WILKO workers have asked bosses for more hours as part of this year’s pay review, general union GMB revealed today.

Unionised staff at London and the East of England branches will ask for more work hours per week and more full-time roles.

GMB regional organiser Keith Dixon said that he was “humbled” to receive letters from members about how lack of work and pay was affecting their lives.

He said: “These letters included stories of members who have pleaded with the company for extra hours so that they can buy food, buy Christmas presents for their children and pay for electricity at home.

“In addition to these, there were also a number of letters which praised Wilko and fellow workers upon the way in which they treat and engage with their team members in work.

“Retail pay has for many years been low compared with equivalent roles in other industries. This includes similar roles within distribution depots.

“Retail has also tried to move towards short contracted shifts instead of full-time roles.”

Sixty per cent of the members took part in a consultation over what matters should be included on the pay review agenda. The feedback from members is being sent to the national negotiators.