Staff at the V&A's Storehouse site in east London have voted overwhelmingly to strike, citing inadequate toilet and hydration breaks. This action will see them join staff across other V&A sites in London who also voted for industrial action on Wednesday.
The dispute at the Storehouse, which opened in May 2025, centres on collections access officers who reportedly lack sufficient time for breaks during their shifts. Prospect, the trade union, is calling for two paid breaks daily, stating that staff require time to use facilities and hydrate due to what it describes as a demanding schedule.
The wider industrial action across V&A London sites is focused on pay, working conditions, and the museum's decision not to seek living wage accreditation. Prospect is seeking a minimum 4% pay rise for staff earning above the living wage, time-and-a-half for bank holiday work, and improved food provision at V&A East sites.
At the V&A Storehouse, 100% of voting members backed strike action, with a turnout of nearly 88%. Across all V&A sites, 83% voted for strike action on an 82% turnout. The V&A has been approached for comment, and previously stated that all staff have access to water, toilet facilities, and regular breaks.