Local workers secure pay rise after strike action
- Local government workers in Scotland voted to accept a revised pay offer after striking earlier in the autumn.
- The deal includes plans for a minimum wage increase to £15 an hour and discussions on reducing the work week.
- This successful negotiation demonstrates the effectiveness of collective action in advocating for worker rights and will impact future wage discussions.
In Scotland, local government workers have accepted a revised pay offer after a series of strikes in October 2024. The wave of industrial action, which included a two-week strike by non-teaching staff in Perth and Kinross constituency of First Minister John Swinney, resulted in school closures and put significant pressure on council employers. The revised pay offer includes plans for a minimum pay rate of £15 an hour and discussions on reducing the working week. The acceptance of this deal marks the conclusion of the pay negotiations for the 2024/25 fiscal year. Unison, the largest union representing these workers, expressed satisfaction that their collective action led to a constructive outcome. The Scottish Government is expected to participate in future wage discussions, addressing both the needs of the workforce and the financial challenges faced by local councils.