Carlisle support services strike continues for second day on Northern contract

Carlisle support services strike continues for second day on Northern contract

8 October 2025

RMT Press Office:

RMT members working for Carlisle Support Services on the Northern Trains’ revenue and gateline contract are taking their second day of strike action today.

The strike follows widespread reports of bullying and harassment by managers, including attempts to pressure staff into breaking the strike, denying extra hours to union members, and forcing redeployments at short notice to remote locations.

RMT General Secretary Eddie Dempsey said: “Carlisle bosses think they can intimidate staff into silence instead of negotiating a fair deal.

"Our members have shown tremendous courage and unity by standing firm on the picket line for a second day and I congratulate them for that.

“All they are asking for is respect, fair pay and decent conditions that private contractor Carlisle could easily fulfil.

“Management needs to come back with a serious offer because our members will not be bullied or worn down and are prepared to escalate matters if necessary.

“This dispute highlights again why outsourcing has to end. The government must deliver on its promise to bring these contracts back in house and put all rail workers into secure, directly employed jobs.”

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Tagged with: RMT, Eddie Dempsey, Carlisle Support Services, Northern Trains