Sandwell bin strikes suspended after one month of action

Strike action has been postponed in Sandwell by refuse workers after a pay deal has been accepted.

GMB Union members have voted in principle to accept 8.5% pay uplift and plans to enforce bank holiday working scrapped. 

This comes after four weeks of strike action which has impacted around 125,000 Sandwell households.
 
The union says it’s seeking clarification on certain points of the deal, but strike action planned for Monday 3 July has been suspended.
  
Justine Jones, GMB Organiser, said: “In the midst of worst cost of living crisis in a generation, it’s shameful that it’s taken Serco so long to reach this stage.
  
“This is a company that has enjoyed profits in the region of £240,000,000 telling Sandwell workers to stomach attacks on their pay and family time. 
  
“Strike action is always a last resort, but GMB members have stood strong and delivered this win. 
  
“The support from local people here in Sandwell during the strike has been overwhelming and GMB members are grateful for their support and would like to pass on our thanks to them”.

Both Sandwell Council and Serco have been contacted for comment.