Seven care homes set to be hit by strikes
Staff at seven Doncaster care homes run by Runwood Homes are preparing for industrial action over pay.
Union GMB has moved to an industrial action ballot across the seven homes, as it says low-paid care workers face a further 24% pay cut.
It said it had “no other option” but to move to industrial action ballot after talks failed with care providers, Runwood Homes.
Runwood Homes announced a proposal in April 2017 to all staff who transferred over from Doncaster Metropolitan Borough Council which would see pay, terms and conditions cut to almost the statutory minimum, GMB said.
DMBC made the decision to sell off their last remaining council-run homes to Runwood Homes two years ago as a cost-cutting exercise.
The seven homes affected are Gattison House, Rossington; Owston View, Carcroft; Oldfield House, Stainforth; Rose House, Armthorpe; Plantation View, Cantley; Stenson Court, Balby and Rowena House, Conisbrough.
Deanne Ferguson, GMB Regional Organiser, said: “The proposed changes to our members pay, terms and conditions are some of the most brutal attacks I have ever seen on already low paid workers across Doncaster.
“Members face losing between £300 and 400 per month pay, with the most affected losing £900 per month once a 24% reduction in pay is implemented.
“Along with my other union colleagues, I have been working hard to offer sound alternatives as a counter proposal to Runwood Homes but sadly Runwood have refused to respond leaving us with no option but to move to an industrial action ballot.
“This decision has not been taken lightly, my members who are mainly women working within the care sector would never have considered taking industrial action, however they simply cannot afford to live decently if these cuts are implemented.
“This is a very difficult and delicate situation, one which I am working with my members to ensure we have the full support of the residents’ families and communities where these homes reside. I have also written out to all MPs, Labour councillors, and Ros Jones as Mayor calling for their urgent support.
“We hope Runwood Homes will reconsider their proposal to protect almost 300 employees across Doncaster from suffering at such a large detriment.”
Runwood have been contacted for comment.
