The United Voices of the World (UVW) union, based in London, has launched a legal battle against Wilson James, an external contractor.
This decision arises from serious allegations of discrimination, victimization, and unlawful pay cuts affecting their members.
Strike and Demands
Around 100 security guards, represented by the UVW, work for Wilson James across three major London institutions: the Victoria and Albert Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the Science Museum.
In a powerful move, these workers are planning to strike from January 17 to 20, demanding fairer wages amid ongoing frustrations over their stagnant pay.
The UVW has highlighted the prolonged stagnation of salaries for these security officers, which have contributed to real-term losses in their earnings.
After a history of 16 days of striking, they are insisting on a pay rate of £16 per hour, alongside improved sick leave policies and an additional week of annual leave.
Legal Claims and Allegations
In response to these developments, a spokesperson for Wilson James expressed their dedication to fair pay and open communication with unions.
While recognizing the UVW’s demands, they also stressed the importance of balancing equitable wages with financial responsibility.
The UVW has filed three major legal claims against Wilson James, addressing serious issues including discrimination based on race and disability, unlawful pay reductions, victimization, and instances of alleged blacklisting.
One notable incident involves a zero-hours worker who, after refusing to cross a picket line during last year’s strikes, saw a decrease in shifts and pay—a situation the union claims was punitive.
Moreover, the union has highlighted the experiences of a migrant worker who faced racial slurs and a female security guard who was denied a chair while recuperating from cancer.
Company’s Response
Representatives from Wilson James have reiterated their commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful work environment for employees and the public alike.
They acknowledged the specific allegations raised by the union and are engaging with relevant parties to seek amicable resolutions, firmly opposing any coercive practices regarding attendance.
This ongoing conflict underscores the vital rights and demands of workers, paving the way for a future characterized by fairness and respect in the workplace.