Care home workers employed by Pilkington Retirement Services in St Helens have secured an improved pay deal.

Following two days of industrial action, by the workers who are member of Unite, the UK’s leading union, on 12-13 August the dispute at Ruskin Lodge has now been settled.

The workers have secured a five per cent pay increase. In addition, they will no longer be expected to administer controlled drugs to residents. Management’s plan to expect the workers to administer drugs was a key part of the dispute.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Well done to our members for fighting for better pay and conditions. By standing together in unity they have ensured better pay and won’t be required to administer drugs.

 This victory shows the power of Unite and we will continue to relentlessly improve the jobs, pay and conditions of our members.”

As a result of the improved offer, which was unanimously accepted by the workers, all further strike dates have been called off.

 

Unite regional officer Ian McCluskey said: “This is a significantly better deal than originally offered and shows that Unite is securing its members better conditions and better pay.

 “Workers should be in no doubt the best way to secure better pay and conditions is to join Unite and get their work colleagues to join too.”

ENDS

Notes to editors

For media enquiries ONLY please contact Unite senior communications advisor Barckley Sumner on 07802 329235.

Email: barckley.sumner@unitetheunion.org

Twitter: @unitetheunion Facebook: unitetheunion1 Instagram: unitetheunion Web: unitetheunion.org

Unite is the UK and Ireland’s leading union fighting to protect and advance jobs, pay and conditions for members working across all sectors of the economy. The general secretary is Sharon Graham.