3 hours ago
BBC
Workers first voted to go on strike over pay and union recognition back in November
Strike action by staff at a mental health charity has been resolved after workers accepted a one-off payment.
More than 100 support workers and other staff at Second Step took part in 27 days of industrial action across Bristol, Somerset, South Gloucestershire and Wiltshire.
Unison rep Jack Dalrymple, 32, who has worked for Second Step as a support worker for almost five years, said as well as the additional money, the action has "changed the landscape" so that "staff can have a true, meaningful voice".
A spokesperson for Second Step said they are delighted to welcome colleagues back to work as the charity continues to provide its "vital services".
Second Step staff first voted to strike in November, and last month rejected a pay offer from management.
What has now been agreed is a one-off lump sum, which will be paid before the end of this month.
The deal agreed with the charity's management also includes two extra days of leave.
Dalrymple added he was "extremely proud of every single member that made a stand".
"There's never been industrial action at Second Step and I strongly believe that through that recognition deal, members have helped change the landscape so that staff can have a true, meaningful voice," he said.
He said that although members wanted a long-term pay rise rather than a single payment, they also recognise the achievement of the strikes.
"We have chosen to take this offer to provide immediate stability, but we do so with the expectation that management continues to invest, listen to and respect the staff who are the backbone of this organisation.
"Supporting mental health requires more than just compassion; it requires a sustainable commitment to those providing the care - we will be respected and we will be heard," he added.
Hev Christie, who works as a tutor at Bristol Recovery College, said the group had made "massive progress by withdrawing our labour, which was a difficult decision for many of us, given what we do".
"The recognition agreement is the real win as it means management will have to negotiate with the union ongoing," she said.
Second Step spokesperson added that delivering vital services to some of the most "marginalised people in our communities is what drives us all, and we look forward to continuing this work together".
