EXCLUSIVE: Glasgow bin workers starting shift on empty bellies
Refuse collectors claim they are even struggling to pay the bus fare to work.
Glasgow bin workers are exclusively telling Clyde News they are starting the day on an empty stomach as the cost of living crisis continues.
George McGowan works twelve hour days and can usually walk 10 or 15 miles each shift.
He said: "I am choosing between paying for my lunches or taking the kids for a day out.
"It is horrible having to make these decisions when I cannot afford both of those things."
"He does not have the bus fare to get into work next week"
The refuse worker claims his colleagues are also living in dire situations and cannot make ends meet.
He added: "Some of them are going to food banks which is degrading.
"There was a young boy today who spoke to the supervisor because he does not have the bus fare to get into work next week.
"We are full time workers and we are living below the breadline.
"It is really starting to impact my mental health and I have already suffered from depression for years."
"I had to share sandwiches with my colleague"
George claims he is relying on financial support from his parents to give his three children a hot meal at night.
"I find it difficult to clothe my kids, put food on the table and pay the rent, but if I am struggling then the situation is much worse for others who don't have the support I do.
"I brought sandwiches to work today and I had to share them with my colleague because he didn't have any lunch.
"It is ridiculous that in this day and age somebody is having to feed the person they work with."
Chris Mitchell from GMB Scotland said: "This work force cannot afford nutritious food because of the current cost of living crisis and they are eating junk.
"Emptying bins is a taxing job and involves lifting and carrying.
"If people don't have the correct nutrients then that can do significant damage to their bodies.
"I know of people who are off work sick with muscular problems because they are not eating the right food and are walking for miles during the day.
"This is a really sad state of affairs."
A spokesman Glasgow City Council said: “We are a living wage employer but we fully recognise the current pressure on the cost of living.
“The most recent COSLA pay agreement for all local authority staff was weighted in favour of lower paid staff and national negotiations for this year’s award are underway.
“Mental health support is available through the council if our member of staff is able to reach out for help.”
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