East of England Ambulance Service faces strike vote

The East of England Ambulance Service faces a strike vote as GMB Union launches a formal industrial action ballot.

Ballot dates will be announced in the coming days. 

The vote comes following a consultative ballot which saw almost 86 per cent of EEAS members in favour of a walk out. 

GMB has almost 800 EEAS paramedics and ambulance workers who are angry over the Government’s imposed 4 per cent pay award, which leaves them facing yet another massive real terms pay cut. 

GMB has also announced a formal strike ballot in Yorkshire, North East, West and East Midlands and North West Ambulance Services. 

Lola McEvoy, GMB Organiser, said:  

“GMB members in the ambulance service have been forced to take a stand in order to protect patient care.  

“Dedicated ambulance workers are leaving trusts in droves because the workload pressure is too much and the pay is too poor. 

“Those left behind are fighting to protect themselves, their colleagues and the future of the NHS. 

“They do not take industrial action lightly and haven’t gone on strike for 40 years – but things can’t go on like this; something has to give.” 

Contact: Lola McEvoy, GMB London Region Organiser 079 6744 0297 Holly Turner GMB London Region Organiser 078 1354 2046.