With years of experience as a social worker, I have witnessed the continuous challenges faced by public service workers, even under the current Labour government for over 18 months. Our pay has been consistently reduced while the cost of living continues to rise. Additionally, the systematic dismantling of essential services by politicians has added to our struggles.
Throughout my career within a local authority, I have observed the direct impact of budget cuts. Local authorities have been stripped of assets, with £15 billion sold off since 2010. For instance, in Bolton, funding for the council has been slashed by more than 25% since the same year, negatively affecting the lives of ordinary people who rely on these services.
Despite promises of national renewal, the Labour party has not effectively addressed these issues. To truly govern in the interest of the working class, Labour should prioritize the majority over financial markets and business interests. Addressing the cost of living requires concrete plans to increase wages and reduce expenses.
A crucial step would be to provide public workers with inflation-proof pay rises and implement an Employment Rights Bill 2.0 to ensure collective bargaining rights across sectors. As the UNISON general secretary, elected by public sector workers, my primary focus will be advocating for the working class and improving their conditions.
It is imperative for Labour to redirect funds towards public services rather than military endeavors. Investing in social welfare and revitalizing industries can have a more significant impact on people’s lives than spending on weapons. Prioritizing the working class is key to Labour’s future success and countering opposition like Farage.
As we enter the new year with hopes for renewal, the plight of four young individuals on a hunger strike while imprisoned deserves attention. These individuals, detained without conviction, protested non-violently against Israel’s actions in Gaza. The Prime Minister holds responsibility for their fate and the UK’s involvement in supporting Israel’s actions.
UNISON, representing over a million women, stands in solidarity with those opposing Israel’s actions. As the union’s general secretary, I will only accept a salary equivalent to that of a frontline social worker, emphasizing my commitment to the workers I represent.
The ongoing situation in Venezuela, with Trump’s actions deemed unlawful and violent, requires condemnation from Labour leader Starmer to distance the UK from such violations of international law.
At Reach and across our entities we and our partners use information collected through cookies and other identifiers from your device to improve experience on our site, analyse how it is used and to show personalised advertising. You can opt out of the sale or sharing of your data, at any time clicking the “Do Not Sell or Share my Data” button at the bottom of the webpage. Please note that your preferences are browser specific. Use of our website and any of our services represents your acceptance of the use of cookies and consent to the practices described in our Privacy Notice and <a data-testid
