Mariam Kamish, Caerphilly Trades Council Secretary (personal capacity)
The Cwm Taf Health Visitors have been on strike since 23 February, demanding Grade 7 grading, in line with their qualifications, responsibilities and experience. It’s a scandal that first Welsh Labour and now the new Plaid Cymru government in the Senedd hasn’t sorted this out. Scottish Health Visitors won their Grade 7, ten years ago!
The Cwm Taf Health Visitors are the first NHS workers in Wales to ever take continuous strike action.
Times are tough for them, so the four Valleys trades councils – Caerphilly, Merthyr, Torfaen and Rhondda Cynon Taff – wanted to put on a benefit gig that would give them a relaxing, family-friendly afternoon, while shining a spotlight on their struggle and raising some cash.
Unite the Union led a march through Pontypridd town centre to the venue and laid on a buffet. Local music artists performed, while the children took part in crafts and fun activities. Socialist Party member Alyson Williams made a cake decorated with calls to solidarity and sugar icing infants!
The Unite general branch presented the strike fund with £1,000, Caerphilly Trades Council £250 and Merthyr, Torfaen and Rhondda Cynon Taff TUCs – £100 each.
Dave Reid, speaking for Cardiff Trades Council, said: “You are the NHS, not the executives… And we think the whole of the trade union movement has to rally behind you. Because you are the spearhead for everyone else. We value your fight today. The way you’ve stuck together is an example to us all… You’re going to win. It’s going to take a bit more, but you’re going to win at the end of it”.
