NHS supply chain drivers in Kent to consider strike action
Unite want improved wages for GXO drivers amid potential NHS disruption
Nearly 200 lorry drivers, responsible for delivering NHS supplies across Kent, Derbyshire, Somerset, West Yorkshire, Warwickshire, Suffolk, and Newcastle are being balloted for strike action over pay discrepancies.
The workers drive HGV and other vehicles delivering NHS general equipment and supplies to hospitals across the country.
They have rejected a four per cent pay rise offer from GXO, which runs the NHS supply chain contract for Supply Chain Coordination Limited (SCCL).
GXO claims SCCL has said the pay offer cannot be increased as it is more than was offered to NHS workers. However, GXO workers say that they have inferior terms and conditions compared to NHS contracts, including a much lower pension.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham, said they will be backing the workers through any potential strike action.
Graham elabourated:
“GXO and SCCL’s offer was met with a near unanimous rejection by workers. It must be improved. Unite is backing these workers all the way in their fight for a deal that reflects their hard work and dedication.”
Regional officer Phil Silkstone indicated that GXO and SCCL might inadvertently prompt industrial action, calling for a more acceptable offer to prevent strikes and potential disruption to NHS supply chains.
Unite regional officer Phil Silkstone said:
“GXO and SCCL are forcing these workers towards industrial action. They will bear responsibility for any disruption caused to NHS supplies. Strike action can be avoided, but that will require an acceptable offer being put forward.”
The ballot for industrial action closes on 17 September, with potential strikes causing disruption to NHS supply chains.