A STRIKE by Unison classroom assistants closed 28 schools across West Dunbartonshire Council (WDC) today as part of a long-running grading dispute.

The overwhelmingly female workforce, who provide personal care to children with disabilities, behavioural challenges and complex medical needs, have long argued their expertise goes unrecognised in their pay.

As the one-day action closed all but four of the councils’ schools, dozens of strikers rallied outside WDC’s Dunbarton headquarters to hammer the point home to elected members.

Unison branch secretary Freya Smith told the rally: “This action is about respect.

“Respect for the skills required, respect for the responsibilities carried, and respect for the value of the work done every single day in our schools.

“Our message remains clear: invest in education, value, support staff and recognise learning assistance properly.

“We remain united. When workers stand together, change becomes possible.”

A spokesperson for WDC said: “We value the vital work learning assistants undertake within our classrooms and are disappointed they are taking industrial action.

“We remain committed to minimising disruption where possible and are continuing to liaise with our union colleagues.”