Centrepoint staff strike action averted

Strike action at Centrepoint has been averted after the union Unite and the homelessness charity reached an agreement over plans to cut staff pay.

Unite members voted in favour of a walk out on 4 November 2011 in protest at Centrepoint’s plans to reduce staff salaries. But after a meeting with the arbitration service ACAS the strikes have been dropped and Unite has agreed to a new offer from the charity.

The new agreement will see salaries reduced by 5% and ensures the charity will not implement a compulsory redunancy policy. The agreement also prevents further pay cuts for 15 months and limits reductions after that period to no more than 10%. The deal also confirms that staff work a 37.5 hour week.

“We are pleased that Centrepoint’s management listened to Unite and stepped back from the brink,” said Unite regional officer Matt Smith. “At our members’ union meeting, we received overwhelming support for the recommended offer. We believe this was the best deal possible.”

Centrepoint chief executive Seyi Obakin added: “We regret the need to restructure but are pleased to have reached an agreement with Unite and its members. We can now ensure the long-term existence of Centrepoint and continue to help homeless young people.”

Although strikes had been planned for 10 and 11 November, these did not take place.

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