Bin collectors in the London Borough of Waltham Forest are poised to strike in December in response to what they describe as unsatisfactory pay and working conditions. The refuse workers, employed by FCC Environment under an outsourced contract, have voted overwhelmingly in favour of industrial action after months of stalled negotiations over pay increases.

According to union figures, 97% of the GMB union members who participated in the ballot supported strike action, with a turnout of 58%. Although only around a third of workers belong to GMB, the strong mandate signals deep-rooted dissatisfaction. The union had earlier rejected a 2.8% pay rise offer, followed by a slightly improved 3.2% proposal from FCC, both deemed inadequate against the backdrop of rising living costs.

Typically, bin collectors in London earn between approximately £21,800 and £39,300 annually, with an average around £29,300 or £14 per hour. More senior roles, such as lorry drivers, can command salaries upwards of £51,000 depending on experience and location. The workers argue that the pay offers on the table do not reflect the demanding nature of their work or the increased cost of living.

GMB’s regional organiser Mary Goodson stressed this sentiment, saying the strike vote reflects the workers' firm stance built over months of subpar pay negotiations. “Our members have told FCC Environment that enough is enough. They want a proper pay uplift, which reflects their hard work and the high cost of living,” she said.

In addition to pay, union representatives have highlighted concerns about poor working conditions at the waste depot, including inadequate staff facilities and insufficient water supplies, which they say add to the challenges faced daily by refuse workers.

FCC Environment has indicated that it remains open to negotiations but declined to discuss matters publicly, stating it would not “negotiate through the media.” Meanwhile, Waltham Forest Council, which commissions waste collection services but does not employ the workers directly, expressed disappointment over the unresolved pay dispute. The council's deputy leader, Clyde Loakes, called for continued dialogue to reach a swift resolution, particularly so any back pay could be processed in time for Christmas.

The ongoing dispute highlights the complexities of outsourcing public services, where workers employed by contractors may face different conditions from directly employed council staff. Residents could face disruptions in waste collection if strikes proceed, underscoring the broader impact of such industrial action on community services.

As the strike dates have yet to be confirmed, both sides are under pressure to negotiate a resolution that balances fair compensation with service continuity ahead of the festive season.

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Source: Noah Wire Services