Tracey Lees, YCB’s CEO, says: “We are disappointed with the proposed strike action being taken by Unison Members at Your Choice schemes next week.  After constructive discussions at ACAS earlier this year we made a one off payment to all employees as a gesture of goodwill and having listened to the concerns of employees and Unison we put forward a menu of options to Unison which all contributed to a reduction in the loss of pay but the majority of these were rejected.

“The rates of pay for Adult Social Care are a national issue that cannot be resolved by Barnet Council paying one supplier higher than market rates. In spite of the savings that needed to be made, our terms and conditions which include generous sick pay and pension schemes, remain higher than the majority of our competitors.

“We are especially concerned with the impact on our service users, their families and carers any industrial action might have and the short notice to put in place adequate alternative arrangements but are working closely with them to make sure any disruption to their routines and family lives is minimal.

“We have agreed to hold further discussions with Unison and ACAS but as yet these have not been forthcoming.”