Unions condemn derisory pay offer

Unions representing 750,000 council and school support staff across England, Wales and Northern Ireland have criticised the 1.5% pay offer made by the Local Government Association.

The GMB, Unite and UNISON unions had submitted a joint pay claim to the local government employers in February for a 10% pay rise to be payable from 1 April 2021.

The unions say the joint claim represents a decent wage rise that is both necessary to put a stop to poverty pay in local government and schools and recognises the crucial role played by staff during the pandemic.

Spokespersons from all the unions expressed their deep disappointment with the 1.5% offer.