Primary schools across West Dunbartonshire are to close this week as learning assistants are set to walk out the classroom amid an ongoing pay dispute.
UNISON's local branch has announced that their members will go on strike on Wednesday, May 20, after almost 98% voted for the industrial action.
Scotland's largest union, previously said the staff feel 'undervalued' amid an ongoing dispute over job grading.
The staff provide personal care to children with disabilities, behavioural challenges and complex medical needs, but their expertise is not reflected in their pay, the union says.
West Dunbartonshire Council sent a letter to parents and carers at the end of last week informing them that they have made the decision to shut 28 mainstream primaries who employ grade three learning assistants, on this day.
It is understood that this will be all primaries with the exception of Levenvale, Knoxland, Linnvale and St Mary's Primary School in Duntocher.
The letter says that the council is "sorry" for any disruption but they cannot allow children into the school buildings when it is not "safe to do so."
Breakfast clubs and after school care provision at these schools have also been cancelled.
Gillian Bannatyne, UNISON regional organiser, said: "Going on strike is the last thing these staff want to do, but their voices have been ignored for well over a year and they've had enough.
"They're determined to persuade the employer to listen and take their roles seriously."
Aly McCulloch, UNISON West Dunbartonshire branch chair, added: "Learning assistants take their responsibilities far beyond their job descriptions.
"They de-escalate violent incidents, provide intimate personal care and support children with profound needs. Yet they're only paid for basic classroom support."
READ MORE:
-
Warning as Clydebank GPs to temporarily close next week - here's why
-
Man found dead in Clydebank flats named for first time as arrest made over a year on
-
'Iconic' Clydebank chippy announces change which 'wasn't taken lightly'
West Dunbartonshire Council say they have been in conversation with the union and are "disappointed" by the decision to strike.
A spokesperson for WDC said: "We value the vital work learning assistants undertake within our classrooms and are disappointed they are taking industrial action.
"We remain committed to minimising disruption where possible and are continuing to liaise with our union colleagues.
“Like other authorities, we are bound by the Scottish Joint Council Job Evaluation Scheme which is agreed by UNISON, Unite and GMB and have an agreed local policy which includes evaluations undertaken jointly with union analysts. This ensures consistency and equal pay for work of equal value.
"We will continue to support this group of employees in any subsequent job-Evaluation resubmissions."
Share