The first-ever strike by Oxfam staff has been suspended after the charity proposed an “improved pay deal.”
Unite the union confirmed the strikes planned for December 14 to 17 have now been paused for members to vote on the revised offer.
Approximately 500 at the charity launched a 17-day strike last week, seen as the first in its 81-year history.
Read More: Oxfam Strikes Start As Workers Turn Down Pay Offer
The action affected offices and 200 Oxfam shops, prompting talks between Oxfam and Unite at conciliation service ACAS.
An Oxfam spokesperson said: “We welcome the progress made during talks last week and are pleased that the strike action has been suspended.”
However, Unite warns strike action will resume on December 20 if the offer is rejected.
Additional strikes were slated for December 21 to 31, potentially impacting Oxfam’s earnings during the critical Christmas trading period.
Read More: Oxfam Staff To Hold 17-Day Strike Over Pay
Unite regional coordinating officer Jamie Major said: “Unite has been clear from the outset that this dispute could and should be resolved through negotiations.
“Following talks on Friday, an improved offer was made and therefore Unite has suspended action to allow its members to be balloted on the proposed deal.”
Average wages at Oxfam declined by 21 percent in real terms since 2018
Unite said last month average wages at Oxfam had declined by 21 percent in real terms since 2018.
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The union claimed it led to “poverty pay” and financial challenges for some staff.
Last Friday, an Oxfam spokesperson said the charity understands the challenges among colleagues due to the rising cost of living.
They added: “We are proud to be a Real Living Wage employer and are doing what we can to address colleagues’ concerns within the limits of the resources we have available.”
About three-quarters of Oxfam’s 541 shops remained open despite last week’s strike.
