Health and safety problems show why bus workers are on strike

A Unite survey of nearly 200 striking First Manchester bus drivers found that, while company profits soared to £227 million in 2022, drivers are suffering low pay, excessive hours, abuse and lack of access to toilets. More than two thirds said they had been verbally abused in the last two years and 16% had also been physically assaulted. Nearly a quarter said they never have adequate access to a toilet and around a third work between 40 and 50 hours a week, with 14% working more than 50 hours. Working long hours has affected their physical (30%) and mental health (30%), as well as their relationships and family life (36%). More than 80% reported feeling very tired, with 74% having made errors while driving as a result. A fifth of drivers have had to stop driving because of excessive tiredness. Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said the workers work hard and should be paid properly and First could afford the pay deal they are asking for.