Safety 999

Yorkshire ambulance service workers are striking this Friday (August 29) and Tuesday (September 2) in the 20 month dispute over patient and staff safety.

Earlier this summer the management brought in new working conditions in which emergency care assistants (ECAs) – who have only six weeks training – take on more responsibilities, including being the first to respond to a ‘red’ (emergency) call.

Paramedics complete a two-year degree course and Unite has repeatedly called for ECAs to receive more training to deal with the more difficult tasks they are facing.

There is also a new meal break system which means that those working up to a 12 hour shift will be entitled to a 45 minute break to be taken between the fourth and seventh hour of the shift, although when the service is busy Unite members can be refused a break – even on a 12 hour shift.

“Our members firmly believe that the public deserve a first-class, fully resourced ambulance service,” said Unite regional officer Terry Cunliffe.

“The trust’s chief executive David Whiting continues to play hard ball with his employees and has snubbed every genuine attempt by Unite to engage in positive talks. We have been buoyed up by the support we have received from Yorkshire people. Unite’s door is open for talks under the auspices of Acas at any time.”

Unite members continue their fight on behalf of the Yorkshire public to ensure patient care is paramount and that the already overstretched ambulance staff do not become exhausted in carrying out their duties.

The dispute started when bosses withdrew recognition from Unite as a union representing staff, after the union raised concerns about patient safety at the start of 2013.