Newham Suspends Connor, Save Libraries Union Rep 2026

Key Points

• Connor, a Unison steward at Newham Council working in libraries, was suspended from work on 18 February 2026 following his participation in the “Save Newham Libraries” public campaign.
• The Save Newham Libraries campaign was established as a community effort to oppose Newham Council’s proposed 50% slash to the libraries budget, which threatened closures, staff cuts, and service reductions for residents.
• Connor, a Newham resident and libraries union representative, attended and spoke at a public meeting organised by the campaign on 18 January 2026, addressing the devastating effects of the proposed cuts in his capacity as a Unison rep.
• In the week prior to Connor’s suspension, Newham Council conceded to the campaign’s demands regarding staff cuts, amounting to £470,000, as well as closures, demonstrating the campaign’s effectiveness and the Council’s perception of a genuine threat from activists like Connor.
• Connor is currently running for a democratic position within the union, and his suspension has interfered with union democracy.
• Campaigners are calling on Newham Council to reinstate Connor immediately and to implement measures ensuring no trade unionists face victimisation in the future.
• A demonstration organised by Save Newham Libraries is scheduled for 26 February 2026 at Stratford Town Hall at 6pm.

Newham (East London Times) February 24, 2026 – Connor, a dedicated Unison steward employed by Newham Council in its libraries service, faces suspension for his outspoken role in the community-led “Save Newham Libraries” campaign, sparking demands for his immediate reinstatement amid concerns over trade union rights and council budget decisions. The suspension, enacted on 18 February 2026, came shortly after Connor’s public advocacy against proposed cuts, highlighting tensions between local authority management and activist employees. Campaign supporters argue this action undermines union democracy, particularly as Connor campaigns for a key union position.

Who is Connor and What Led to His Suspension?

Connor serves as a Unison steward at Newham Council, specifically within the libraries department, and is himself a resident of the borough. His suspension from work occurred on 18 February 2026, directly linked to his active participation in the “Save Newham Libraries” public campaign. According to campaign statements, Connor attended a public meeting organised by the group on 18 January 2026, where he spoke in his official capacity as a Unison representative about the “devastating effects” of the council’s proposed libraries budget reductions.

The timing of the suspension underscores its connection to these events, as it followed Connor’s public engagement by just over a month. No additional details from council statements have emerged specifying alternative reasons for the action, leaving campaigners to assert it as a direct response to his advocacy.

What is the Save Newham Libraries Campaign?

The Save Newham Libraries initiative emerged as a grassroots community campaign aimed at halting Newham Council’s plan to slash the libraries budget by 50%. This drastic measure threatened widespread closures of library branches, significant staff cuts, and broad reductions in services available to local residents across the borough. Residents, library users, and union members rallied under the campaign to protect these vital community resources, which provide essential access to education, leisure, and support services.

As detailed in campaign materials, the group’s efforts focused on mobilising public opinion and pressuring councillors through meetings, petitions, and demonstrations. Connor’s involvement exemplifies the blend of resident activism and workplace representation driving the movement.

Why Did Newham Council Concede on Staff Cuts?

Just one week before Connor’s suspension, Newham Council backed down from key elements of its proposed cuts following pressure from the Save Newham Libraries campaign. Specifically, the council relented on staff reductions equivalent to £470,000 in savings, as well as averting planned closures. Campaign organisers view this concession as clear evidence of the initiative’s success and the genuine threat posed to council plans by activists such as Connor.

This reversal illustrates the power of community mobilisation in influencing local government decisions on public services. It also raises questions about the council’s subsequent response to individual participants like Connor, whose suspension appears to contradict the apparent validation of the campaign’s objectives.

How Has the Suspension Impacted Union Democracy?

Connor’s ongoing candidacy for a democratic position within Unison has been disrupted by his suspension, according to campaign statements. This interference is seen as a direct challenge to union democracy, potentially limiting his ability to campaign effectively or fulfil representative duties. As a libraries union rep, Connor’s role inherently involves advocating for members’ interests, including in public forums.

Supporters argue that punishing such activity sets a dangerous precedent, stifling workers’ voices at a time when public services face existential threats from budget constraints. The call extends beyond reinstatement to broader protections: Newham Council must take concrete steps to prevent the victimisation of trade unionists moving forward.

What Are the Demands for Reinstatement?

The core demand from campaigners is unequivocal: Newham Council must reinstate Connor to his position without delay. This action would rectify what they describe as an unjust suspension tied solely to legitimate union and community work. Furthermore, the council is urged to establish safeguards ensuring no future victimisation of trade union representatives occurs, fostering an environment where workers can engage in advocacy without fear of reprisal.

These demands frame the issue not merely as an individual grievance but as a systemic concern for labour rights within public sector employment in Newham.

When and Where is the Upcoming Demonstration?

A key mobilisation event is planned as part of the ongoing push: the Save Newham Libraries demonstration on 26 February 2026 at Stratford Town Hall, commencing at 6pm. This gathering aims to amplify calls for Connor’s reinstatement, further budget protections for libraries, and accountability from council leaders. Residents and supporters are encouraged to attend, building on the momentum that already forced partial concessions.

The choice of Stratford Town Hall underscores the local focus, placing pressure directly on decision-makers in the heart of Newham.

What Broader Context Surrounds Newham Libraries Cuts?

Newham Council’s proposed 50% budget reduction for libraries reflects wider fiscal pressures on local authorities amid national funding challenges. Libraries in the borough, like many across East London, serve diverse communities facing socioeconomic hardships, making service cuts particularly contentious. The Save Newham Libraries campaign positions these threats as detrimental to residents’ access to knowledge, skills training, and social cohesion.

Connor’s case emerges within this fraught landscape, where recent victories on staff and closures highlight activist leverage but also potential backlash against vocal participants. No official council commentary on the suspension has been issued in available statements, maintaining a one-sided narrative from campaign sources.

Why Does This Matter for Newham Residents?

For Newham’s population, the saga encapsulates battles over public services in an era of austerity. Libraries represent more than books; they are hubs for jobseekers, students, families, and the elderly. Connor’s suspension, if unchallenged, could deter others from similar advocacy, weakening community defences against further erosions.

The campaign’s success in securing £470,000 in spared staff costs demonstrates tangible benefits from collective action, reinforcing the stakes. As the 26 February demonstration approaches, attention turns to whether councillors will heed these voices or escalate tensions through sustained disciplinary measures.

How Can the Public Support the Cause?

Residents are urged to join the 26 February event at Stratford Town Hall, contact councillors directly, and amplify the reinstatement call via social media and local forums. Petitioning Unison for solidarity and monitoring council meetings offer additional avenues. This multifaceted approach mirrors the campaign’s earlier tactics that yielded concessions.

Neutral observers note the absence of counter-statements from Newham Council, which could clarify the suspension’s basis—be it performance, conduct, or otherwise—potentially de-escalating the dispute.