Strike action at a mental health charity has ended after staff voted to accept a new pay offer.

The industrial action at West of England mental health support charity Second Step had seen staff at sites across Bristol, Somerset, North Somerset, South Gloucestershire, Bath, Swindon and Wiltshire take part in 27 days of strikes over pay.

The renewed offer they have accepted includes improved pay, two additional leave days and formal recognition of Unison, to enable union representatives to negotiate pay, terms and conditions.

Strike action involved more than 100 workers and started with four days of action in January this year.

“Staff shouldn’t have needed to take 27 days of strike action to be heard. It’s disappointing it took so long for Second Step to recognise their concerns,” said Unison South West regional secretary Tim Roberts.

“Their determination has secured crucial improvements to pay and conditions, as well as union recognition so workers finally have a voice in negotiations overpay and working conditions.

“Second Step provides vital mental health support in communities across the South West. I’m glad to see this dispute come to an end so that staff can get back to focussing on the people who rely on these services.”

---