Thursday, January 26, 2017

Academics back dispute by King's College cleaners


Academics back dispute by King’s College cleaners

Cleaners at King’s College London are to strike for two days this week (Thursday and Friday) in protest over cutbacks.
More than 50 academics at King’s, which is ranked among the top universities in the world, have signed a letter in protest over how the cleaners are being treated.

The strike action follows a long-running dispute with contractor Servest over its plans to reduce working hours and cut jobs. There are also concerns around ongoing staff shortages and increased workloads.

Servest informed all cleaners working at the university of the changes in November. Staff either face a reduction in the hours they work or redundancy.

UNISON London regional organiser Colin Inniss said: “Strike action is always a last resort but cleaning staff at King’s deserve so much better.

“They are all dedicated to their jobs but this contactor has not treated them with dignity and respect. It’s no wonder they feel frustrated and undervalued.

“This action is the only way to bring the employer back to the negotiating table.”

Notes for editors:
- Ninety-eight per cent of workers balloted voted in favour of industrial action.
- UNISON is keen to meet with Servest at the conciliation service ACAS to try to resolve the dispute.
- Picket lines will be set up from 5am on all of King's College main campus sites including the Strand, London WC2R 2LS.

Media contacts:
Colin Inniss E: c.inniss@unison.co.uk
Karen Westwood T: 0207 535 6608  E: k.westwood@unison.co.uk
Liz Chinchen T: 0207 121 5463  E: l.chinchen@unison.co.uk


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