Security personnel at several museums in London are set to initiate a strike lasting a month as tensions rise over compensation and working conditions.
Approximately 100 members of the United Voices of the World (UVW) union, representing workers at the Science Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the V&A Museum, will cease work throughout February.
According to the union, this strike is historic, marking the longest work stoppage seen at these three institutions.
A representative from Wilson James, the contractor that employs the security staff for the museums, stated that they are pursuing a resolution that “ensures fair wages while maintaining financial responsibility.”
UVW members are advocating for an increase in pay, enhanced sick leave benefits, and full alignment with the salaries and benefits of directly employed museum personnel, which includes additional annual leave and a yearly bonus.
The workers had previously engaged in strikes in January, as well as last October and December.
Petros Elia, general secretary of UVW, expressed that the strike reflects the members’ “steadfast commitment” to “achieving dignity and equality in the workplace.”
A spokesperson for Wilson James emphasized: “We greatly value the contributions of our colleagues in safeguarding and enriching the visitor experience.”
They added, “The safety of our team and the public is our utmost concern, and we strive to maintain a fair and respectful working environment.”
The spokesperson continued, “While we recognize the requests made by UVW, we are looking for a resolution that balances equitable pay with financial prudence.
“We honor the right to strike while remaining confident that we can uphold excellent service for the museums and their patrons during this period of industrial action.”
