Second Step staff end strike action after deal struck

More than 100 employees at Second Step took part in 27 days of industrial action across the South West <i>(Image: PA)</i>
More than 100 employees at Second Step took part in 27 days of industrial action across the South West (Image: PA)
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Staff at a mental health charity in the South West have ended strike action after securing improved pay, extra leave, and formal union recognition.

More than 100 employees at Second Step, including support workers, recovery specialists, and central staff, took part in 27 days of industrial action across Bristol, Somerset, North Somerset, South Gloucestershire, Bath, Swindon, and Wiltshire.

The dispute has now been resolved following an agreement with the charity.

The deal includes an improved pay offer, two additional days of annual leave, and official recognition of UNISON as the representative union for future negotiations on pay and conditions.

Tim Roberts, UNISON South West regional secretary, said: "Staff shouldn't have needed to take 27 days of strike action to be heard.

"It’s disappointing it took so long for Second Step to recognise their concerns.

"Their determination has secured crucial improvements to pay and conditions, as well as union recognition so workers finally have a voice in negotiations over pay and working conditions.

"I’m glad to see this dispute come to an end."

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