UCL Cleaners Strike for the London Living Wage
On 21 April 2017, cleaners at University College London (UCL) took strike action demanding the London Living Wage, challenging low pay and fighting for fair treatment, dignity and respect at work.
On 21 April 2017, cleaners at University College London (UCL) took strike action demanding the London Living Wage.
The dispute centred on the wages paid to cleaning staff at the university, whose earnings fell short of the rate calculated to reflect the cost of living in the capital.
Why the London Living Wage Mattered
Unlike the statutory minimum wage, the London Living Wage is calculated with reference to the cost of everyday essentials, including housing, transport and food.
For cleaners working in central London, the difference between these rates could have a significant impact on their ability to meet basic expenses.
The workers' demand therefore went beyond a routine pay increase. They were calling for a wage that recognised the financial realities of living and working in London.
21 April 2017: Cleaners Take Strike Action
Having organised around their demand, cleaners took industrial action on 21 April 2017.
The strike represented an escalation of the dispute, moving beyond workplace concerns to a collective withdrawal of labour.
By taking this step, workers demonstrated their willingness to challenge their pay arrangements through organised industrial action and brought their demands into public view.
The Campaign's Place in CAIWU's History
The UCL dispute forms part of CAIWU's early history, following the union's establishment in 2016.
It illustrates how cleaners used collective organisation to challenge pay arrangements within a major London institution.
Preserving the history of campaigns such as this helps document the struggles that shaped CAIWU and the contribution of members who organised to improve their working lives.
The demand was clear: cleaners working in London should receive the London Living Wage.
Note to editors:
CAIWU is a representative trade union for cleaners and allied independent workers, advocating for fair labour practices and workers' rights. The general secretary is Alberto Durango. For more information, please contact:
William Santin
CAIWU Communications admin
Cleaners and Allied Independent Workers Union
88 Fleet Street, London EC4Y 1DH
