More than 80 care staff at MioCare are set to walk out on strike for 24 hours on Monday, September 21, in a move that threatens to disrupt essential services across Oldham.
The employees, who work within the company’s “extra care” department, provide 24-hour personalised support to vulnerable residents living in assisted housing complexes. The planned industrial action comes following a breakdown in negotiations over pay parity and employment benefits.
Members of the trade union Unison, who represent the striking staff, have criticised the current pay structure, claiming that extra care workers are earning £2.10 an hour less than their counterparts in other departments of the council-owned firm, despite performing similar duties.
In addition to their demand for equal pay, the employees are calling for the implementation of a comprehensive sick pay scheme. The union argues that the current lack of support leaves workers in a precarious position should they fall ill or suffer an injury while performing their duties.
Highlighting the urgent need for a policy change, Unison shared the account of one employee who reportedly received only £45 in a single month after being forced to take time off due to an injury sustained directly on the job.
James Bull, a regional organiser for Unison North West, underscored the importance of the staff’s role in the community. “These staff do essential work supporting vulnerable people across Oldham. They deserve fair pay and respect,” Bull said.
“It can’t be right that staff doing similar work at the same council-owned firm are on different rates of basic pay, and sick pay is provided for some but not others,” he added. “Oldham Council and MioCare have spoken about the importance of fair pay. Now workers need to see those words turned into action.”
The upcoming strike is expected to impact the delivery of care within assisted living settings, as employees take a firm stand to close the pay gap. As the September 21 deadline approaches, pressure is mounting on MioCare management to address the grievances of their workforce.
MioCare has been approached for comment regarding the industrial action and the specific demands raised by Unison members. Whether an agreement can be reached before Monday morning to avert the walkout remains to be seen.
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