Striking and the law (and maybe some veiled threats)!

[Notshortnottall]

My mother is a teacher and received this letter today regarding the public sector strike on 30th November.

Putting aside opinions on the rights and wrongs, and who is and isn't to blame, I'd be grateful for some advice on the content of this as it's really shook her up. She's a quiet person who just wants to get on with her job but at the same time wants to protect what she's worked 45 years for.

Even I find this letter quite threatening and I like to think I'm made of tough stuff!





So a few questions if I may:

• Do you have to be in a recognised trade union to go on strike?

• Is there anything in the content of this letter which could be considered threatening or unlawful?

• Her school is small and rural with approx. 8 staff. She notified them she was intending to retire in the forthcoming year. There is a line in the letter which states "This will particularly affect employees who may retire within the next 12 months." My mum is the only person over 60 working there.

Very grateful for any response with the accompanying legalese if possible and would be grateful if people could leave their personal opinions to one side. I'm happy to compensate anyone for their time.

Cheers

[Notshortnottall]

Munter said:

Sounds to me like all they have done is state the facts. Making sure everybody knows the consequences of their actions.

One point though. The person who chose the font is an utter and should be told as much. This is an important letter. The font is not appropriate.

Fair enough - any thoughts on my points above though?

[Notshortnottall]

Must be just me then

Am I not correct in saying that you do not have to be in a trade union in order to strike though?

I appreciate that the facts are only being stated, but the whole tone of the letter seems very threatening to me however maybe that's just me being paranoid and I need to take my foil hat off!

[Notshortnottall]

hyperblue said:

If you're not in a union, how can you go on strike? You're just not turning up for work.

True, but I know where I work that they've issued guidance stating anyone who strikes and isn't in a union will be treated the same as someone who is, as its a recognised strike.

I'm sure there's plenty of people who are intent on crossing the line, but actually bail out of doing it when confronted with a picket.

Maybe that's just local policy then.

[Notshortnottall]

anonymous said:

[redacted]

Fair enough. Happy to accept it's a mis-interpretation on my part then.

Just wanted some clarification as I was unsure.

Thanks

[Notshortnottall]

hornetrider said:

Time to wind your neck in I think! All looks normal to me.

Fair enough - did just state I was looking for clarity!

Thanks to all who've responded.