100% In Favour:

The result of Sanctuary Housing’s London maintenance workers ballot for action was overwhelmingly supported by members who voted 100% in favour of action on a 60% turnout.

Wake up call Sanctuary lead rep commented, “Since we started the union 2 years ago we have come a long way. Over the last year in particular we showed that we have got a voice. The result of this ballot shows how angry members are. 100% of members voting for strike action should be a wake up call for management.

Patience has run thin Many things have contributed to this result including the way we are treated on a daily basis. Our patience has run thin, we want an inflation proof pay increase, we want parity of conditions with office workers, we want our travel time to be part of core hours and importantly we also want our union to be recognised!”

Unite membership up dramatically Sanctuary workers have been forced into balloting for action as management have continually refused to negotiate with them. Members are particularly upset at the way their genuine concerns have been brushed aside or ignored. Our last piece of correspondence took management 3 months to respond to and then they had the cheek to ask us to bring our concerns to them as soon as possible! No wonder members see industrial action as the only viable option.Unite members at Sanctuary have seen their numbers rise dramatically over the last 18 months and with their confidence to push back at management. Our members will now start a process of intense discussion with their work colleagues to ensure maximum support for the strike. They will also be visiting other regions to spread the word and encourage their fellow workers to join them in their fight.

Sanctuary do not recognise any union Sanctuary workers will be striking over pay, disputes relating to travel time, parity with office staff, a four day week and recognition of their union.Sanctuary do not currently recognise any trade union which is why Unite members at Sanctuary have included this vital issue as part of their claim.Sanctuary claims to have 13,000 employees, manage over 120,000 properties and house or care for over 250,000 tenant and service users. This makes it one of the biggest employers in the sector. Our members are determined that Unite raises its profile and becomes the genuine voice of workers.