Six hundred Social Care Workers, members of Unison and employees of Glasgow City Council Social Work Services began all-out indefinite strike action on Tuesday 24th July in pursuit of their claim for a higher grading.

See STV report on strike with comments from Brian Smith and other Social Care Workers http://tinyurl.com/2s99uc

Ian Leech, Solidarity member, Social Care Worker, Unison Steward reports from the strike (in a personal capacity):

"On protest lines, organised at area offices and satellite buildings, the mood was upbeat and determined and were given the occasional boost by the acts of solidarity shown by staff not involved in the dispute at this stage who spent time with colleagues and sent out urns of hot water for tea.

"In addition, other workers demonstrated their solidarity by refusing to deliver post or enter buildings to undertaken repairs.

"The strikers themselves organised picketing rotas, contact details and, in some cases publicity for distribution to the public and other workers.

"It was clear before the day began that the Council, despite having presented a vague outline of offer, were going to monitor the response to the first days of strike action. Despite rumours circulating about workplaces that were not taking action, telephone calls between those taking action demonstrated that this was not the case.

"The strike has had an immediate effect. Staff not initially involved have been put onto work covering emergencies and other tasks that have statutory requirements. The staff concerned have been instructed by the union to delay work by demanding supervision and workload management discussions. The union intends to ballot them on supportive strike action starting Thursday 26th July.

"A lively mass meeting of strikers held in the Glasgow city centre allowed for report backs from areas and focussed upon organisational tasks. Crucial to which would be the active participation of each and every striker in debate and decision making during the period of the strike. Already names were being offered up of volunteers to participate in these tasks and duties from the protest lines.

Solidarity Councillor for Craigton ward, Ruth Black, has pledged 100% support to the workers Ruth said:

“Solidarity gives our 100% backing to this courageous action. The care workers fight for dignity and for recognition for the job that they do deserves the support of all trade unionists. Solidarity is proud to stand alongside these workers and will do all that we can to help in what we hope will be a speedy victory."

Solidarity play an important role in Glasgow, particularly in the SWS department with Solidarity members Ronnie Stevenson the UNISON convenor and Brian Smith the SWS secretary as well as several shop stewards.

Send urgent messages of solidarity and donations to Glasgow City Unison 4th floor 18 Albion Street G1 1 LH