New strike dates announced at St Monica Trust

Two 48 hours strikes to take place at care homes in Bristol and North Somerset.

Care workers, registered nurses and residential home staff employed by St Monica Trust will take further strike action next week.

The Russets and Sherwood care home staff will walk out for 48 hours from 7am on Tuesday 16 August, while care staff at Garden House, Cote Lane will do the same on Friday 19 August.

The new dates follow five days of action in June and July over cuts to pay.

Weekend rates will be cut for senior care workers by 21% under the plans, while other staff are being asked to take a 10% hit to their salaries, UNISON says.

The union says striking staff also face cuts to sick pay and reductions in working hours after bosses imposed unpaid breaks during shifts.

UNISON regional secretary Joanne Kaye said: “St Monica Trust has been asked repeatedly by us to meet for talks but the charity simply refuses. It’s like trying to talk to a brick wall.

“Many care staff on the picket line in July told me they were unsure how they’d cope with the cost-of-living crisis. Care workers need pay rises not pay cuts.

“St Monica Trust needs to listen to its staff and to UNISON. The Trust must ensure care staff are paid fairly for looking after the most vulnerable people in society.”

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