Bus strikes – what you need to do now

Barnet UNISON depot members please read the advice below.

The Unite bus strikes affecting Arriva North London services start this Friday, 14 August, and continue on further dates through to October. If your journey to work depends on one of the affected routes, please read this and act now.

When the strikes are happening

Strike periods are: 14–15 August, 18–21 August, 25–28 August, 4–5 September, 7–8 September, 18–19 September, 21–22 September, 2–3 October, 5–6 October, and 16–17 and 19–20 October. Each period runs from just before 4am on the first date through to just before 4am on the day after the last date shown.

What to do now

If you think you’ll have trouble getting to work this Friday because your bus route is affected, speak to your supervisor today – don’t wait until the morning of the strike. The same applies ahead of every other date listed above. The earlier you flag it, the more time there is to sort something out.

What the Council is looking into

We’ve met with the Assistant Director, who is looking at practical ways to help affected staff get in on strike days. This includes putting on alternative transport, arranging car sharing, and asking supervisors to pick up staff who are struggling to get in. Nothing is confirmed yet, which is exactly why speaking to your supervisor now matters – it’s how you get included in whatever gets arranged.

If you’re not getting help

If you raise this with your supervisor and you’re not offered any practical support, or you’re told you’ll be marked late or absent through no fault of your own because of strike disruption, contact us straight away. Don’t just stay off work without speaking to your supervisor and to UNISON first.

Contact your workplace UNISON rep, or the branch office directly at contactus@barnetunison.org.uk , if you need help.

End.