Trade unionists from Lancaster visited a Remploy factory in the North West at 8am this morning and were deeply shocked by what they found. They went to deliver messages of solidarity and a donation of £66.72 collected from workers shopping in central Lancaster on Saturday, and to find out how Remploy workers feel about today’s strike being called off by Unite and the GMB.
They found a silent factory, completely out of production. Equipment was being dismantled and packed up in crates. Tragically, several workers were waiting by static production lines for work to appear. Sickeningly, the only work being done was someone carrying out Work Capability Assessments (WCAs) on behalf of the local Jobcentre. WCAs were recently exposed as inhumane, unjust and dangerous to health on BBC’s Panorama and Channel 4 Dispatches TV programmes.
The brother of one worker says: ‘If my brother loses his job he will deteriorate rapidly. They say they will send a minder to check up on him every now and then. But he is very nervous and would never answer the door to a stranger.’ Another young deaf worker has said he may as well kill himself if he loses his job.
Most of the workers there have learning disabilities and are angry and confused about why the unions have called off the strike. They are desperate to get to the London demonstration outside the DWP on Wednesday, but need organised transport. The union rep has been trying to contact union officials but at the time of writing, with only 2 days left to organise for the demo, has still not received a reply. A Fighting Fund, held by the GMB union, has received many donations over the last fortnight, which could be used to pay for transport to London for all Remploy workers across the country.
The fight is now on to get workers and supporters to this demonstration, by any means necessary. Efforts are still being made to put pressure on the GMB to use the Fighting Fund and start organising minibuses and coaches to get people there. Messages and donations to Phil Davies, GMB, 22-24 Warpole St, London SW19 4DD. Phil.Davies@gmb.org.uk (cheques payable to GMB)
I am absolutely discusted, as a parent of 2 children with disabilites, one severe non verbal, I am honestly scared for their future, Whats next gas chambers!! I wish I could win the Euro Millions and help all you wonderful people who just want a chance to be treated like anyone else. Some one needs to step in and help, as the Governemet have abandoned them. Please dont give up the fight Xx