“There was a ‘fine balance’ between improving absence rates ‘but not at the cost of people feeling that they’re coming to work when they shouldn’t be,'” said Dr Sam Phillips, a key figure at Transport for London (TfL). This statement highlights the ongoing challenges TfL faces in managing employee health and attendance.
TfL is currently stepping up efforts to cut employee absence as part of a government initiative aimed at keeping people in work. The overall sickness rate at TfL stands at 6.3%, accounting for nearly 418,885 sick days. To address this, TfL has joined the Keep Britain Working Review, focusing on mental health support.
However, the situation is complicated by an impending strike called by the RMT union. Just under half of London’s tube drivers are in the RMT union and are expected to participate in the strike. This strike will occur in two 24-hour tranches starting from midday on Tuesday and Thursday.
Some tube lines—including the Piccadilly, Waterloo & City, and Circle lines—are expected to have no service during these strike periods. The RMT union’s call for action comes amid tensions over proposed changes to working conditions.
TfL’s proposals for a voluntary four-day week have garnered support from the Aslef drivers’ union but face opposition from the RMT. Eddie Dempsey, an RMT representative, criticized TfL’s approach: “The approach of TfL is not one which leads to industrial peace and will infuriate our members who want to see a negotiated settlement to this avoidable dispute.”
This backdrop of labor unrest follows the last tube strike in September 2025. The current strikes highlight ongoing dissatisfaction among workers regarding their conditions and management strategies.
In response to rising tensions, TfL’s chief operating officer Claire Mann stated, “Everyone has the right to travel around London without facing discrimination, and we stand united against hate in all its forms.” This statement underscores TfL’s commitment to creating a safe environment for both employees and commuters.
The next steps remain unclear as both sides appear entrenched in their positions. Details remain unconfirmed about any potential negotiations that may take place before the strike dates.
