Staffordshire UNISON notes that pay negotiations remain ongoing as the new financial year begins. Last week, the Local Government Association (LGA) announced a “final” one‑year pay offer of 3.3%. The LGA negotiates on behalf of 350 local authorities across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, representing approximately 1.5 million employees.
UNISON, alongside the other joint trade unions (Unite and GMB), had submitted a pay claim seeking an increase of at least £3,000 or 10%, a minimum hourly rate of £15, a shorter working week, an additional day of annual leave, the right for school support staff to take one day of term‑time leave, and the regrading of all Level 1 Teaching Assistants to Level 2. The employers’ offer of a 3.3% pay increase rejected all other elements of this claim.
This offer comes at a time when UK real wage growth is at its lowest level in over five years. Members are also facing continued cost‑of‑living pressures, with high household bills expected to rise further due to increased fuel, petrol, and housing costs.
Staffordshire UNISON will keep members informed of any developments and will continue to campaign for an improved pay settlement. If progress is not achieved through negotiation, members will be consulted on their views and on the response options agreed by the national union.
For further information, please contact your local representative or the UNISON Branch Office at unison@staffsunison.org.uk
