7 July 2025In regard to the pay claim for 2025/6 effective from the anniversary date of 1st April, we have been advised that UNISON members have “overwhelmingly rejected” this year’s local government pay offer for staff in England and Wales.
This result follows similar outcomes in consultative ballots of the members of GMB and Unite, in relation to the offer from the employers’ side of the National Joint Council for Local Government Services (NJC).
The 3.2% offered is below the rate of inflation in the year to May 2025 (3.4%), according to the government’s preferred consumer prices index (CPI), as well as pay settlements or offers for most other public sector staff. However, the employers have said that the offer is “full and final”, given the pressure they say it will put on council finances.
UNISON, along with UNITE and GMB have written to the employers to come back with a fairer and better offer.
We will, of course, keep you advised of developments.
