leaves us with no alternative but to continue our strike action for fair pay.”

UNISON North West regional manager Kevin Lucas said: “It’s simply wrong that Addaction bosses take public money from our local council and yet refuse to pay staff the proper rate for the job.

“Many workers turned down the opportunity to take jobs within the health service as they were assured they would continue to receive full NHS pay when they transferred to Addaction. The employer refused to honour this commitment at the first opportunity.

“These committed staff remain steadfast in their demand for the pay rise repeatedly promised by Addaction. Meanwhile, their employer delays and obfuscates at every turn, showing no desire to resolve what is ultimately a simple issue.

“We hope it proves third time lucky at Acas and Addaction arrives ready to pay staff what they’re owed. This is the only way to end the ongoing strike.”

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Blog: Incredible UNISON women leading the way

The TUC Congress in Brighton came to a close yesterday. It was a fantastic one for our union, and especially for the incredible UNISON women leading the way. Throughout the week it’s been our delegates making the case for better public services, standing up for our communities and taking home some of the conference’s biggest accolades. UNISON members made passionate and thoughtful speeches on a vast range of issues that affect working people and the communities you serve.

I am especially proud of the incredible UNISON women who’ve been awarded with TUC gold badges – one of the greatest honours in our movement – this week.

Lyn Marie O’Hara, who won the organising award, was instrumental to the Glasgow Equal Pay dispute – a huge success for our union. Her story reflects the experience of thousands of women in Glasgow and across the country who have taken action to fight for their pay, their rights and their jobs in UNISON. She spoke with pride about her fight for fairness, and in turn we are all so proud of her.

Pat Heron, who won the women’s award, is a passionate advocate for the more than a million women in our union. I’m proud that Pat says UNISON helped her to work on women’s issues in her workplace. I know that nationally, regionally and in her branch, Pat will continue to lead the fight to make all workplaces more equal for women.

To have our union win two gold badged this week was a great result – but to have another of our members, Wendy Nichols, address Congress as Labour Party Chair and fraternal speaker made this a better week still for our union. Wendy has served our union and the Labour Party with distinction. The ovation her speech received and the award of a gold badge from the TUC shows that our whole movement shares our gratitude for her dedication.

These are just some of the incredible UNISON women leading the way not only in our union, but across our labour movement. Their successes are something that we should be proud of and shout loudly about – as we encourage others to follow in their footsteps.

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Out-of-pocket workers to take on outsourcing giant in legal battle

A major outsourcing firm is facing legal action after a contract change left some low-waged staff unable to pay their bills, says UNISON today (Wednesday).

More than 260 hospital and school workers across the country are taking ISS to an employment tribunal because a badly implemented change to their pay cycle left them out of pocket and pushed them into debt.

The employees accuse ISS, which has been awarded millions of pounds worth of government cleaning and catering contracts, of breach of contract and making unauthorised deductions from their wages in tribunal claims backed by UNISON.

The workers did not receive their wages correctly, as a result of a move to fortnightly pay in April and May that continues to leave them short of money, says UNISON. Many low-paid workers had to ask for loans because they were unable to pay for essentials and regular outgoings such as rent.

A date is still to be set for a tribunal hearing. UNISON says the company must reimburse the workers and put right their financial hardship.

UNISON’s acting national business secretary Donna Rowe-Merriman said: “All employees should be paid on time for the work they’ve done, not racking up debts due to their employer’s incompetence.

“Millions in this country are only just managing to balance their household budgets, so if their wages don’t turn up, it can instantly push them into a spiral of debt. The long-term effects can be devastating because they don’t have the luxury of rainy-day funds.

“These low-paid ISS staff were left unable to pay rent, buy food or meet their bills because of this payroll fiasco. They should not be saddled with debt for years because of the blunders of a company racking up eye-watering profits.”

Notes to editors:
– 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 both the public and private sectors.
– ISS has been awarded more than £300m worth of contracts since 2015. It brought in the payroll changes between 18 April 2019 and 9 May 2019 to pay staff fortnightly.

