A group of 90 workers at Bristol Waste are being balloted for strike action from this week, following a below-inflation pay offer, says UNISON today (Thursday).
Recycling workers and drivers have been offered a 7% pay rise or £2,000 – whichever is greater – from November 2022 to March 2024. This is considerably below the 10% pay increase claimed by UNISON.
Bristol Waste runs local recycling in Bristol, waste collection and street cleansing. They also run recycling centres in the city.
A consultation undertaken by the union saw 95% of workers reject the pay offer from Bristol Waste indicating that they would be willing to strike to secure an improved pay offer as bills, food and housing costs continue to rise.
The industrial action ballot opened on Tuesday and closes on Tuesday 18 July.
UNISON South West regional organiser John Drake said: “It’s disappointing that it’s come to a strike ballot to persuade the employer to make a realistic offer.
“The cost-of-living crisis has not dissipated. Inflation is getting no better, food prices are soaring, and energy bills remain high. The need for fair pay becomes ever more pressing.
“Striking is always a last resort, but workers deserve to be paid wages that reflect their essential roles and they’re determined to achieve that.”
