Hundreds of workers employed by outsourced contractor Medirest will now be represented by GMB reports Roshni Ray

A smiling man with a pen signing a piece of paper, as four other people stand behind a table — The agreement is signed (Credit – Barnet Hospital)

Workers employed by an outsourced contractor at Barnet Hospital will have trade union representation following an agreement last month.

Trade union, the GMB and support services company Medirest signed a voluntary recognition agreement to give the workers representation.

The agreement allows the GMB to negotiate with Medirest on pay, terms, and conditions on behalf of outsourced workers employed by the company at the hospital in roles such as caterers, porters, security, and cleaners.

Explaining the benefits of recognition, Jack Phipps, GMB regional organiser, said: “Workers at employers with union recognition have better pay, better conditions, and the structures to negotiate and stand up for their rights at work.

“Outsourced workers are the backbone of the NHS but they carry out their vital work with worse pay, leave, and sickness benefits than directly employed colleagues at the exact same hospitals.”

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