Ellie Ames 11 January 2024

Refuse workers strike over alleged 'bullying culture'

Refuse workers strike over alleged bullying culture image
Image: Peter_Fleming / Shutterstock.com

Bins across South Tyneside could go uncollected for eight weeks as refuse workers strike over what has been called a ‘toxic bullying culture’.

Industrial action by GMB union members is taking place this week before they are joined by Unite for a week-long strike beginning 23 January.

Action short of strike, comprising working to rule and ‘go slows’, has been ongoing since November.

When the action began, the GMB said: ‘In total, 100% majority of GMB members working at South Tyneside Refuse voted to strike in anger after years of inaction from the council to tackle a well-known toxic work atmosphere.’

GMB regional organiser Mark Wilson said: ‘The council needs to end this toxic bullying culture and engage with workers concerns.’

A South Tyneside Council spokesperson said: ‘The lines of communication remain open in the spirit of constructive and positive industrial relations.

‘We are disappointed that these latest rounds of strike action have come in response to communication with the crew, which not only reminded them of their important roles on the front line but reinforced our commitment to resolve matters and move forward.’

The local authority commissioned an independent investigation into the issues and has had the full report since late November, according to the GMB.

The union said it is yet to see a copy but hopes to see the full report tomorrow.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Family Support Worker

Durham County Council
Grade 6 - £27,269 - £30,060 (Pay award pending)
Do you have a real passion for helping families to make positive changes for themselves and their children? This might be the right role for you!   WH Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Clerical Officer Receptionist

Durham County Council
Grade 3 £24,404 - £25,183 Pro Rata to hours worked Pay award pending
WHAT IS INVOLVED? We are looking to appoint a part time Clerical officer/Receptionist within Business Services to provide a professional, effective a Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Administration Assistant

Durham County Council
£25,584 - £27,711 pro rata
Administration Assistant Grade 5    £25,584 - £27,711 pro rata Temporary – required from 1st October 2025 until 31 December 2025 37 hours per week, Te Consett
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Support Assistant

Durham County Council
£24,027 pro rata
Support Assistant Grade 1 £24,027 pro rata Temporary – required from 1st October 2025 until 31st October 2026 Part Time, 32.5 hours Mon - Fri 9am -4pm Consett
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Lecturer in Foundation Learning -Maths, English and Digital

Durham County Council
Grade 9 £34,314 - £37,938 pro rata for part-time term time working PAY AWARD PENDING
The DurhamLearn Foundation Learning programme area delivers Digital Skills, English and Maths Functional Skills.   An opportunity has arisen for a Lec Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner