Hundreds of female council workers in Falkirk, Renfrewshire and West Dunbartonshire have walked out in protest over pay grading systems they claim undervalue their roles compared to male-dominated jobs. The strikes, involving nearly 500 workers, mark the latest wave of equal pay disputes across Scotland.
The action follows a landmark strike by over 8,000 female carers, caterers and cleaners in Glasgow in 2018, which led to a £500 million settlement from Glasgow City Council. Similar disputes are ongoing in Dundee, Perth and Kinross, Angus, Fife and Moray.
GMB Scotland secretary Louise Gilmour warned that local authorities risk bankruptcy if they fail to address claims, comparing their approach to 'the Titanic approaching the iceberg'. She called on the Scottish government to establish a specialist body to handle equal pay claims nationwide.
Fiona O'Brien, a home carer in Renfrewshire and GMB representative, said she took strike action as a 'last resort' after being taken for granted for too long. She highlighted the complexity of her role, which includes administering medications and caring for people with dementia, arguing it is not reflected in her pay grade.
The GMB said successful claims could result in back pay of up to five years, costing councils millions. Falkirk, West Dunbartonshire and Renfrewshire councils stated they remain committed to fair pay and are engaging with unions, though Renfrewshire noted that GMB is continuing industrial action while other unions paused to consider a renewed offer.
