Victory for Sodexo workers at North Devon NHS Trust

devon | corporations | news report Monday January 18, 2010 11:54 by fw

Following two days of strike action, 200 UNISON members working for Sodexo in North Devon NHS Trust, have won their bid for better pay and improved terms, in line with a national agreement* set out in October 2006.

The deal will cover staff working as cleaners, cooks and porters, some of the lowest paid staff working for contractors in the public sector. They will receive a lump sum of up to £3,600, as well as a salary increase from 1 January, 2010, and other benefits including sick pay.

Dave Prentis will be joining the Sodexo workers at a rally (tomorrow) Saturday 16 January, from 12.30-1.30pm in Barnstaple Town Square .

Dave Prentis, UNISON General Secretary, said:

"I am proud of our members for making a stand. It is never easy going on strike, particularly if you are low paid. But this action has shown what can be achieved when members stay solid and determined.

"These were low paid cooks, cleaners and porters, who have been waiting for three years to get the pay and terms they are entitled to under a national agreement.

"This is a victory for the workers, and for common sense."