Security guards at the Science and Natural History museums in Kensington are standing up for fair pay increases, with threats of strike action looming if their demands are not met. The guards, represented by the union United Voices of the World (UVW), have expressed dissatisfaction with the current offer of £13.15 an hour from their employer and security contractor Wilson James. They argue that this offer falls short of addressing their needs and is not in line with the rising cost of living.
Demands for Fair Pay
The security guards are seeking a wage increase to £16 an hour, sick pay that starts from the first day of absence, and improvements in annual leave and compassionate leave policies. Currently earning £11.95 an hour with sick pay kicking in on the fourth day of absence, the guards feel undervalued and underpaid for the vital role they play in protecting the museums and their visitors.
Impact on Well-being
Catherine Campbell, a security guard at the Science Museum with 13 years of experience, expressed her frustration, saying, “I feel demoralised and sad that I’ve not had a proper pay rise. I believe this level of responsibility should be reflected in my salary.” Her colleague Bayo Owolabi added, “It’s quite disrespectful and demoralising that security guards are the lowest-paid staff in the Science Museum. The rising cost of living has made it hard to make ends meet.”
Kingsley Ampofo, a security guard at the Natural History Museum, shared his struggles, saying, “I have to work overtime to make ends meet.” These guards, many of whom are migrant workers, feel that their contribution to the museums should be recognized with fair compensation and benefits.
Calls for In-house Security Services
UVW’s general secretary, Petros Elia, criticized the decision to outsource security services, stating that it makes the guards feel like “second class workers.” He is advocating for the security services to be brought back in-house, giving the guards better job security and fairer treatment.
A Wilson James spokesperson responded to the situation, stating, “We highly value our employees and are committed to fair and transparent negotiations. We are actively engaged in conversations with our colleagues and formally recognized trade union representatives at both museums and remain dedicated to seeking an effective pay resolution.”
The guards have initiated a ballot to decide on potential industrial action, with plans to strike on intermittent dates between October 21 this year and April 3, 2025, if their demands are not met. The threat of a strike highlights the seriousness of the situation and the guards’ determination to secure fair pay and working conditions.
Impact on Museum Operations
The potential strike by security guards could have significant implications for the Science and Natural History museums in Kensington. With millions of visitors passing through their doors each year, the absence of security personnel could impact the safety and security of both the exhibits and the visitors.
Moreover, the negative publicity surrounding the dispute could tarnish the museums’ reputation and deter potential visitors. The museums rely on a positive public image to attract tourists, school groups, and researchers, and any disruption to their operations could have far-reaching consequences.
Public Support and Solidarity
In response to the guards’ plight, members of the public and other museum staff have shown their support and solidarity. Many recognize the essential role that security guards play in maintaining the museums’ operations and ensuring the safety of all who visit.
Calls for fair pay and better working conditions for security guards have resonated with those who value the contributions of these often underappreciated workers. As the guardians of our cultural heritage, security guards deserve to be treated with respect and provided with the compensation and benefits they rightly deserve.
As the standoff between the security guards and their employer continues, the outcome remains uncertain. However, the guards’ determination to fight for fair pay and better working conditions has sparked a broader conversation about the treatment of low-wage workers in the cultural sector.
In conclusion, the demands of the security guards at the Science and Natural History museums in Kensington for fair pay increases and improved working conditions reflect a broader struggle for economic justice and respect in the workplace. Their willingness to take a stand through the threat of strike action demonstrates their commitment to securing a better future for themselves and their colleagues. It is essential that their voices are heard and their demands are met to ensure a fair and equitable working environment for all museum employees.