| Date: Mon 24 June 2013
Strike ballot over plans to axe 155 community care jobs and
slash salaries
UNISON members employed by Cornerstone Community Care in the
West of Scotland are being balloted on industrial action following
proposals to cut 155 support workers jobs.
Cornerstone has said that those who are unsuccessful in securing
their own jobs will be demoted to a support assistant role and
see their salaries slashed by £2,000 - £3,000.
Support workers employed by Cornerstone Community Care provide
quality care services to vulnerable adults in our communities.
Mark Clifford, UNISON Regional Organiser, said: “These
are draconian and unnecessary cuts. Our members, many of whom
have given years of loyal and dedicated service, are outraged
at the proposed job losses and a whopping £2,000 - £3,000
slashing of salaries for those who are demoted.”
Despite the organisation seeing a surplus of approx £375,000
last year, Cornerstone claims it cannot sustain the current levels
of support workers. It also claims that the need to reduce the
numbers is driven by the self directed support agenda and service
users’ care needs.
UNISON does not believe a coherent business case has been put
forward and that other options are available which would see the
current staff levels maintained.
Mark added: “UNISON has been left with no alternative but
to ballot our members for industrial action.
“We have during our negotiations consistently requested
that Cornerstone halt the changes and return to the negotiating
table and embark on a more meaningful and constructive dialogue.
Our members should not be held to ransom by the employer pushing
ahead with the proposals come what may.
“They already face financial hardship as a result of an
economic crisis brought about by the rich and greedy.
“Industrial action is always a last resort and we are always
prepared to restart negotiations but this can only be achieved
if there is a level playing field.
“We would urge the Cornerstone Community Care Board and
the Chief Executive to halt the process and explore with UNISON
a resolution to this dispute.”
ENDS
Notes to editors:
1. UNISON is Scotland’s largest trade union representing
160,000 members working in public services in Scotland, including
many in the community and voluntary sector.
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