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Best of 2024…so far: ‘They were dying, and they’d not had their money’: Britain’s multibillion-pound equal pay scandal
Aug 16, 2024
Samira Shackle, an accomplished journalist known for her insightful reporting on social issues, delves into Britain's multibillion-pound equal pay scandal. She discusses the historical injustices faced by female care workers in Glasgow who fought for fair wages. The podcast explores personal stories of these women, the challenges of outsourcing, and the significant legal battles that ensued. Shackle highlights the ongoing legacy of advocacy amidst financial strains on local councils, emphasizing the importance of achieving true gender equality.
42:37
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Quick takeaways
- The financial struggles of British councils, exacerbated by budget cuts, highlight a systemic issue affecting local services nationwide.
- Frances Stojkowicz's activism and the resulting strike in Glasgow underscored the urgent need for addressing gender wage disparities in the care sector.
Deep dives
The Financial Struggles of Councils in Britain
Many city councils in Britain are facing severe financial dilemmas, with nearly one in ten expected to go bankrupt due to years of budget cuts. The financial struggles stem largely from severe funding reductions imposed under Conservative governments, which cut grants to local councils by 40% from 2009 to 2019. As demand for local services continues to climb, the combination of rising service needs and dwindling funds has created a precarious situation for councils. This precariousness has repercussions on various community services, highlighting a systemic issue that affects councils nationwide.
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