Union’s president describes how a decade of austerity damaged the UK’s ability to protect workers during the COVID-19 pandemic
PPE
At UNISON, the paradox that our members are saving lives using products made by workers whose rights are violated is very uncomfortable
Lessons must be learned about how workers were left defenceless
UNISON is supporting a Sri Lankan trade union fighting to represent beleaguered rubber glove factory workers
Care workers were forced make their own safety kit, buy it themselves or go without
UNISON knows that some staff groups may have less employee voice within an organisation. This means they may not feel able to raise concerns with their employer about Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
Ministers reacted too slowly when buying protective kit
Political pressure to approve substandard PPE does not bode well for HSE independence once the UK finally leaves the safety of the EU, says the union
UK PPE production will guarantee supplies and cut shipping
UNISON reports Horizon Care to the Care Quality Commission after residents die in Sheffield
UNISON and other health unions say NHS must continue to operate a safety-first approach
Risk of infection must be reduced for care workers
Government is making people bewildered, not reassured
Ministers need to work with unions to create safe schools