Staff at the mental health charity Second Step in Bristol are set to strike beginning tomorrow, with a total of 112 employees walking out for four days. The strike, organized by the union Unison, aims to address concerns over pay and working conditions for those supporting individuals facing mental health challenges.
In anticipation of the industrial action, Second Step has enacted contingency plans to minimize disruption to its services. The charity, located on Pennywell Road, confirmed that team managers will assist staff who continue to work during the strike. A spokesperson stated, “While we respect the right of union members to take lawful industrial action and remain committed to constructive conversations with Unison, our main priority remains maintaining safe, continuous support for the people who rely on our services every day.”
The strike will occur over two separate periods: tomorrow and Wednesday, followed by another walkout on Wednesday and Thursday of next week. Tim Roberts, the regional secretary for South West Unison, expressed the sentiments of the striking workers, saying, “Workers want to focus on supporting people experiencing mental health difficulties, not worrying about how they will pay their bills.”
Second Step collaborates with the NHS and other organizations to provide a wide range of mental health services, making the continuity of its operations particularly vital. The organization has thanked its clients for their patience during this period of industrial action, highlighting its commitment to maintaining essential support for individuals in need.
As the strike approaches, the charity is working diligently to ensure that the impact on clients is minimized, emphasizing the importance of its services in the community. The outcome of the negotiations between Second Step and Unison will be closely monitored as both sides aim to reach a resolution that addresses the concerns of the staff while maintaining crucial support for those experiencing mental health difficulties.
