Tower Hamlets Leisure Centre Staff Threaten Strike Over Safety Concerns
Staff at Tower Hamlets Council's leisure centres are balloting for industrial action, including potential strikes, over what they describe as unsafe working practices and inadequate employment conditions. The Unite union, representing lifeguards and other workers, has raised grave concerns about public and staff safety, alleging dangerously understaffed sites and excessive hours since the council brought leisure services back under its control in May 2024.
Contract Disputes and Safety Issues
According to a letter sent to Tower Hamlets mayor Lutur Rahman and chief executive Stephen Halsey on January 28, Unite officials claim that the majority of workers remain without secure contracts. Large groups, including swim teachers and fitness instructors, reportedly still have no contracts at all. This follows the council's takeover from private operator Greenwich Leisure Ltd (GLL), where staff were transferred but many on zero-hour contracts were promised council terms and conditions.
The union alleges that understaffing has led to inadequate supervision and workers being pushed into high-risk roles without proper training or support. Last year, the council had to close or cancel several swimming sessions after temporarily losing access to agency workers, highlighting staffing vulnerabilities.
Council Response and Recruitment Efforts
Tower Hamlets Council asserts that safety is its priority and has taken steps to address the issues. A council spokesperson stated that they have worked closely with staff and trade unions to ensure fair and improved terms and conditions. The council reports offering permanent contracts to casual workers wherever possible, with a majority of staff now on permanent council contracts, though the process was delayed by the dispute with Unite.
To bolster staffing, the council has recruited 18 new lifeguards and expects to fill remaining vacancies soon. They are also monitoring working patterns to prevent staff from feeling pressured to take on extra hours and encourage raising any concerns. Jahur Ali, the town hall's director of culture, noted that changing the culture at leisure centres is like turning a tanker, as people had been working in certain ways for years.
Ongoing Ballot and Future Implications
The strike ballot, set to end on February 25, could lead to significant disruptions at leisure centres if industrial action proceeds. The council emphasizes its commitment to supporting staff, stabilizing the service, and delivering a reliable, high-quality offer for residents. However, Unite's demands for secure contracts and safer working conditions remain unresolved, putting the spotlight on the council's management of in-house services.
As the situation develops, both sides continue negotiations, with the outcome potentially setting a precedent for other councils managing similar transitions from private to public operation of leisure facilities.
