The Pay Consultation Ballot for UNISON local government members is underway.
You should have received your e-ballot, sent directly to the email address you provided. If you haven’t received it, contact your branch immediately, and they will arrange for a replacement to be sent out.
So far, the employers’ offer of a 3% pay increase is effectively a pay cut disguised as a pay offer.
Here’s why:
Inflation: The latest UK inflation figures show a rise to 3% in January. This means the cost of everyday goods is rising at the same rate as the proposed pay rise, effectively cancelling it out.
Projected Inflation: Economic forecasts suggest inflation is set to rise to 3.75% by the middle of the year, meaning the offer of 3% will result in a pay cut.
Energy Costs: The recent energy cap increase of 6.4% adds an average of £111 to annual fuel bills. This alone wipes out a significant portion of the 3% increase.
Council Tax: Massive council tax rises further erode our take-home pay.
Additionally, over the past 15 years, all local government staff have seen the value of their pay drop by as much as 20%. This long-term erosion of pay value has been ignored.
Your UNION is seeking your views on the next steps if the employer fails to come forward with an improved pay offer by 31st March 2025.
We are asking whether you are willing to take industrial action to achieve an improved offer.
Your Local Government Committee is urging you to vote YES:
Yes, you deserve a decent pay raise.
YES to show a united strength of feeling.
By not participating in this ballot, you are telling the employers that you are willing to accept a pay cut disguised as a pay offer.
For more information see https://unison-scotland.org/local-government-pay-2025-26/
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