Strike action averted at East of England Ambulance Service as changes to working arrangements scrapped

The East of England Ambulance Service Trust (EEAST) has avoided industrial action after backing down on proposed changes to working arrangements.

GMB Union – which has more than 1,500 members working for the trust – raised concerns from members over proposals to introduce teams-based working.

These changes would have had a major impact on work life balance, and risked discriminating against people with caring responsibilities, as well as those with disabilities.

GMB members also raised concerns that the proposals had not been communicated properly to staff and could have a detrimental impact on patients and the public.

GMB challenged the proposals both informally and through a formal ACAS process, but these ended without resolution.

The newly appointed CEO, Neill Moloney, agreed to scrap teams-based working, averting looming strikes which would have impacted the Christmas period.

Donna Thomas, GMB Regional NHS Organiser, said,

“It is a breath of fresh air that, after five years of declining culture within the EEAST, Neill Moloney has decided to take a different approach.

“He has listened to the workforce and shown he cares for their welfare more than statistics.

“GMB looks forward to working with him to improve the wellbeing of our members, which will positively impact patient care.”