Pay more and pay faster, unions say
The three main unions representing local government workers – the GMB, UNISON and Unite – have called for a larger and faster pay rise.
The unions have been told that a 2021/22 rise will not be considered until after the local elections on 6 May, despite staff being due a wage increase from 1 April. In response they have jointly written to local government employers, demanding an explanation for the delay and pointing out that all councils already know their budgets for the financial year ahead.
The unions have submitted a pay claim for a rise of at least 10% for all council and school support employees in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
UNISON head of local government Jon Richards said: “There’s no reason for employers to delay. Councils know their budgets so staff who’ve been through the mill over the past year shouldn’t be left waiting months for a wage rise.”