Leeds transport worker strikes called off after deal reached
Around 80 workers from Leeds Council Passenger Transport had previously walked out in a dispute over safety and funding
Strikes by workers in Leeds, who help people with disabilities or special educational needs get around, have been called off.
Around 80 workers from Leeds Council Passenger Transport had previously walked out over claims funding cuts had led to injuries, with staffing shortages also leading to alleged disruption in the service.
Unite has now agreed to a deal with the council which includes hiring more staff, a shakeup to management and more risk assessments.
Passenger assistance staff will also receive mobile phones as another way to boost safety.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: "Our members at Leeds Passenger Transport should be commended for taking action to improve their conditions and protect themselves and passengers.
"This is an excellent win for our members, which shows the power of a union. Unite will always fight for better working conditions for our members and ensure they are safe at work."
Unite regional officer Chris Muscroft said: "Strike action was a last resort for our members, who care deeply about the passengers they look after, but they had to take a stand to improve the safety of the service.
"Unite is pleased with the outcome, which will ensure the service is vastly improved both for workers and passengers. However, the situation at Leeds council has demonstrated that national government needs to properly fund and support local authority services such as Leeds Passenger Transport."