Union fears these cuts will leave many children saying 'please sir, I want some more'.

GMB, the union for Kirklees Council workers,  says  plans to cut kitchen services in schools across the region are a recipe for disaster.

Members are being forced to reduce hours and increase productivity within schools.

Proposed changes will see a reduction of kitchen hours, removal of allowances for pupils on packed lunches and training time, and an increased meals-per-hour ratio.

GMB fears these cuts will leave many children saying 'please sir, I want some more'.

GMB members are outraged with the proposals which they see as a direct attack on some of the lowest paid workers who provide an essential service to children across Kirklees.  

GMB Organiser, Andrew Aldwinkle, said:

"These are ill thought-out proposals that will have an impact on the service which is being provided.

“Whilst we acknowledge the pressure on council budgets, GMB is opposed to these changes."

"Council workers provide an excellent service to the schools where they work, with many children relying on the meals provided.  

“This attack demonstrates a race to the bottom and will not only affect the quality of service but puts unnecessary pressure on workers.

“This is a predominantly female, low paid workforce now being asked to work harder with less time and less resources.  

“Kirklees Council officers have given no regard for workers' personal circumstances and some of the changes will have a direct impact upon pensions and in-work benefits."  

"GMB wants Kirklees Council to support these workers rather than to attack them.

“We call upon the support of parents and carers to get behind our campaign to ensure that their children are provided with school meals by workers who are looked after by their employer."