Stand up for what you believe in.

There's a lot of issues around going on strike, but on the 30th many public sector workers are standing up and saying "we don't think this is right, and we feel we're not being listened to". Now some might say that it's too late, and over the wrong issues, or that if not careful there's a lot of people looking for jobs and now is a time to be thankful that you do have work. They may, in same ways, be right.

The sticking point should have been - never mind our pensions, perks and increasing workload without pay increases. The point should have always been that these jobs should be paid accordingly with just reward and recognition in the first place, and then long term job security, perks, pensions and all the other 'benefits' that balance out a public sector role wouldn't be needed.

Having been through two councils, it's funny that starting my first job I was congratulated on getting in on a good thing, once one council employs you you're seen as a safe bet by others so getting work is easier, there're some great schemes to take advantage of... And then about five years later my colleagues were jokingly calling me "first rat" (as in, from the sinking ship) and congratulating me on a job in the private sector. I loved the people I worked with, appreciated the rocks and hard places my managers were sometimes stuck between and how they had to manage them, took full advantage of training and courses and support and was (usually) proud to represent my local council.

But come Wednesday, I'll be mentally stood at the front gate with a brew and a handful of leaflets.