Surrey social workers take industrial action

Approved social workers in Surrey will begin industrial action on 27 November over alleged staff shortages, excessive workloads and unpaid overtime.

The ASWs have voted to stop working overtime, which they say Surrey Council refuses to pay them for, and will go on strike on 30 Novmeber if the issue is not resolved to their satisfaction.

Public sector union Unison said that there were fewer than 40 operational ASWs in post across Surrey when the statutory minimum was 72.

It alleged that many ASWs at the council are at “breaking point” sometimes having to work until 12am to cover vacant posts, and said it informed the council of the problem

The union is demanding a £3,000 one-off compensation payment for each ASW. It said it told the council of the problem in August last year.