Hospital porters who accused directors of imposing “evil” rules during bathroom breaks and removing chairs to discourage short rests have voted in favor of the strike.

Staff at University Hospital Southampton (UHS) were told to ask permission to go to the toilet, with women having to ask for extra time if they were on their period, porters previously told BBC.

The first 24-hour strike by Unite members will take place on Thursday November 28, followed by strikes every Monday and Friday throughout December and January.

Southampton University Hospital has been contacted for comment.

Unite said “over 60 porters” who were members of the union had voted “overwhelmingly” in favor of the walkout.

“The strike will inevitably cause serious disruption to the hospital, but this is entirely the fault of management, they are well aware of the problems but have failed to take action to prioritize the safety and dignity of the staff and patients,” said Unite regional manager Kate Attwooll. .

Picket lines will take place each day of the strike, next to the main entrance to Southampton General Hospital.

Steve Harris, head of human resources at University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, previously said in October that he first became aware of the allegations in August.

He said he had “immediately commissioned an external study to examine the culture within the department.”

“No one in the organization is required to essentially tell their supervisor or manager when they are having their period,” he added.

“Our porters are allowed three official breaks during each shift and are actively encouraged to stay hydrated by using one of our hospitals’ water fountain facilities.”