GMB opposes the outsourcing of services at the L&D
GMB are meeting on Thursday 30th January to build opposition to outsourcing of service at Luton & Dunstable Hospital
Catering, domestic, and housekeeping services are the glue that keep our hospitals running. Keeping patients fed and the wards clean and are vital in the fight against infection says GMB London
GMB, the union for NHS staff, is holding a meeting on Thursday 30th January to build opposition to steps by The Luton & Dunstable Hospital a start preparing to outsource some of the most vital hospital services. The proposed deal would see a new 10-year contract for catering, domestic, and housekeeping services.
The details of the meeting are as follows:
PUBLIC MEETING
THURSDAY 30TH JANUARY - 2pm to 3pm
AT THE CLUB,
LEWSEY SPORTS PARK,
PASTURES WAY,
LUTON LU4 0PF
Hilda Tavolara, GMB Regional Organiser, said:
"There is every likelihood of the contract going to the lowest bidder with no regard for the terms and conditions of people keeping our loved ones fed or ensuring a clean and safe environment. This would be another step towards a two-tier workforce in our health service.”
GMB has seen the erosion of wages and terms and conditions in other outsourced provision in the Luton & Dunstable Hospital and fear for the safety of patients, staff, and visitors.
GMB members working in catering, domestic, and housekeeping services are the glue that keep our hospitals running. Keeping patients fed and the wards clean and are vital in the fight against infection.
If companies to whom these services are outsourced are allowed to undermine the terms and conditions of GMB members at the hospital, members who work with exceptional diligence and care, there will be a direct effect on the standard of care.
GMB calls on the Luton & Dunstable Hospital to demonstrate its commitment to standards of care for patients, staff, and visitors, by bringing these services back in-house, allowing GMB members to earn a decent wage and to directly manage the standards of food and cleanliness at the hospital.
“The outsourcing of the service is a short-sighted cost cutting measure which is to the detriment of vital workers who deserve to be treated fairly by their employer. Patients’ care must be put above private profit.
“These services should not be given over to another private company. Bring these services back into the NHS. Staff and patients deserve better!
GMB is asking for staff to attend a public meeting on Thursday 30th January to voice your concerns and solidarity"
End
Contact Hilda Tavolara on 07978 784737
