Council worker strike set to disrupt services

A strike over pensions could lead to serious disruption in schools, children’s homes and children’s support services if it goes ahead later this month, local government leaders have warned.

Unions called for action following proposed changes to the local government pension scheme, which they say will result in worse pensions for low-paid workers.

The government wants to scrap the 85-year rule, which gives council employees the right to retire on a full pension at 60 if their age and years of service add up to 85 years or more. The Transport and General Worker’s Union called the proposals “unjust and unnecessary”.

But the Local Government Association warned that the strike could cause disruption to vital services as it would include social workers, clerical staff in schools, and staff in children’s homes.

LGA chair Sir Sandy Bruce-Lockhart criticised the unions for opting to take industrial action before any final decision had been made.

“Any stoppages would affect some of the most vulnerable in our society,” he said.