Update on proposed Unite strike action on 25-27 April and 3-5 May

We know that the cost of living crisis is affecting our staff and understand their concerns, however pay for council staff is decided at a national level, and we’re not able to make local pay deals. 

National negotiations concluded in February, and staff covered by the National Joint Council agreement have already received the increase in salary agreed with unions, and back pay for the last financial year. 

We are concerned about the approach being taken by Unite and urge them to reconsider their proposed action. This strike action will affect the vital frontline services that residents, including those who are vulnerable, rely on the most. 

We are expecting some disruption to our transport service for children with special educational needs. This is regrettable, however we will continue to work with our valued SEND transport team to resolve this. We have written to parents and carers directly affected by this.

We have also rescheduled some non-urgent council housing repairs during strike days. Emergency repairs will continue to be carried out. We expect other services, including rubbish collections, to operate as usual.