Sandwell bin strikes: here’s when industrial action is taking place in May and June

Union members will embark on strike action across May and June, which is expected to hit as many as 125,000 households in Sandwell.

Industrial action in May will take place on Tuesday 30 and Wednesday 31 of the month.

In June, strikes will be held on Thursday 1, Monday 5, Tuesday 6, Wednesday 7, Thursday 8, Monday 12, Tuesday 13, Wednesday 14, Thursday 15 and Friday 16.

Last year, Sandwell council told Serco, the company behind bin collections in the borough, to shape up or lose its contract. A draft report presented by councillors in February 2022 found Serco’s contract with the council to be “deeply unsatisfactory” and stated “urgent action” was needed to improve bin collections.

Serco holds a 25 year contract for waste and recycling services in Sandwell. The contract, established in November 2010, is estimated

to be worth £650 million, and will end by 2035. But the Hampshire-based company has found itself in trouble with Sandwell council over increased complaints from residents over fly-tipping, lack of collections, and waiting delays at household recycling centres.

Serco incurred £755,000 worth of penalties issued by the council in the 2020-21 financial year. At the end of October last year the council had deducted £137,000 in penalties.

What has the union said?

Justine Jones, GMB Union organiser, said:“Serco have failed to recognise and properly value the work of refuse workers across our Borough.

“Taking strike action is always a last resort, but to impose a real terms pay cut in the midst of the worst cost of living crisis in a generation is a disgrace. Twelve days of strike action will no doubt have a significant impact on local people and businesses.

“If Serco don’t act now it could quickly become twelve days of chaos of Sandwell. Our members are clear; Serco need to get back around the table with an offer that reflects our members value before it’s too late.”

A Sandwell council spokesperson said: “The services Serco provide are extremely important for our residents. As a council we will be working hard to ensure that any disruption is kept to an absolute minimum and we urge Serco to work with its employees and the trade unions to find a resolution to the dispute.

“We hope that industrial action can be avoided but if it goes ahead we will ensure residents are kept up-to-date on the proposed strike schedule and on changes or delays to waste and recycling services via the Sandwell council website, Twitter, Facebook and the email updates service.”

Serco were approached for comment at time of publication.