Security guard workers at London’s Science and Natural History museums have voted to strike, their union United Voices of the World (UWV) announced today. The workers will strike for three days from 25 October over pay and sick leave.
The workers, who until this month earned £11.95 an hour, have been offered £13.15 (backdated to April) by their employer Wilson James, the BBC reports. Instead they are demanding £16 an hour, full sick pay and an additional week of annual leave.
A 96 percent turnout for the union vote means UVW can hold further strikes in the next six months without balloting again.
Petros Elia, general secretary for UVW, told the BBC: “These workers, many of whom are migrants, are responsible for the safety of millions of visitors and priceless artefacts, yet they’re paid some of the lowest wages in the museum.”
Wilson James claims it offers workers a competitive wage and remains dedicated to fair and transparent negotiations, which have been ongoing since early 2024. A spokesperson said: “We will do everything we can to maintain service through the strike period, and ensure the safety, comfort, and satisfaction of families and children excited to visit the museums during half term.”
