South Yorkshire Police faces GMB staff strike threat over pay
Civilian staff set to be balloted on industrial action
Some of South Yorkshire Police’s civilian staff are being balloted over a possible strike over pay.
The GMB union say witness liaison officers can vote from today in a ballot that is due close on October 5.
If the vote supports strike action, the strike could be expected next month.
It has been called over witness liaison officers in West Yorkshire receiving better pay.
A union spokesman said: “GMB members in the witness liaison team are demanding their pay match that of their peers in West Yorkshire Police, who are paid up to £5,000 more per year, despite having the exact same job role and responsibilities.”
Witness liaison officers provide support and assistance to victims and witnesses throughout the criminal justice process, often speaking with and supporting highly vulnerable individuals including rape, domestic violence and child abuse victims.
South Yorkshire Police said they recognised the important role carried out by their witness liaison officers, who assist members of their communities during some of the most difficult periods of their lives.
They said in a statement: "In recent months we have engaged closely with a group of our WLOs in force to understand the matters they have raised and ensure fair and thorough consideration is given to the grading of their role.
"However, following two internal reviews of the role applying the relevant force policies, a peer review by an external force, and an independent external review, the resulting grade has remained unchanged on each occasion.
"We are disappointed by this ballot, however should strike action follow, contingency plans are available to ensure we continue to deliver for victims and witnesses in South Yorkshire."