Media contacts:
Garfield Myrie T: 020 7121 5546 M: 07432741565 E: g.myrie@unison.co.uk
Anthony Barnes M: 07834 864794 E: a.barnes@unison.co.uk

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“It’s a fantastic learning opportunity. Astounding. Amazing.”

Over 150,000 UNISON members work for private companies that deliver public services.

And every year UNISON runs a learning event so these members can meet each other and help develop the skills and confidence to deal with the particular issues in their workplace.

This year’s private contractors seminar takes place 9-10 November in Leicester. Discussions will focus on mental health at work, sick leave and sick pay, and health and safety.

The deadline for applications is on the 30 September. UNISON branches will cover all costs for members.

UNISON national officer Abby Kimantas says: “We’ve been running this learning event for a number of years, and it’s proving to be a really enjoyable weekend for members working in private companies that deliver public services.

“Whether you’re a hospital cleaner, care worker, administrator or work in a school kitchen, a lot of people face the same issues in different workplaces. It’s a great space to come together, share your experiences and learn how to improve your workplace.

“This year we’re particularly keen to see more registrations from women. Just over 70% of UNISON members are women, and the private contractors seminar is a great space to develop your skills as a union activist.”

Michelle Tymon, works as a domestic at Blackpool Victoria Hospital and has been attending the seminar for three years. She agrees: “When I first went three years ago, I was daunted and anxious about walking into a room of people I didn’t know.

“But everyone was so open and friendly and welcoming. We were all there to gain knowledge and experience, and I’ve ended up building a really good network of people across the country, and we all support each other throughout the year.”

“Most of all, it’s a fantastic learning opportunity. Some of the workshops that have been put on at the seminar have been really good – especially the one on collective bargaining. That’s really helped me with my job, and if I hadn’t started going to the seminar, I wouldn’t have ever known.

“It’s a space to gain knowledge and meet people just like you, who are there to learn something too.”

Chris Akalula, a security supervisor in London and rep for Serco has been attending the private contractors seminar for the past three years. “The seminar is an amazing place to meet people, exchange experiences and ideas and discuss the common issues we face,” he says.

“There are lots of people who work in the health sector there, and when you meet people who are working in similar jobs but for different employers, you realise that the problems you’re facing happen across the industry, and you can get advice on how to handle them and learn from others’ experiences and mistakes.”

“It’s an opportunity to relax, unwind, learn and connect. I had some of the best training I’ve had on negotiating, which was so practical, and really gave me the skills to lead successful pay negotiations.

“Everything UNISON warned me about played out, and thanks to the training I knew exactly how to handle it. It was astounding.

“The seminar is also a great space to hear more about topical issues like menopause, mental health, stress, sickness absence, pay grades,TUPE and employment law.

“These issues can be demotivating and divisive, but being able to discuss them together and have a voice is amazing.

“On top of this, the accommodation is world class, the food is beautiful and you come away from it feeling powerful.”

The deadline for applications is 30 September, remember your UNISON branch will cover the cost of your attendance, and you can apply here.

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Blog: We need Parliament to be recalled to stop no-deal Brexit once and for all

Our union’s position on a no-deal Brexit has been consistent from the outset. It’s an existential threat to our nation’s public services, our economy and our communities. At a time when public services are stretched to breaking point, jumping off the no-deal cliff edge would be an act of vandalism which would wreck lives and cost them too.

So it was great to hear Labour’s shadow Brexit secretary Keir Starmer speaking so clearly and passionately against the risk of no-deal at the TUC this morning. I’ve worked closely with Keir over the past two years, and know how hard he’s working to try and stop the Tories from taking us out without a deal and without the consent of Parliament.

It was fitting that Keir’s address to Congress coincided with the decision by Scotland’s highest civil court, the court of session, that Boris Johnson’s dodgy proroguing of Parliament is unlawful. This Prime Minister and his establishment clique don’t think the law applies to them, as they preside over attacks on our rights as working people.

We need Parliament to be recalled to stop no-deal Brexit once and for all – but as long as this unlawful closure continues, we have to keep up the pressure on the Tories. They’re playing every trick in the book and even plan to break the law if it means getting the result they want. We cannot let them succeed.

