Ambulance workers were on the picket line from 6.30am last Wednesday.

NHS workers continue to fight to save the NHS

On Wednesday 11 January, ambulance workers took industrial action for the second time with a 24-hour strike starting at midnight. This Wednesday and Thursday, local nurses who are members of the Royal College of Nursing will make history by striking for the first time. Erica Smith keeps up to date with upcoming actions and events.

At the picket line on Wednesday, it was clear from speaking to both experienced and recent ambulance workers at the picket line that the reason they have chosen to strike is bigger than just a pay increase. One worker said he chose to leave a £72,000 job to retrain as an ambulance worker because he wanted a vocational role where he could give back to society.

Likewise, nurses have chosen to strike for the first time because they are worried about the health of their patients and the future of the NHS. Twelve years of Tory austerity have helped to create a crisis that may now be causing 300 – 500 deaths a week.

Pat Cullen, general secretary of the Royal College of Nursing said, “In the pandemic, politicians urged the public to clap for carers, but now they are wilfully ignoring nurses’ astonishing efforts and expertise… our members have had enough.”

Rally to show your support

The strike will run from 8am to 8pm on Wednesday 18 and Thursday 19 January. At noon on Wednesday, Hastings and District Trades Council (HDTC) is organising a rally on the roundabout by the entrance to the Conquest Hospital. On the previous evening, Tuesday 17 January, HDTC are holding an open meeting in support of the strikes at 7pm at the Isabel Blackman Centre, Winding Street, Hastings, TN34 3AT.

Solidarity not charity fundraiser

On Saturday 21 January there will be a benefit gig for local striking workers at The Pig pub, 37 White Rock.
Admission is free, but donations to support the strikers are welcome. Message from the Ravens, King Size Slim, Frank from Blue Velvet, Hastings Punk Choir and DJ Wendy May will all be performing.

Donations welcome

If you are unable to attend the rally or benefit, you are welcome to contribute directly to Hastings and District Trade Council’s hardship fund for local striking workers and their families: HDTC Hardship Fund: account number 67267886, sort code 08-92-99. Alternatively you can make a donation to the Hastings Ambulance Strike Fund via their crowdfunder.

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