First South Yorkshire nursery strike "in a generation" as six locations set to close over pension row
“They’re angry and are going to fight the council on this”
A row over pensions is set to result in six nurseries closing for three days as staff take part in strike action.
More than 30 workers in Barnsley will strike on Monday, November 9, with the GMB Union claiming that negotiations with Barnsley Council over pensions broke down.
It is understood that the Reform UK-led council is planning to transfer nurseries to other providers, with the union claiming that these changes would result in lower pensions and pay.
However, Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council has argued that current staff terms and conditions - including pay - are protected, but this does not cover pensions.
The council claims it initially held discussions about whether staff could stay in the Local Government Pension Scheme, however further legal guidance revealed that they would not be eligible and this information was shared with trade unions in spring this year.
Between 9am and midday today, workers are set to demonstrate outside Grimethorpe nursery, which recently closed down.
Victoria Austin, GMB regional organiser, said: “This is the first time nursery workers in South Yorkshire have taken strike action in a generation. They’re angry and are going to fight the council on this.
"Nursery workers are vital for Barnsley’s future generations. They deserve security and stability for their futures too.
“Barnsley’s Reform council leadership must change course - for the sake of our town’s children."
The council said it has arranged “alternative activities” for families while nurseries are closed.
Councillor William Brown, leader of Barnsley Council, said: “We’re disappointed that GMB members have voted in favour of strike action. The decision to transfer these nurseries to another provider was taken to protect jobs and retain these services for families.
“Our nurseries will need to close on Monday, November 9, Wednesday, November 18 and Thursday, November 26 as a result of this action. We have arranged alternative activities for families on these days.
“We're continuing to engage with GMB representatives to see if we can find a way forward to end this action and prevent further disruption to services for families.”