Security staff at London's Science and Natural History museums plan three-day strike over pay

Security workers at London's Science and Natural History museums have voted to strike for three days starting 25 October, as announced by their union United Voices of the World. The dispute centers on pay, with employees currently earning £11.95 an hour and offered £13.15 by employer Wilson James, backdated to April, while demanding £16 hourly, full sick pay, and an extra week of annual leave. A 96% turnout in the union vote allows UVW to call further strikes within six months without additional balloting. Petros Elia, UVW's general secretary, highlighted that many migrant workers safeguarding millions of visitors and priceless artifacts receive among the lowest museum wages. Wilson James asserts it provides competitive wages and remains committed to fair negotiations ongoing since early 2024, pledging to maintain services during the strike to ensure visitor safety and satisfaction, especially during the half-term period.