Discussions took place after learning Assistants from 28 schools walked out in strike action.
A UNISON co-ordinator has given her view on the recent strike action that took place across 28 schools in West Dunbartonshire and hopes that they can come to a fair and appropriate solution. Learning assistants from across the area took part in a walk out on Wednesday 20 May due to a row over how their jobs are graded.
Anne Gourdie, a learning assistant herself for over 20 years and Unison Coordinator said that what herself and fellow members want is “equal pay, equal respect and equal values”.
She added that although the strike action is over and talks continue, there have been no significant updates from either the unions or West Dunbartonshire Council themselves.
The dispute itself centres around not just pay but how learning support staffs’ roles are currently evaluated and graded by West Dunbartonshire council. The evaluation and grading essentially determines what level or pay council workers will receive and what responsibilities they will have in their job specification.
Presently, the staff provide personal care to children with disabilities, behavioural challenges and complex medical needs but have said the work they do is not being paid fairly or appreciated.
Anne said they hoped that further talks would lead to “a fair wage, our work to be valued and more respect for the work that we do.” If an agreement is not reached, they warned that further strike action is not out of the question and is within their rights.
In an earlier statement from West Dunbartonshire Council a spokesperson said:
“We remain committed to minimising disruption where possible and are continuing to liaise with our union colleagues.”
Although no further outcome has been decided talks have continued between the union and council with hopes of a resolution to come in the next few weeks.
What is a job evaluation?
Job evaluation is a system used by councils or other employers to assess the requirements and responsibilities of a job role.
The job helps to decide what grade a job falls under and what level of pay workers receive. When carrying out an evaluation factors such as qualifications, responsibilities, decision making and working conditions are considered by evaluators.
Currently, learning assistants in West Dunbartonshire argue that the grading system used does not reflect their roles adequately and thus cannot be fairly evaluated.
Many learning assistants provide support for children with disabilities, behavioural challenges and complex medical needs, with staff claiming these duties are not fairly recognised through current pay structures.
For more info see West Dunbartonshire Councils job evaluation policy and procedure here.
