Gloucestershire’s reablement care workers are considering strike action amid plans to transfer their roles to a private provider. These workers, who play a crucial role in helping individuals regain independence after hospital stays, fear the move could lead to worsened pay and conditions.
Despite reassurances from Gloucestershire County Council that transferred staff will maintain their current contractual terms, employees remain apprehensive. Council leaders argue the new community reablement service will extend support to more residents—not just those leaving hospital—enhancing overall care provision.
However, workers warn that the outsourcing plan could damage morale, trigger staff departures, and ultimately reduce the quality of care for vulnerable residents. A strike ballot is currently underway, closing on Tuesday, July 28.
This outsourcing proposal follows the recent closure of the reablement facility at Great Western Court in Gloucester, which was deemed surplus to requirements. UNISON criticizes the council for imposing the transfer without consulting staff, expressing deep concerns over the service’s future.
Tim Roberts, South West regional secretary for UNISON, emphasized the vital role reablement workers play: “Staff are proud of the service they provide but fear their concerns are being ignored. We urge councillors to listen to their workforce, prioritize residents’ needs, and halt the transfer. Failure to do so may lead to strike action.”
Political responses have varied, with Greens supporting a review of the outsourcing plan. Conservative and Independent councillors have called for an extraordinary council meeting to advocate for keeping the service in-house. The council has agreed to a special scrutiny meeting to revisit the issue following concerns from staff and unions.
Councillor Craig Horrocks stressed the importance of balancing commissioning decisions with the wellbeing of the staff delivering these critical services. Councillor Richard Dean reflected on the profound frustration expressed by workers, emphasizing the need for transparency and full explanations rather than decisions made behind closed doors.
Conservative group leader Stephen Davies voiced concerns about safeguarding employment terms as staff transition to private providers, while Independent Councillor Alastair Chambers warned against the gradual privatization of care services.
Liberal Democrat cabinet member Kate Usmar highlighted the council’s position that the new community reablement service aims to provide quicker, high-quality care closer to home, ensuring sustainability and value for public funds. She acknowledged strong views on the service’s future and vowed to continue consulting with staff and unions to shape the best outcomes for Gloucestershire residents.