Security guards at the Science Museum, Victoria and Albert Museum, and the Natural History Museum in London have launched a historic month-long strike demanding better pay and working conditions. The strike, organized by the union United Voices of the World (UVW), began on February 1 and is scheduled to run every day through February 28. UVW has described the action as “unprecedented” and “the longest strike in the history of all three institutions.”
Around 100 security guards employed by the external contractor Wilson James are participating in the strike, which also includes workers at the Young V&A Museum in Bethnal Green and the V&A East Museum in Stratford.
Workers Demand Fair Pay and Parity with Museum Staff
The striking security guards are demanding a pay increase to £16 per hour, sick pay from day one, and equal benefits with directly employed museum staff. This includes more annual leave and an annual bonus. UVW is urging the public to support its members by avoiding visits to the museums during the strike.
In a statement, UVW said, “The workers, who are outsourced to private security contractor Wilson James, are fighting for a pay rise and equitable treatment compared to directly employed museum staff.”
Previous Strike Action and Employer Response
The strike follows earlier industrial action this month, during which Wilson James, the employer, acknowledged the workers’ demands. A spokesperson for the company stated, “We offer competitive compensation and are committed to transparent negotiations with our recognized unions. While we acknowledge the demands put forward by UVW, we are seeking a resolution that balances fair pay with the need to remain financially responsible.”
UVW has also initiated a series of legal claims against Wilson James in response to the ongoing dispute.
Public Impact and Support for Striking Workers
The strike is expected to impact visitor access and operations at the affected museums. UVW has encouraged the public to stand in solidarity with the security guards by not visiting these institutions during the month-long strike.
As the strike progresses, both parties remain locked in negotiations, with no immediate resolution in sight. Updates on the situation are anticipated as the industrial action continues.
