Steve Score, Leicester Socialist Party
Once again it was an extremely loud and lively picket line outside the Leicester Royal Infirmary as health care assistants (HCAs) took their 18th day of strike action in three months to get back pay they are owed.
There was constant chanting and mini speeches on the megaphone, and a cacophony of car, bus and lorry horns in support. A couple of RCN nurses’ representatives also supported the picket line.
Six years’ back pay
The Unison members have won regrading due to the extra clinical tasks they have carried out for many years, but the health trust refuses to give them the six years back pay they are demanding.
Recent strikes have been coordinated with action taken by HCAs in Northamptonshire hospitals. This is especially appropriate since the Chief Executive of University Hospitals Leicester trust is also Chief Executive of the Northamptonshire Trust.
There was discussion on the picket line about whether there were more chances of workers winning concessions under the new Labour government. Whatever Starmer’s intentions, the change in government can still raise hopes and confidence.
The anger of members in Leicester was reflected in their support for escalating the action. Following a mass meeting, they voted for a 26-day continuous strike from 5-31 August.
