Dear David

I write appealing to you as Chief Executive of Sanctuary Housing Group to reverse your decision to cut the salaries of Sanctuary Supported Living (SSL) staff, in some cases by around one third. I was horrified to learn that these staff are now being threatened with potential dismissal and re-engagement in order for Sanctuary to impose the new contracts.

The SSL staff provide support and assistance to some of the most vulnerable groups in our society - the elderly and those with mental health issues. Recruiting and retaining high quality staff is essential for the effective performance of this vital service. Cutting their salaries to the market baseline is surely contrary to these aims, and will mean that even the most experienced and committed workers are forced to consider alternative employment.

The approach taken to SSL workers also contradicts that taken toward the salaries for the Sanctuary executive. As you will be aware, yours is one of the highest salaries in the sector. I am sure your board would argue that such salaries are intended to attract the highest calibre candidates, but the same principle should surely apply to all roles across SHG.

You will also be aware that there is no economic argument for these cuts. SHG has repeatedly posted record surpluses, and last year achieved a surplus £52.7 million. This includes a surplus generated from the SSL service but instead of rewarding staff with a pay rise, they are facing a financial penalty.

Sanctuary's action is set to disrupt the delivery of a service that many people rely on, and its implementation is likely to cause considerable reputational damage to the organisation. I therefore urge you to reconsider, and to meet with Unite the Union to discuss union representation for the Sanctuary workers who wish it.

Yours