SCHOOL learning assistants at West Dunbartonshire Council (WDC) have overwhelmingly backed strike action in a long-running grading dispute.

Providing personal care to children with disabilities, behavioural challenges and complex medical needs, the predominantly female workforce argue their expertise remains unreflected in pay.

Announcing 97.5 per cent backing for strike action, Unison WDC branch chair Aly McCulloch said: “Learning assistants in West Dunbartonshire take on responsibilities far beyond their job descriptions.

“They de-escalate violent incidents, provide intimate personal care and support children with profound needs. Yet they’re only paid for basic classroom support.

“Staff don’t want to disrupt pupils, but they’ve had enough of being undervalued.”

A WDC spokesperson said: “We value the vital work learning assistants undertake within our classrooms and are disappointed by the decision to strike.

“Like other authorities, we use the Scottish Joint Council Job Evaluation Scheme which is agreed by Unison, Unite and GMB and have an agreed local policy which includes evaluations undertaken jointly with union analysts.

“In addition, employees were offered the opportunity to provide feedback on a one-to-one basis.

“We are in dialogue with our union colleagues.”