Culture of Abuse at CityClean: Council's Response and Ongoing Challenges

In November 2023, a damning report led by human rights lawyer Aileen McColgan KC shed light on a troubling culture of abuse at CityClean’s Hollingdean depot in Brighton. Commissioned by the council in response to a whistleblowing complaint, the inquiry revealed incidents of violence, racism, homophobia, and misogyny among staff members. Among the alarming findings was an employee who brought weapons such as a samurai sword and nunchucks to work while the investigation was in progress. Furthermore, GMB union representatives claimed a CityClean manager was implicated in the death of a colleague who suffered a heart attack.

The report prompted urgent attention and action from Brighton and Hove councillors, who gathered recently to discuss ongoing cultural changes and required service improvements within the waste management sector. Councillors were also set to review proposals aimed at fostering a healthier workplace environment and enhancing overall service delivery. The council expressed commitment to addressing the serious issues highlighted by the report, citing numerous planned improvements, including disciplinary actions, adjustments to operational frameworks, and initiatives targeting behavioural and equality concerns.

In the 18 months since the publication of the initial report, the council has claimed “significant progress” in efforts to improve staff wellbeing and the quality of services provided to residents. However, setbacks have emerged this year, primarily attributed to staffing shortages, stringent spending controls, and outdated equipment. Officials indicated that diminishing performance levels could also stem from intentional counter-cultural behaviours perpetrated by a small number of individuals. Such incidents have been thoroughly investigated, leading to disciplinary measures, including dismissals where necessary.

Council leader Bella Sankey remarked, “When the depth of bullying, intimidation, racism, misogyny and homophobia at the depot was exposed by the KC report, I promised colleagues and residents we would take a zero-tolerance approach to this behaviour and begin the tough job of transforming our service into a high-quality and reliable one.” She underscored the necessity for a safe working environment, stating that both staff and residents deserve excellence in service and protection from intimidation.

As part of their response, the council has initiated a comprehensive culture change programme aligned with their Fair and Inclusive Action Plan, aimed at fostering a psychologically safe workplace. This initiative encompasses clear recommendations regarding acceptable workplace behaviours and strategies designed to stabilise operations whilst embedding a new cultural framework. However, the path towards profound culture change coincides with challenges that arise from systemic under-investment and lengthy service development issues, which had taken precedence over cultural reforms in prior years.

In a bid to enhance service delivery, the council has announced actions to elevate performance in waste collections, with plans to increase recycling rates and improve the overall appearance of the city. These activities include investments in modernising fleet capabilities and integrating new technologies, all intended to create a more efficient, reliable, and resident-focused service.

As Brighton and Hove moves forward, the landscape of CityClean remains under scrutiny. The imperatives for continued cultural transformation and operational excellence are clearer than ever, as both staff and residents look towards a future where qualitative improvements become the hallmark of the service.

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Source: Noah Wire Services