Time is up – after receiving no sign from the government of movement over teachers’ pay, the NASUWT has launched strike ballots. Dr Patrick Roach argues why his members must vote yes
Members of the NASUWT will be aware by now that we have announced we will be balloting in England, Scotland and Wales later this month for industrial action over pay.
This is the first time since 2011 that we have moved towards national industrial action, In the midst of the worst cost of living crisis for almost 50 years we cannot accept what amounts to the biggest real-terms pay cut for teachers in a generation.
Our members are facing unprecedented financial strain. We recently surveyed more than6,500 members on the cost of living (NASUWT, 2022) and 97% told us they are worried about their financial situation. Furthermore, 65% said they are finding it difficult to pay their energy bills and 57% are finding it difficult to cover the cost of travelling to work; 72% are cutting back on food.
