Bin workers in Solihull to vote on strike action over pay dispute

Bin workers in Solihull are set to vote on whether to take strike action over a pay dispute.

A potential strike could affect more than 86,000 homes in the borough as the GMB trade union began balloting its members today (7 February).

The workforce is employed by Amey Services Limited, a private firm contracted by Solihull Council.

More than 100 refuse workers are expected to take part in the ballot which ends on 4 March.

Amey said it aligned its salaries with the Real Living Wage in 2021 and increased pay for employees working on the Solihull contract.

If the strike goes ahead, refuse and recycling services for Solihull Council – including Bickenhill waste tip and recycling centre, local cemeteries, street cleansing, parks and more than 86,000 households could be affected.

Dave warwick, GMB organiser, said: “Refuse collectors in Solihull do not want to go on strike, but Amey has backed them into a corner by refusing to negotiate.

“Inflation is rampant, we’re in the midst of a cost-of-living crisis and these workers are massively in demand.

“These refuse collectors have worked right through the pandemic – all they want is pay rise to keep them in line with the industry average.

“It’s up the Amey – they can stop industrial action in its tracks by getting round the table and avoiding disruption for the people of Solihull.”

What has Amey said about the ballot?

An Amey spokeswoman, said: “We are immensely proud of our frontline employees who have continued to deliver essential services throughout the pandemic, including our waste teams in Solihull.

“During the pandemic we ensured that all employees who had to shield, due to Covid, maintained full pay throughout the time they needed, providing financial security during that difficult period.

“In 2021 we also aligned our salaries with the Real Living Wage and increased pay for employees working on our Solihull contract and in recognition of the national driver shortage implemented one out of cycle pay increase for our drivers.

“In addition, in the last 12 months we have also enhanced employee benefits, including paid leave and offering enhanced life assurance, which has benefited many employees in Solihull.

“We are disappointed that current discussions with GMB have resulted in the decision to ballot strike action with GMB members, given that they were made aware of our intentions last month to implement the Real Living Wage from 1^st April 2022.

“However, we respect the ballot process and are committed to working collaboratively with the GMB to reach a resolution as we continue to support our employees and minimise disruption to the local community.”

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