Schools & Academies in England, Member Update – 17th December 2021
Dear Member
We hope this finds you safe and well.
As you will know from your school, the numbers of both pupil and staff absences due to Covid have increased and the Country is once again in a position of uncertainty and worry due to the emergence of Omicron.
SAFER WORKING
GMB London has put together an information sheet with important advice for safer working in schools. This contains the latest information and guidance from DfE and a refresher about all the measures that should be in place. It is easy to forget some of the most basic advice as so much has happened in the past 18 months and Covid has become a part of day to day to life. The information sheet also contains advice for clinically extremely vulnerable and pregnant members.
JANUARY 2022
In addition, please click here for a template letter you may wish to send to your Head Teacher in advance of returning to work in January. The letter can be sent from you as an individual or from GMB members within your school. If you have any colleagues who are not yet in a Union they can join GMB online at www.gmb.org.uk/join. Our strength is in our numbers and together we are stronger.
Given the confusion and chaos caused by Government about schools reopening after last year’s Christmas Holiday, GMB London would like to reassure you that we will be following events closely throughout the Christmas period and will send you advice if anything changes between now and then.
NJC INDICATIVE BALLOT RESULT
GMB London would like to thank all members who took part and voted in the recent NJC Local Government and School Indicative Industrial Action Ballot. Over 100,000 GMB members were asked to take part in this indicative industrial action ballot and now it is closed GMB regions will be looking at the result of the ballot with Local Government and School Trade Union Representatives and deciding upon the next steps. The results will be posted on the GMB London Region website www.gmblondon.org.uk.
THANK YOU
The past year has been difficult for so many people, especially for those working in Schools and Academies. GMB London would like to thank you all for your hard work and commitment to our children and wishes you and your family a safe and happy festive period.
Thank you for your continued support.
With best wishes
Lisa Bangs, GMB London Region Organiser
Keith Williams, GMB London Region Senior Officer
