| UNISON members at Newtown Housing Options Centre have contacted us following a serious incident at New Aston House that resulted in three staff attending hospital.
This incident follows on previous concerns staff have raised about security in the building and the surrounding area. The HOC has currently been closed on a temporary basis to address some of the deficiencies the incident has highlighted, such as the lack of a working CCTV system. UNISON believes the HOC should not be reopened until the concerns of the staff working there have been addressed to their satisfaction. Other staff are also based in the building and the safety of all needs to addressed. In a climate when public dissatisfaction with Council Services is increasing ,due to the cutting of essential services, UNISON members are concerned that they may become the targets of public anger. In addition to a thorough investigation of the incidents at Newtown HOC and jointly agreed steps to improve security there should be a review of security arrangements at all Council Offices, particularly those that provide public access. If you have security concerns regarding your workplace or job role please email info@birminghamunison.co.uk
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Urgent need to address staff safety concerns
