A union spokesperson said workers lacked kit such as restraints, had inadequate first aid and no risk assessments – which they claimed had led to assaults on staff by passengers and incidents involving passengers harming one another.
They said it was “completely unacceptable” that funding cuts were putting staff at risk and affecting the lives of those who rely on the service.
Eighty staff members, including those who provide passenger assistance and office support, would be taking part in the strike, the union added.
Walk outs are due to take place on 9, 16, 23 and 24 and 29 and 30 January and 4 to 6, 11 to 13, 17 to 20 and 24 to 27 February.
The union said other issues included administrative errors, children missing school because of a lack of cover and low staff morale.
Unite regional officer Chris Muscroft said: “Strike action is a last resort for our members but these serious problems are not being addressed and they have no choice but to make their voices heard to protect themselves, their colleagues and those using the service.”