Hospital Porters at UHS to Strike Over Break Policy Dispute

Porters at a hospital have voted to initiate strike action, citing management’s alleged implementation of “diabolical” toilet break regulations and the removal of chairs intended to deter brief rests. According to previous statements made by porters to the BBC, employees at University Hospital Southampton (UHS) were reportedly instructed to seek authorization for toilet breaks, with female staff members required to request additional time during their menstrual periods. The initial 24-hour industrial action by members of Unite is scheduled for Thursday, 28 November. Subsequent strikes are planned for every Monday and Friday across December and January. University Hospital Southampton has been approached for an official statement. Unite reported that “the 60 plus porters” affiliated with the union cast an “overwhelming” vote in favor of the strike. Kate Attwooll, a regional officer for Unite, stated, “The strike action will inevitably cause serious disruption across the hospital but this is entirely the fault of management, they are well aware of the problems but have failed to take action to prioritise staff and patient safety and dignity.” Picket lines are planned for each day of the industrial action, positioned next to the primary entrance of Southampton General Hospital. Steve Harris, the chief people officer at University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, stated in October that he was initially informed of these allegations in August. He indicated that he had “immediately commissioned an external review to look at the culture within the department.” Harris further commented, “No-one in the organisation is required to essentially inform their supervisor or their manager when they’re menstruating.” He also stated, “Our porters are entitled to three official breaks during every shift and are actively encouraged to stay hydrated using any of the water cooler facilities throughout our hospitals.” You can follow BBC Hampshire & Isle of Wight on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.