Staff members at the mental health charity Second Step in Bristol are set to engage in a four-day strike, commencing on January 12, 2026. A total of 112 employees will walk out in a demonstration aimed at improving working conditions and pay.
In light of the impending strike, Second Step has implemented contingency plans to minimize disruption to its services. The charity, located on Pennywell Road, confirmed that they are committed to ensuring support remains available for clients during this period. A spokesperson stated, “While we respect the right of union members to take lawful industrial action and remain committed to constructive conversations with Unison, our main priority remains maintaining safe, continuous support for the people who rely on our services every day.”
Management at Second Step emphasized that team managers will assist those continuing to work during the strike. This support aims to ensure that essential services are not significantly interrupted as staff members demonstrate their concerns.
Tim Roberts, the regional secretary for Unison in the South West, expressed the workers’ desire to focus on their mission of helping individuals facing mental health challenges. He stated, “Workers want to focus on supporting people experiencing mental health difficulties, not worrying about how they will pay their bills.” This sentiment reflects the broader concerns among staff regarding their working conditions.
Second Step collaborates with the NHS and other organizations to deliver a range of mental health services. The charity has expressed gratitude towards its clients for their understanding during this period of industrial action. As the strike unfolds, the organization remains hopeful for constructive dialogues that could lead to resolutions beneficial for both employees and the clients they serve.
The situation at Second Step highlights ongoing challenges within the mental health sector, where staff are increasingly vocal about the need for better support and compensation. The outcome of this strike could have significant implications not only for the employees involved but also for the continuity of care provided to those reliant on mental health services.
