The planned strike by Gloucestershire reablement workers, initially set to begin on 17 August, has been called off after what officials described as “constructive discussions”. These workers, who support residents in transitioning from hospital to home life, had intended to take industrial action in protest against proposed plans to transfer the Gloucestershire County Council’s reablement service to private companies.
After talks involving Gloucestershire County Council, UNISON, and the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS), the industrial action scheduled from 17 to 31 August was withdrawn. Council and health service leaders have reassured residents that reablement support will continue uninterrupted, with no strike action taking place.
In a joint statement, Gloucestershire County Council and Gloucestershire Health and Care Trust said: “We are pleased that following constructive discussions between Gloucestershire County Council, UNISON and ACAS, planned industrial action has been withdrawn. The outcome reflects a shared commitment to finding a positive way forward and to supporting colleagues working within the reablement service. We would like to thank all those involved in the discussions for the constructive approach they have taken throughout.”
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From 1 September, the community reablement service will continue to be led by Gloucestershire County Council and delivered in partnership with specialist community reablement providers. The council emphasised that this will enable more residents to access timely support within their communities, helping them regain confidence, rebuild daily living skills, and maintain independence for longer.
The service aims to support individuals to stay safely at home, recover following illness or hospital stays, and reduce the need for ongoing care as well as prevent avoidable admissions to hospital or residential care facilities. UNISON has been contacted for comment but has yet to respond.