Protesters Demand Fair Maternity Pay for Lambeth Leisure Staff

A group of parents and trade union members protested outside Lambeth Town Hall in Brixton on November 24, 2023, advocating for improved maternity pay for staff working in local leisure centres. The demonstration was sparked by claims that the Labour-run council has employed “fake casual” contracts to deny employees essential maternity benefits.

Trade unions, particularly Lambeth Unison, have alleged that staff recently transferred from the contractor GLL have been retained on contracts that classify them as “workers” rather than “employees.” This classification reportedly strips them of many employment rights, including access to Occupational Maternity Pay.

A spokesperson for Lambeth Council explained that prior to the transition to a council-run service, known as Active Lambeth, the staffing structure included both permanent and casual roles. They indicated that this approach is standard within the leisure industry. Currently, the council is restructuring its staffing to introduce more permanent positions, allowing leisure staff to transition to council terms and conditions. The spokesperson noted that some casual roles would remain available for those needing flexible work arrangements.

One worker, who wished to remain anonymous, shared her disappointment after learning she would only receive Statutory Maternity Pay despite working full-time at the leisure centre since 2017. This situation highlights the precarious nature of employment under casual contracts, particularly for those expecting a child.

Ruth Cashman, a representative from Lambeth Unison, stated, “Lambeth Council is keeping council employees in our leisure centres on insecure contracts to avoid paying for basic workplace rights. No one should be forced to live in poverty, just because they have children.”

Local mother Bethany Bannachie, who uses the leisure centre facilities, expressed her disbelief at the situation. “It felt very close to home to think that the services that we are benefiting from are not treating parents well,” she remarked. Bannachie emphasized the emotional toll of returning to work after maternity leave, especially for those with inadequate support.

Another local resident, Kelly Rogers, underscored the critical nature of maternity leave, saying, “I can’t imagine what it’s like to be having a baby and be worried about putting food on the table, which obviously happens to so many people in Brixton and in Lambeth and across the country.”

Green councillor Paul Valentine, who participated in the protest, described the council’s actions as discriminatory. “We win these battles by all coming together,” he said. “Although it might not directly affect me, I want to be here to show support. We might be struggling financially in the council, but there comes a point where you go, ‘no, that’s workers’ rights and that’s not acceptable.'”

The protest reflects ongoing concerns regarding employment conditions for workers in Lambeth, particularly those in the leisure sector. As the council continues its restructuring efforts, the outcome of these negotiations will be crucial in determining the future of maternity pay and workers’ rights in the area.