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UNISON launches guide to protect gig economy workers

Porters, care workers, security staff and parking wardens are at greater risk of physical and verbal attack, injury or illness, because they work alone for long periods, says UNISON today (Tuesday) as it launches the first union gig economy safety guide.

The union warns that staff cuts, the growth of zero-hours contracts and an increase in the number of home care workers has led to the creation of a vulnerable and isolated workforce.

Government regulations haven’t kept pace with the changing workplace, leaving staff unprotected, says the guide.

UNISON’s guidance is the first union health and safety document designed to tackle the dangers faced by lone workers in the gig economy.

It encourages employers to minimise lone working where possible and suggests how good health and safety management may reduce risks if staff have to work alone.

Guidance includes:

• Identifying the times lone workers are most at risk so support and help can be targeted
• Providing workers with contact names for use outside normal working hours
• Sharing schedules so other people know where staff will be, with expected arrival and departure time
• Creating procedures for reporting in and raising the alarm when workers fail to do so or can’t be contacted.

UNISON acting head of health and safety Robert Baughan said: “Working alone is inherently more hazardous than working with the support of colleagues. Public sector workers often visit people in their homes, which brings a unique set of risks.

“Lone workers get less support from colleagues and it’s more difficult for them to get help if something goes wrong. As the number of lone workers increases, employers must put safety above profit and put measures in place to protect workers.”

Notes to editors:
– Examples of lone public service employees include maintenance workers, porters, security staff, parking wardens, rent collectors, community and residential nurses, care workers, ambulance staff, homecare workers, librarians, receptionists and career advisors.
– UNISON has produced two health and safety guides on lone working – one for safety representatives and one for UNISON members. For copies, email press@unison.co.uk.

Media contact:
Garfield Myrie T: 0207 121 5546 M: 07432 741565 E: g.myrie@unison.co.uk
Anthony Barnes T: 0207 121 5255 M: 07834 864794 E: a.barnes@unison.co.uk

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Labour’s proposed reforms “promise a sea change in the workplace”

Commenting on Jeremy Corbyn’s speech today (Tuesday) to the delegates gathered at the 151st Trades Union Congress in Brighton,UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis said:

“These reforms promise a sea change in the workplace, one that’s long overdue.

“It’s become far too easy for unscrupulous bosses to treat their staff unfairly, safe in the knowledge their bad behaviour will never be challenged in the courts.

“Despite UNISON’s historic victory against the government’s extortionate tribunal fees, the balance has swung firmly in favour of employers. But today Labour has set out to change all that.

“As soon as we can be sure the threat of no deal has been banished, there must be an election so the UK has a government that puts working people first.”

Notes to editors:
– 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 both the public and private sectors.

Media contacts:
Liz Chinchen M: 07778 158175 E: l.chinchen@unison.co.uk
Anthony Barnes M: 07834 864794 E: a.barnes@unison.co.uk

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Blog: Privatisation demeans, damages and destroys – lets bring services back in house where they belong

For decades, our union has stood firm against privatisation in all its forms. Throughout the 80s and 90s when successive governments have sought to hive off our public services to the rich and powerful, we have always fought to keep those services in public control – because we know, and the evidence shows, that public services by the people for the people are the best services. When the greedy take control, whether in care, our NHS or elsewhere, it’s our people who suffer.

Successive privatisation disasters have only sought to strengthen our case.

So I was proud to lead the debate against privatisation at the TUC Congress today and call on our whole movement to make scrapping privatisation once and for all our top priority. Last year the Labour Party unanimously joined our call to bring services back in house where they belong in the first year of the next Labour government. Not just some of them, all of them. Not waiting until the current contracts end, but taking action as a day one commitment. Every single privatised service must return in-house – no ifs and no buts.

Today, the whole trade union movement has echoed that call.

At a time when the NHS is at risk of being parcelled off to American corporations as part of a grubby trade deal with Donald Trump, the need to act is more urgent than ever. Public funds are already being siphoned off into the pockets of the powerful and the dodgy world of off-shore companies in the most outrageous way – and a No Deal Brexit risks a terrifying acceleration of that process.

