Bristol Charity Second Step Faces Four-Day Strike by Staff

Staff members at the mental health charity Second Step in Bristol are set to strike for four days, starting January 12, 2026. A total of 112 workers will walk out to demand better support and working conditions. This action comes as the charity implements contingency plans to minimize disruption to its services.

In a statement, a spokesperson for Second Step, which is located on Pennywell Road, acknowledged the lawful right of union members to engage in industrial action. They emphasized the charity’s commitment to maintaining safe and continuous support for clients who depend on their services, while also expressing a desire for constructive dialogue with Unison, the union representing the staff.

To ensure ongoing support during the strike, team managers will assist the remaining employees. The strike will extend over several days, affecting services on both January 12 and 13, as well as January 18 and 19.

Tim Roberts, regional secretary for Unison in the South West, highlighted the motivation behind the strike. “Workers want to focus on supporting people experiencing mental health difficulties, not worrying about how they will pay their bills,” he stated. This sentiment reflects the broader concerns among staff regarding their working conditions and financial stability.

Second Step collaborates with the NHS and other organizations to provide a range of mental health services. The charity has expressed gratitude to its clients for their understanding during this period of industrial action.

As the situation unfolds, both management and union representatives will be closely monitoring the impact of the strike on services and the well-being of staff and clients alike.