Union members take to Rugby town centre to call for Amazon workers to 'blow the whistle'

Campaigners unfurl the banner outside the library. Photo courtesy of Unite.

Members of the Unite union took to the steps outside Rugby Library on Wednesday, April 14, to call for a 'new deal for Amazon workers'.

The campaigners also said they were there to make Amazon workers in the town aware that they can call a special hotline to 'blow the whistle' on any poor treatment.

A spokesperson said: "The union has begun a digital Facebook advertising campaign to ensure Amazon workers know that they can confidentially raise issues of concern free from reprisals by calling 08000 141 461 or visiting the actiononamazon.org/hotline.

"Amazon has a fulfilment centre at Rugby Gateway. It is part of a huge network of warehouse space across the country.

"Amazon occupies an astonishing third of all warehouse space in the UK.

"Workers toil around the clock to get the essentials delivered to homes during the current health crisis.

"Amazon's total net sales attributable to the UK increased from $14.5 billion in 2018 to $26.5 billion in 2020 - that's an increase of 82 per cent.

"But Amazon strongly resists attempts by workers to gain a collective voice of their own."

Unite executive officer Sharon Graham said: “Calls are growing for a new deal for Amazon workers. Action on Amazon campaigners will be at World Rugby Hall of Fame to spread the word that Amazon workers at the BHX5 site in Rugby can contact us confidentially by calling Unite's hotline.

“This corporate giant has made billions off the backs of workers. Amazon resists any attempts by workers to gain a collective voice of their own. It is now time that workers have a voice.”