Further education staff across Scotland are to vote on a new three-year pay offer, says UNISON today (Wednesday).
The union is recommending the workers – including administrators, librarians, cleaners, IT specialists, estate management staff, technicians and catering staff – choose to accept the offer.
The ballot begins tomorrow (Thursday 13) and runs until Tuesday 25 November.
UNISON says the proposed settlement could help bring stability to further education in Scotland, following a decade of difficult industrial relations.
The offer contains other benefits for staff, including changes to overtime rate thresholds and an increased standby allowance.
UNISON Scotland regional organiser Janet Stewart said: “Further education staff are central to the running of colleges and to supporting students across Scotland.
“We’re pleased to have negotiated an offer that recognises the important contribution of support staff, after many tough years.
“If workers back the offer, it’ll bring stability around pay. And it means there can be a focus on other priorities, such as job evaluation.”
Notes to editors:
– Key features of the pay offer:
Year one: (September 2025 to August 2026): 4.25% on all salary points, with a minimum uplift of £1,150 for salaries up to £27,000; an additional payment matching the lecturing staff pay award.
Year two: (September 2026 to August 2027): 3.4% on all salary points.
Year three: (September 2027-August 2026): 3% on all salary points.
– UNISON is the largest union for staff working in public services, and the union for further education workers in Scotland.