All bets are off inLadbrokes strike

Oct 6 2008 by Richard Down, Liverpool Daily Post

HUNDREDS of workers hung up their receivers at a major betting call centre in Liverpool this weekend.

The Union of Shop, Distribution and Allied Workers (Usdaw) members at the Ladbrokes call centre site, in Aintree, held a 24-hour strike yesterday.

Pickets gathered outside on one of the busiest betting days in the horse racing calendar after the company maintained a below-inflation pay offer of 3%.

It was the second one-day action this year, and saw staff come out from 5am on Sunday until 5am today. This meant many phone lines were unavailable to take bets for a showcase race in France – the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe.

Usdaw’s area organiser Michelle Owens said: “Staff on site are furious the company has not increased its 3% pay offer at a time when inflation is nearer 5%.

“This is the second 24-hour strike, the first was on August 23 and was very well supported. Industrial action is a last resort for our members.

“Despite meetings with senior management and ACAS the company have refused to improve the offer. Our members are struggling to cope with higher fuel and food bills and deserve better from the company.

“While we are keen to resolve this dispute, everything hinges on the company’s willingness to make an improved offer.”

Usdaw announced the first strike in August just days after Ladbrokes announced their profits, excluding “high roller” bets, had risen 13% in the first quarter.

RACING: PAGES 26-27

richarddown