The GMB union has accused Sunderland City Council of using an arm’s length organisation to underpay care workers and keep them out of a full pension scheme.

The union says the council has used Sunderland Care and Support, which it wholly owns, to put workers on lower grades than directly employed council workers as well as deny access to the Tyne & Wear Pension Fund.

Kim Inglis, Sunderland GMB rep, said: “Sunderland Council have been underpaying women care workers for years, and we are determined to end this injustice.  

“As a care worker, me and my colleagues do vital work supporting vulnerable people. I’m proud to be leading this equal pay campaign and encourage all women who work for Sunderland Care and Support to join the GMB pay claim. 

“We are owed wages for years of work. Our work isn’t worth less than men in comparable roles. 

“I ask the people of Sunderland to support our campaign by standing with us, sign our petition, talk to your councillors, and write to your MP. Help us win pay justice.” 

A Sunderland City Council spokesperson said: “We can confirm we have been contacted by the GMB which says it has concerns about terms and conditions for staff working with Sunderland Care and Support.

“While we have yet to see full and further details on those concerns, we are very happy to sit down and talk through these matters and seek a resolution.”