DWP and benefits cut as workers go on strike today

Jobcentre security guards are to launch a 24-hour strike in a pay dispute. The GMB said more than 1,000 of its members employed by G4S will walk from midnight on Tuesday, with further walkouts planned for later in the month.

The union said a survey of its members found four out of five had been victims of workplace abuse, including being attacked by dogs and punched by members of the public. Many described daily verbal abuse, including threats to their families, racist abuse and death threats.

Other strikes will take place on May 13, 20, 28 and 29. Eamon O’Hearn, GMB national officer, said: “G4S and the Department for Work and Pensions are happy to let guards go on the minimum wage.

“However, these shocking survey results bring home the terrifying pressure these guards are working under. It’s not good enough – and for the first time the watchdogs are standing together to do something about it.”

A G4S spokesman said: “We are disappointed that the GMB has refused to accept our offer of improved pay to its members.

“We continue to try to reach an amicable settlement and have implemented contingency plans to minimize disruption to our customers.”

The DWP has previously said some jobcentres may have to close during the strikes.