This week saw warm weather and high spirits as Serco employees at Great Western Hospital in Swindon went on strike, demanding fair pay.
The mood was positive, with car horns beeping in support while workers shared homemade cakes and snacks.
Caterers, housekeepers, security guards, and porters, all crucial to the hospital’s daily running, stood together in frustration over Serco’s refusal to match the one-off payments given to NHS staff under the Agenda for Change pay award.
Despite Serco making £249m in profits in 2023, the company has denied its workers the bonuses of at least £1,655 received by NHS staff in 2023.
Workers on the picket line voiced their frustration, holding signs and talking about how important their roles are and how Serco’s actions have made them feel undervalued.
The two-day strike, from Monday to Wednesday, was a mix of determination and hope. Many believe their efforts will lead to the same success seen at other hospitals, where similar strikes won better pay.
UNISON is urging Serco to settle the dispute soon, but for now, the workers’ fight for fair pay goes on — as strong as the support felt on the picket line.