Privatisation demeans, damages and destroys. Privatisation was never a necessity, nor will it ever be. The toxic mix of privatisation and austerity was a political choice, but there is an alternative to this wanton profiteering. That alternative is public services in public hands – and our union won’t stop until all public services are back where they belong.

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Billions needed to address jaw-dropping council funding cuts

Commenting on the Councils In Crisis report from the TUC and the New Economics Foundation saying councils will face a £25 billion funding gap by 2025 published today (Sunday), UNISON head of local government Jon Richards said:

“Councils are at breaking point. This report lays bare the jaw-dropping scale of austerity cuts inflicted on councils in the past decade.

“The funding announced in the Chancellor’s spending review goes nowhere near to solving this. Social care needs billions and many councils are scarcely able to maintain even the minimum level of services the law requires.

“Local authorities need certainty so they can plan for the future but Boris Johnson’s unstable regime and its short-term promises is making this impossible. The government must also fund staff fairly by meeting their latest pay claim in full.”

Notes to editors:
– The TUC and New Economics Foundation’s Councils In Crisis report can be accessed here.
– 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 both the public and private sectors.

Media contacts:
Anthony Barnes M: 07834 864794 E: a.barnes@unison.co.uk
Liz Chinchen M: 07778 158175 E: l.chinchen@unison.co.uk

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Strike ballot for higher education staff over pay and pensions

Two separate ballots on strike action involving 30,000 university support staff have been launched on higher education pay and pension scheme changes, says UNISON today (Monday).

The votes open today, after more than two thirds of staff rejected offers on pay and pensions during the summer.

The pay deal from university employers would mean a below-inflation rise of just 1.8% for most staff, according to UNISON.

Many university employees would also pay more under recent changes being proposed to their pension scheme, says the union.

Pension reforms are to blame, adds UNISON, for rising contributions. First introduced in 2011, they were already likely to leave staff tens of thousands out of pocket. These new proposals mean staff have to pay in more and more just to retain their already reduced benefits.

UNISON head of education Jon Richards said: “Yet again university employers are fobbing off higher education staff with a below-inflation wage increase and a cut to pensions.

“Vice chancellors’ and other senior managers’ pay packets continue to swell. But they won’t stump up for all the other staff who make universities world class, despite being pushed hard for a decent pay rise.

“Their mediocre offer will do nothing to help staff, especially the lowest paid who are struggling to get by on poverty wages.”

​Notes to editors:
– The pay claim from unions including UNISON included an amount to meet inflation plus 3% or a minimum increase of £3,349 to catch up for a decade of below inflation rises.
– Both ballots open today (Monday) and close on Wednesday 30 October 2019.
– 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 both the public and private sectors.

Media contacts:
Garfield Myrie T: 0207 121 5546 M: 07432741565 E: g.myrie@unison.co.uk
Anthony Barnes M: 07834 864794 E: a.barnes@unison.co.uk

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End privatisation disgrace to protect public services

Opening the debate on privatisation at the TUC in Brighton this afternoon (Monday), UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis said:

“Privatisation failed in the 80s, again in the 90s and it’s still failing today. The profits are made by big money firms, yet the costs are borne by the workforce, future generations and people in desperate need of the services provided.

“Now there’s the threat of Boris Johnson selling off our NHS to the highest bidder and all for a grubby trade deal with Donald Trump.

“Scrapping privatisation is our number one priority. Privatised care services are collapsing and public sector jobs are being hived off to those who care more about private profit than public good.

“These rich and powerful companies and contractors are immune to the damage privatisation causes. But those who rely on public services aren’t. Nor are our people – the predominantly low-paid staff who keep these services going despite real challenges.

“Public funds are being siphoned off into the pockets of the powerful and the dodgy world of off-shore companies in the most outrageous way.

“This is an outrage that must end. At this critical time, as the country moves towards an election, we must all – every one of us – step up the fight to bring all privatised services back in-house.

“Not just some of them, all of them. There’s also no need to delay until the current contracts end. Every single privatised service must return in-house where it belongs.

“To the doubters who say this can’t be done as it will cost too much there’s a very simple answer. The money to buy out the contracts can be found by taxing the rich.

“That means no more tax loopholes and no more handouts to the wealthy. It means closing tax havens, and making every company and bank pay its fair contribution to society.

