Border Force staff at Heathrow Airport are set to go on strike for four days starting on Saturday, August 31. The reason behind the strike is the ‘inflexible’ working conditions that the staff are unhappy with. The dispute arose due to new rotas being introduced, which the officers claim are affecting their work-life balance in a negative way.
Approximately 650 members of the Public and Commercial Services union (PCS) are expected to participate in the strike, citing grievances over the rigidity of the new rosters. Following the initial strike, the staff will then proceed to work to rule and will refuse to work any overtime from September 4 to 22. The union’s research revealed that a staggering four out of five Heathrow Border Force workers experience stress at work. Moreover, more than one in four employees have had to take time off due to stress or related mental health issues since the implementation of the new rosters in April.
The PCS highlighted that many staff members are struggling to balance their home commitments with work responsibilities, especially parents who find it challenging to manage dropping off and picking up their children from school. General secretary Fran Heathcote expressed concern over the impact of the inflexible rosters on the wellbeing of the staff. Heathcote suggested that the issue could be easily resolved if managers allowed greater flexibility and agreed on fixed shifts that would enable employees to plan their caring responsibilities more effectively.
In response to the impending strike action, a spokesperson from the Home Office acknowledged the important role that Border Force staff play in ensuring the safety and security of the country’s borders. The spokesperson reassured the public that discussions with the union are ongoing to reach a mutually beneficial agreement that addresses the concerns of both the staff and the public. While efforts will be made to minimize disruption, passengers are advised to stay updated on the latest travel advice from operators before heading to the airport.
The strike at Heathrow Airport serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by frontline workers in balancing their work and personal lives. It underscores the importance of addressing issues related to working conditions and employee wellbeing to ensure a harmonious work environment. As the discussions between the union and management continue, it is crucial for all parties involved to work towards a resolution that prioritises the welfare of the staff while maintaining operational efficiency at the airport.
