Key workers have more than proved their worth during the pandemic.

As trade unionists, we have always spoken up for workers who provide vital services to our communities and have always fought for better terms, conditions and pay that truly reflects their skills and value.
 

Although lauded during the lockdown, and applauded each week by the public and the government, this public expression of appreciation has not resulted in improvements to key workers’ pay and conditions, nor the respect and dignity they deserve from some members of the public.
 

There remain far too many workers in critical, unsung occupations who are poorly paid, often needing in-work benefits or food banks to get by. At the start of the year, the TUC found over 2 million key workers in Britain were on the minimum wage; 3 in 4 work in the private sector. Many of these workers are also in precarious employment, stuck on insecure work contracts with few benefits and treated appallingly.
 

This is a cause for which trades unions must continue to be active.
 

As the pandemic continues, Gloucester & District, Bristol, and Bath Trades Councils invite friends, activists and other interested trade unionists to a Key Workers Summit where we will hear from key workers on the front lines.

The aim is to begin a broad discussion on how we can bring together trade unionists and trades councils in the South West to start thinking about what a campaign or campaigns could look like, to win for key workers.

We will seek to identify ways of moving public focus back onto key workers, explore opportunities to collectively organise and to strengthen participation and activity in local Trades Councils.

To get involved and help win a better deal for our key workers, click on the link to register.