Lanarkshire carers set to strike this week over pay
The industrial action began last week in East Renfrewshire, Aberdeenshire, and Ayrshire, and will continue with further demonstrations in Edinburgh and Glasgow.
READ MORE: Police staff could strike in row over 'huge cuts'
UNISON says this marks the first nationwide strike in Scotland's care sector in over a decade, driven by what it describes as 'years of broken promises' from the Scottish Government regarding the long-promised reform and proper funding of social care services.
The current wave of action will culminate in a march and rally at the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh on Thursday, June 12, where care workers from across the country will call for fair pay and recognition.
Jennifer McCarey, UNISON Scotland's regional organiser, said: 'This has been a difficult decision for care workers. But they feel this is the only way they can get the Scottish government to listen to them.
'Care workers in Lanarkshire and across Scotland are standing up for themselves and for everyone who needs their support.'
READ MORE: Rail union launches strike ballot after 'unacceptable' pay offer
Among those taking part is Alfons Crichton, a personal assistant from Cumbernauld, who voiced frustration at continued low wages and unfulfilled commitments: 'We love our jobs and we know how much people rely on us. But we are some of the lowest paid workers in Scotland.
'None of us ever thought we'd be on strike, but we've had nothing but broken promises. This is about how much the Scottish government really values what we do.'
The union is urging the government to engage meaningfully with workers and address the long-standing issues plaguing the social care sector.
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