Halton teachers join hundreds in street rally to fight for better pay

NEU members stood up to the picket line outside schools in Runcorn and Widnes this morning before travelling to the rally in Liverpool to join the crowds of teachers striking for better pay.

Teachers were seen striking outside of secondary schools in the area including OBA and The Heath in Runcorn and OCA in Widnes.

Union member and representative for the area, Deborah Gwynn described the ‘brilliant’ scenes outside of The Heath, where banners were held, and supporters beeped in solidarity.

“Thousands of strikers marched in Liverpool today to protest at below inflation pay rises and lack of funding for public services,” She said.

“Many people were striking for the first time and feel they have no alternative. 

Halton teachers stand at the picket line in protest of better pay (Image: Newsquest)

Deborah, who works in secondary education, highlighted the importance that teachers receive a funded pay rise by the government which isn’t expected to stretch already tight education budgets.

Anger has built over more than a decade, as in the last 13 years the union has stated that teachers pay has ‘decreased in real terms by 23%’.

“If the Government doesn’t take notice and engage in meaningful talks then there will be more strikes. 

“NEU members in the Northwest are due to strike again on 28 February.”