Train drivers from 16 different companies are preparing to go on strike over pay and working conditions. Rolling one-day walkouts will take place between Friday and Monday, and train commuters are warned to expect significant disruption. The strike by drivers of the Aslef union is expected to result in cancellations, delays, and a lack of services in some regions on strike days. Members of Aslef will also refuse to work rest days between April 4 and April 6 and again between April 8 and 9.
To find out whether train services are operating, passengers are advised to consult the National Rail website. Passengers may be entitled to a fee-free refund if any part of their journey is canceled due to strikes. Flexi, monthly, or longer season ticket holders who cannot travel may claim 100% compensation for strike dates through the Delay Repay scheme.
Aslef is seeking better pay and working conditions for its members. The union has rejected an offer to see a 4% pay increase for two years in a row. Train companies argue that working practices need to change for wages to rise, owing to financial constraints and equitable treatment.
Unions in disputes must reballot members every six months to determine whether they wish to proceed with industrial action. Unions must provide at least 14 days’ notice of any strike action. Guards and ticket office workers, who were involved in industrial strikes, have accepted a pay increase of 5% for 2022-23 and job security guarantees. Talks are ongoing over future contract and working practice negotiations.
The Department for Transport has recommended that employers adopt minimum service levels “if appropriate to do so and to deliver the best possible service.” However, unions vehemently oppose this. The Office for National Statistics puts median pay for “train and tram drivers” at just under £59,000. The Aslef rejected offer would bring the average train driver salary to £65,000 rather than the £45,919 average salary of all rail workers in 2022
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