“It means no more wasting billions replacing weapons of mass destruction, instead starting to rebuild those local communities that’ve been left behind.

“The UK is one of the richest countries in the world yet there’s thousands sleeping rough and six million children in grinding poverty.

“It’s an absolute disgrace, but that’s what austerity and privatisation means. Privatisation demeans, damages and destroys.

“Privatisation was never a necessity, nor will it ever be. The toxic mix of privatisation and austerity was a political choice, but there is an alternative to this wanton profiteering.

“That alternative is public services – provided for the people by the people. Based on need not greed.

“Last year the Labour Party voted to end all privatisation and bring all services back in house in its first year in office.

“But first we have to get Labour into power. For too long, our people have been failed. But not any longer.

“Now is the time to take back control of our economy, our jobs and our public services. Now is the time to stand together united, putting division behind us.

“We need to get out there campaigning and talking to others, knocking on doors not locked in committee rooms, trigger-voting Labour MPs. That’s a road to nowhere, at a time when we need the road to power.

“But we can only get there, if Labour stays united and is a broad church with broad appeal. Divided parties never win elections, and people need the Labour Party in power like never before.

“The future we need is within our grasp. We can sweep away this wretched government and bring our public services back in house and put Labour back in power.”

Notes to editors:
– Dave Prentis was moving the privatisation composite motion at the 151st Congress in Brighton. Congress opened yesterday and closes on Wednesday.
– 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 both the public and private sectors.

Media contacts:
Liz Chinchen M: 07778 158175 E: l.chinchen@unison.co.uk
Anthony Barnes M: 07834 864794 E: a.barnes@unison.co.uk

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New term, new uniforms – thanks to UNISON

School uniform should be the least of a parent’s worries. That’s why UNISON’s very own charity, There for You, gives school uniform grants to members who need a helping hand in getting their kids kitted out for the new term.

In 2019, There for You gave out £34,500 worth of school uniform grants to members, meaning over 700 kids went back to school last week in fresh uniforms.

UNISON member Stephanie* wrote: “Thank you for supporting me with their uniform costs and enabling me to send them off looking so smart. I’m a very, very proud single mum today.”

Here are some of the first-day-of-term shots that members have sent in.

 

Head of There for you Julie Grant said: “UNISON’s programme has become vitally important for members on low incomes, and can make all the difference to a child returning to school properly equipped for the year ahead.”

Through the school uniform grant, UNISON members earning £18,000 or less can receive £40 per school-age child, for up to three children.

“As school holidays come to an end, we know that many parents find themselves worrying about how they’re going to kit their children out for the new term,” said Julie. “And then there’s the added cost of shoes and paying for items such as books, stationery, extra- curricular lessons etc.”

“Unfortunately, many local authorities no longer offer financial support for uniform costs, and families need as much help as they can get.

“Not every family is a member of a union, so if you’re a parent and your child has outgrown their uniform, we would encourage you to take our ‘pass it on’ pledge”.

The pass it on pledge is a commitment to make the most of your child’s old school uniform. Members with school-age children are encouraged to support both the environment and families in your area.

Pledge to pass it on

• As a parent, I pledge to…
  • Keep hold of uniform that my child has outgrown, but is still wearable
  • See if my child’s school operates a recycling uniform scheme
  • If their school doesn’t already have this set up, I will encourage them to do this
• Name*

*Name has been changed to protect identity.

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Blog: We can’t let No Deal Brexit wreck our NHS

Parliament has spoken out loudly and clearly against a disastrous No Deal Brexit, yet Boris Johnson and his government still appear determined to crash the UK out of the EU without a deal.

For UNISON, that’s a completely unacceptable risk – for public services, our economy and our whole country.

That’s why at the TUC Congress I was proud to stand with UNISON members from the NHS and oppose No Deal. Our position is clear – no deal would wreck our NHS and all public services. In the health service, already under pressure NHS risks being pushed over the cliff edge by a reckless and disorderly exit from the EU.

No responsible politician working for the good of the country would allow the NHS to plunge into the no-deal abyss. The Prime Minister must ditch his do-or-die bluster, respect the law by asking the EU for an extension and then let the country decide its future in a general election.

