More than 70,000 local government workers in Scotland are being consulted over potential pay strikes, says UNISON today (Thursday).
Council staff have been asked whether they want to move towards a formal industrial action ballot, the first step towards a strike. If workers back the move there could be mass walkouts before the summer, the union says.
Local government employer body Cosla has offered all council workers a 3% pay increase for 2025-26, says UNISON
According to the union inflation, energy and council tax rises mean this offer is effectively a wage cut.
It will also do little to move towards a minimum rate of £15 per hour in local government, says UNISON.
UNISON Scotland local government committee chair Colette Hunter said: “We’re determined to avoid strike action, but Cosla and the Scottish government must make a significantly improved offer, and quickly.
“Another real terms pay cut is unacceptable. Especially as some councils are set to vote on double figure pay rises for councillors. We need a revised offer that demonstrates invaluable contributions of council staff too.
“We must also address systemic low pay that has eroded living standards for far too long.
“We are ready to engage in constructive discussions, but it’s only the prospect of industrial action that prompts action from COSLA and the Scottish government.”
Notes to editors
– UNISON is the largest union in local government in Scotland representing more than 80,000 council employees.
– The consultative digital ballot opened on Monday 10 March and continues until Thursday 27 March.
– UNISON is Scotland’s largest union, with more than 150,000 members providing public services in education, local government, the NHS, social care, police services, water and energy. They are employed in the public, voluntary and private sectors.