Strike action suspended at British Museum

More than 150 PCS members in the British Museum’s visitor services and security teams had been set for a six-day strike, starting tomorrow (11 July), in a dispute over the government’s promised £1,500 cost-of-living payment, fair pay, pensions justice, job security and redundancy terms.

In a recent development, the Museum presented PCS with an offer that addresses the most pressing concerns of its members. This comes after a period of intense negotiations between PCS and the British Museum. PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka commented:

“Strike action is always considered a last resort. The decision to suspend the strike demonstrates PCS' willingness to engage in dialogue when reasonable offers are made by employers. I applaud the dedication and perseverance of the representatives and members at the British Museum branch, who fought tirelessly for this outcome through weeks of strike action and two successful ballots.” 

Although the offer falls short of meeting the union's entire claim, it includes significant concessions that resolve the most pressing concerns raised by members. Notably, the offer features:

• a cost-of-living payment exceeding £1,500 for most members
• a confirmation that all staff will receive at least the London Living Wage (LLW), and
• a percentage increase for all other staff beyond the civil service pay remit guidance.

The overall award, including both consolidated and non-consolidated elements, amounts to approximately 14% for the lowest-paid members of PCS. 

This offer and suspension of the strike action marks a potential turning point in the dispute between PCS and the British Museum, as both parties aim to reach a mutually agreeable resolution. Further discussions will take place in the coming days, with the hope of addressing remaining concerns and finalising an agreement that meets the needs of PCS members.