The chaos and uncertainty a no-deal Brexit would bring could push an already under-pressure NHS over the edge – and patients will be the biggest losers. No deal risks severe shortages of drugs and vital medical equipment, with the potential for cancelled operations and appointments. And Brexit hasn’t just stopped potential EU recruits coming here to join the NHS, it’s also convinced those already working here that they’re better off elsewhere.

On staffing, on medicine and even on food, the NHS risks being pushed off the cliff edge – we can’t let Boris Johnson’s No Deal wreck our nation’s greatest institution.

The article Blog: We can’t let No Deal Brexit wreck our NHS first appeared on the UNISON National site.

from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8239598 https://www.unison.org.uk/news/2019/09/blog-cant-let-no-deal-brexit-wreck-nhs/
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A no-deal Brexit would bring chaos to the NHS, warns UNISON

The uncertainty and chaos of a no-deal Brexit could push an already under pressure NHS over the edge with patients the biggest losers, says UNISON today (Sunday).

Speaking ahead of the opening of the 151st Trades Union Congress in Brighton, UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis said:

“No responsible politician working for the good of the country would allow the NHS to plunge into the no-deal abyss. The Prime Minister must ditch his do-or-die bluster, respect the law by asking the EU for an extension and then let the country decide its future in a general election.

“The chaos and uncertainty a no-deal Brexit would bring could push an already under-pressure NHS over the edge. And patients will be the biggest losers.”

Dave Prentis was speaking as UNISON staged a stunt with health workers on Brighton seafront to highlight the risks to the NHS of a no-deal Brexit.

“Although the bill to prevent no deal passed another hurdle in the Lords last week, we’re not out of the woods. The threat remains when we’re up against a Prime Minister eager to break every convention, rule and promise in the book.

“A no deal risks severe shortages of drugs and vital medical equipment, with the potential for cancelled operations and appointments. Increased waiting times will further stretch public confidence in the NHS.

“Brexit hasn’t just stopped potential EU recruits coming here to join the NHS, it’s also convinced those already working here that they’re better off elsewhere.

“No deal risks wrecking the fragile social care sector that’s reliant on EU nationals. If care collapses, A&E departments will be inundated and elderly patients won’t be able to leave hospital as they’ve nowhere to go.

“If freedom of movement ends, the staffing headache suffered by NHS trusts countrywide becomes a full-blown migraine attack. Many thousands of EU nationals have yet to apply for settled status and it’s anyone’s guess what that means for their jobs.

“The catalogue of logistical nightmares goes on. The NHS serves more than 140 million meals to patients every year, with much of the food imported from Europe.

“Possible fuel shortages could have a severe impact on 6,500 emergency ambulances and their crews operating countrywide, especially those in areas with lorries queuing out of the ports.

“But the real tragedy is that the millions spent on no-deal Brexit preparations could have been invested in rebuilding communities. Instead, real issues affecting people’s lives are being ignored – to the nation’s eternal shame.”

Notes to editors:
– Earlier today a group of NHS workers took part in a UNISON stunt on Brighton seafront to highlight the dangers posed by a no-deal Brexit. They were pulling on a rope lashed around a two metre-high On-the-Brink Hospital teetering precariously over the edge of the railings on Brighton seafront. A message across the front of the hospital read No Deal Wrecks It. Pictures are available on request.
– UNISON was a signatory to a statement (issued on 29 August) from the TUC and health unions on the threat posed to the NHS by a no-deal Brexit.
– Dave Prentis will be leading the debate on privatisation at the TUC on Monday afternoon. The Brexit debate at Congress takes place this afternoon and was the theme of the TUC’s press conference earlier.
– 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 both the public and private sectors.

Media contacts:
Liz Chinchen M: 07778 158175 E: l.chinchen@unison.co.uk
Anthony Barnes M: 07834 864794 E: a.barnes@unison.co.uk

The article A no-deal Brexit would bring chaos to the NHS, warns UNISON first appeared on the UNISON National site.

from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8239598 https://www.unison.org.uk/news/press-release/2019/09/no-deal-brexit-bring-chaos-nhs-warns-unison/
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