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LNER drivers to strike over bullying and work culture

On 15 August, Aslef recommended rail drivers accept a pay offer following a two-year pay dispute

LNER drivers have threatened fresh strikes over a culture of bullying and poor working conditions, Sky News reported on 18 August.

The drivers, who are members of the Aslef rail union, allege that bosses have subjected employees to bullying and claimed LNER management have conducted "persistent breaking" of agreements.

The strikes announcement followed Aslef recommending on 15 August that its members, including LNER drivers, to accept a pay offer by the government following a two-year dispute.

The announcement showed that employers should consider what additional factors could contribute to employee satisfaction following strikes, commented Natasha Kearslake, director of HR consultancy Organic P&O Solutions.


Read more: Samsung union announces first strike over pay


Speaking to HR magazine, she said: “The current situation with LNER highlights the complex nature of industrial relations, where resolving one issue doesn't suddenly create workplace harmony. 

“It's also a reminder that pay isn't the only factor when it comes to employee satisfaction.”

HR should review the culture at their organisation following threats of strikes, commented Nicholas Williams, HR M&A transactions leader at consultancy EY Parthenon.

“HR should operate empathetically, proactively and strategically when responding to threats of strikes by unions,” he told HR magazine.

“We should step back and assess the situation and activate a prompt internal review into any validity of negative culture claims being raised by the unions.”


Read more: Punishing strikers violates human rights, Supreme Court rules


Communicating with employees and unions is also important amid strike negotiations, Williams added.

He said: “Being transparent with your workforce and acknowledging the threat of strikes and starting discussions is important for transparency and trust.

“Engaging in discussions with union leadership would be beneficial to discuss any changes in culture required for the future, whilst signposting and aligning collaboratively on the organisations current vision, mission and values. 

“Set up a joint working group between organisational leadership teams, HR and unions with a mandate to create and measure a jointly created action plan that captures short-term improvements and long-term culture improvement initiatives.”