The UVW union has described the victory as “big”
Cleaners at Latchmere Leisure Centre in Battersea have as we speak secured a 16 per cent pay rise. The inflation-busting rise will kick in from 1 October.
The pay settlement follows a marketing campaign from the cleaners and their union, United Voices of the World (UVW). The marketing campaign noticed the cleaners – all of whom are Bolivian migrants – combat for union recognition and dignity at work.
In June, the cleaners secured a statutory commerce union recognition settlement and the correct to collective bargaining on the leisure centre. The power is outsourced by Battersea Council and managed by Locations for Individuals Leisure Administration.
Juan, one of many cleaners and a UVW member, mentioned, “A correct dwelling wage is a proper for all, whether or not you’re a migrant employee or not. For those who don’t have a dwelling wage it’s your obligation to combat for it. The bosses will attempt to deny you your rights and attempt to deliver you down, however it’s important to maintain going. Unity is power and something may be achieved if we’re united as staff”.
Marco, one other cleaner known as for different staff to affix UVW – saying, “UVW works for and fights for staff’ rights and I’ve felt their full help. The combat continues nonetheless and I name on all staff; if in case you have any points along with your employers or any points at work, be a part of UVW so collectively we will combat for change.”
The cleaners’ victory was celebrated by Petros Elia, common secretary for UVW. Describing the victory as “big”, Elia mentioned, “This win is large. These courageous cleaners have compelled PPLM who’ve been paid £22m over the lifetime of the outsourcing contract to redistribute their wealth with all leisure centre staff up and down the nation. That is one more instance of low paid migrant staff main the best way of their combat again in opposition to poverty pay.It’s critical that we share the story of those inspiring staff, the cleaners at Latchmere Leisure. If they’ll do it, then so are you able to. UVW is right here for you.”
Chris Jarvis is head of technique and growth at Left Foot Ahead
Left Foot Ahead’s commerce union reporting is supported by the Barry Amiel & Norman Melburn Belief
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