Top London museums' security staff vote to strike

Security guards at some London museums are to stage a month-long strike in an escalating dispute over pay and conditions.

About 100 members of the United Voices of the World (UVW) union based at the Science Museum, Natural History Museum and V&A Museum will walk out for the whole of February.

The union said the action was unprecedented and would make it the longest strike in the history of all three institutions.

A spokesperson for Wilson James, the contractor which employs the security guards on behalf of the museums, said it was seeking a resolution that "balances fair pay with the need to remain financially responsible".

Members from UVW are campaigning for a pay rise, improved sick pay and full parity with directly employed museum staff, including more annual leave and an annual bonus.

Workers previously went on strike in January, last October and December.

Petros Elia, UVW general secretary, said the strike showed members' "unwavering determination" to "achieve dignity and equality at work".

A spokesperson for Wilson James, which employs the security guards, said: "We place the highest value on our colleagues' contributions to protecting and enhancing visitor experiences.

"The safety of both our team members and the public is our top priority, and we are committed to maintaining a respectful and fair working environment."

The spokesperson added: "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.

"We respect the right to strike, whilst remaining confident that we will continue to deliver excellent service to the museums and their visitors throughout this period of industrial action."

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