UNISON has called on Hereford City Council to listen to its staff and improve relations with trade unions following concerns about employment practices.
The union says it has struggled to secure meaningful discussions with the council's staffing committee over a collective grievance involving employees, with more than a month passing before the first investigation meeting took place.
It has also raised concerns about staff wellbeing, workforce consultations, suspension processes, a lack of trade union consultation on employment policies, changes to the staff handbook and reported data protection failures.
UNISON says it previously enjoyed a constructive relationship with the council, including regular talks on staffing policies and procedures, but that relations have deteriorated significantly following changes to workforce governance arrangements.
The union is urging councillors to take urgent action to address staff concerns and repair workplace relations.
UNISON West Midlands regional organiser Laura House said: ‘The union represents staff across Herefordshire and routinely works with employers to resolve workplace problems quickly and constructively.
‘Most issues can be resolved through openness, discussion and a willingness to listen. Unfortunately, that hasn't been UNISON's recent experience at Hereford City Council.’
The council has been approached for comment.
