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Solidarity can shape our future
The courage of striking Unison members across south-west England shows workers are ready to fight for their rights – and win, says Unison South West regional secretary KERRY BAIGENT
Striking phlebotomists in Gloucestershire
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AS WE gather for Tolpuddle Martyrs’ Festival, we are reminded of the power of solidarity in shaping our future. This year, workers’ struggles will be front and centre.
On Sunday, the main stage will host speakers from the ongoing Unison campaigns, including striking phlebotomists from Gloucestershire, a representative from the Dorset SubCo fightback, and migrant healthcare workers demanding urgent reform. Their stories reflect the courage and determination of workers standing up against injustice.
In Gloucestershire, phlebotomists are now more than 110 days into strike action, standing firm against a belligerent employer that refuses to pay them what they are worth. The “Magnificent 37” have shown extraordinary strength and unity. Their action follows in the footsteps of healthcare assistants at Derriford Hospital, who last year won a long overdue rebanding to Band 3 after taking similar action. These victories are proof that when we organise and take action together, we can win.
Meanwhile, in Dorset, Unison members are resisting plans that would see 1,700 NHS staff outsourced into a wholly owned subsidiary company. This move threatens to drive down terms and conditions and risks undermining public service standards. The proposal flies in the face of Labour’s pledge to lead the biggest wave of insourcing in a generation. What’s at stake is not just one workforce, but the wider principle of protecting public-service jobs from creeping privatisation.
Unison is also campaigning to transform the rights of migrant workers. We are fighting for the introduction of a Certificate of Common Sponsorship to give migrant healthcare workers the freedom to change employers without risking their visa status. At the same time, we are opposing the government’s immigration white paper, which would double the qualifying period for indefinite leave to remain. This would lock thousands of workers into years of insecurity and exploitation.
As we reflect on the legacy of the Tolpuddle Martyrs, we draw strength from their defiance and commitment to justice. Their fight is our fight, one for fair pay, secure work, and a future where every worker is treated with dignity.
Let us stand together in solidarity. Because together, we can ensure that every voice is heard, every worker respected, and no struggle ignored.
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