More than 100 security workers contracted at three London museums, including the Victoria & Albert Museum, have announced plans to hold a historic strike from February 1-28 for better wages.
The dispute began in September 2023 and centers outsourced workers employed by the UK-based security contractor Wilson James, which works with the Natural History Museum, Science Museum, and V&A. Contractors are seeking a wage increases to £16 ($19) per hour, and benefits commiserate with those afforded to the full-time staff of the museums, all three of which are publicly subsidized and overseen by the UK’s culture department.
The strike coincides with the spring half-term, one of the most popular times to visit museums in London, however the union organized the action, United Voices of the World (UVW), has called on the public to refrain from visiting in solidarity. Security staff at the Young V&A Museum in Bethnal Green, and the V&A East Museum in Stratford also plan to join the action. If enacted, this will be the longest strike in the history of the institutions, according to a statement from UVW. A Wilson James spokesperson added in a statement first published by the Art Newspaper that the strike will take place over only a few hours of operation.
“We respect the right to strike, whilst remaining confident that we will continue to deliver excellent service to the museums and their visitors throughout this period of industrial action,” the spokesperson said, adding that “We continue to engage with UVW, seeking to formalize a recognition agreement that will support finding a resolution that is fair for all.”
Workers have petitioned museum trustees, including V&A trustee Amanda Levete, to support the strike publicly. Security workers have described recent pay offers as inadequate, accusing Wilson James of refusing to backdate London Living Wage increases introduced in November 2023.
UVW has initiated legal action against Wilson James for alleged discrimination and unfair pay practices.
Earlier this month, Wilson James stated that it continues to negotiate in good faith with its workers, and claimed to have instated a 5% pay increase that abides by London Living Wage standards.
The three museums have not yet issued statements on the dispute.
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