OMICRON
The emergence of the Omicron variant has implications for us all and we will have to wait 3 weeks to find out more about its transmissibility and effect. Please click here to view an information sheet about safety measures to keep support staff safe in schools.
VENTILATION
Ventilation is the most effective way of reducing the risk of transmission and GMB London would urge all members to ensure they have seen the ventilation risk assessment for their classroom or workspace. There should be risk assessments for all classrooms and these should include the levels of ventilation and detail how good ventilation is going to be achieved and maintained. The minimum working temperature in schools is 16-18 degrees and if windows are to be kept open, the heating must be on. Control measures such as social distancing, smaller class sizes and bubbles may need to be reintroduced if there is inadequate ventilation. GMB London would advise that members should avoid working in rooms that are poorly ventilated. If you have any questions or concerns, you can raise these with your local Branch or contact schoolsteamlondon@gmb.org.uk.
NJC INDICATIVE BALLOT FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT & SCHOOLS WORKERS
The NJC indicative ballot is entering the final week and if you have not yet voted on what you would like to happen next, please make sure you vote before Monday 13th December at 12 noon. The National Employers offer of 1.75% is 1% less than last year and does not recognise the effort and work of support staff in keeping schools open throughout the pandemic. At a time when fuel bills are higher than ever and the cost of food and petrol is increasing it is unfair to offer a real-terms pay cut to hardworking and dedicated staff.
As always, if there are any changes to DfE guidance GMB London will be in touch with an update. In the meantime, if you have any colleagues who are not in a Trade Union they can join GMB online at www.gmb.org.uk/join. Together we are stronger and together we can make a difference.
Stay safe.
Best wishes
Lisa Bangs
GMB London Region Organiser, Schools & Academies
Posted: 6th December 2021