Workers at King’s Lynn and West Norfolk Council will receive the full 2022/23 local government pay rise of £1,925 after a UNISON campaign.
After staff rejected a 4-5% rise in a consultative ballot, further talks initiated by UNISON resulted in the improved offer, worth an average of 7.5%, with councillors and managers.
The £1,925 rise was agreed by unions with national local government employers covered by the NJC agreement, but King’s Lynn and West Norfolk negotiates pay and conditions locally.
UNISON Eastern regional organiser Cameron Matthews said: “This boost will be welcome news to so many vital workers at King’s Lynn and West Norfolk Council and should help them keep their heads above water amid this cost of living crisis.
“While it isn’t enough for wages to keep in line with inflation, the council has made a big commitment to staff while its own funds are being mercilessly squeezed by central government.
“This will help King’s Lynn and West Norfolk recruit and retain the staff it needs to provide essential public services, showing how meaningful dialogue between unions, councillors and managers can benefit everyone.”
The pay rise only applies to staff directly employed by the council, refuse workers employed by Serco in west Norfolk are considering moving to industrial action over the firm’s refusal to pay a decent wage.