Cleaners in coronavirus-hit London hospital walk out after private contractor fails to pay wages
“Infected patients are now being admitted into the hospital, but the cleaners have downed tools because they haven’t been paid” says GMB Union
Cleaning, portering and catering staff at Lewisham Hospital - where Coronavirus cases have been treated - have walked out after private contractor ISS failed to pay the wages of the hospital workers.
Furious workers stormed off the job during a row with the outsourcing company. Now ISS risks leaving wards uncleaned and meals not being served if they can’t settle the low paid workers’ wages
Helen O’Connor, GMB Organiser, said: “For many of these workers missing just one pay cheque means not being able to pay the rent, or put food on their families’ tables.
“They are at the end of their tether following weeks of their pay being short - now today they get no pay at all.
“This could not have happened at a worse time - we are facing a coronavirus pandemic and infected patients are now being admitted into the hospital.
“Meanwhile the people who are meant to be keeping the hospital clean and safe are not getting paid
“Once again the dangers of outsourcing in the NHS are laid bare for all to see.”
Media enquiries: GMB Press Office on 07958 156846 or at press.office@gmb.org.uk
