UNISON members working in councils and schools are voting on whether to ‘accept’ or ‘reject’ the national pay offer.
The pay offer of £1,925 on all NJC pay points is much higher than members have seen in recent years and is very close to the £2,000 that UNISON branches and the NJC committee agreed should be a key part of the pay claim. However, it doesn’t deliver a pay increase that keeps up with the rising cost of living, resulting in what is effectively a pay cut – and this issue only increases the further up the pay spine you are.
What do I need to do?
You need to decide on whether you wish to accept or reject the pay offer and then vote in the consultation. This consultation is being coordinated by branches, so look out for an email with your link to vote online. If we do not have an email address for you, we will send you a ballot paper by post with a freepost envelope included.
If you do not receive an email, or postal ballot paper, make sure to check with us as we may not have your correct email address – you don’t want to miss out on this important decision because of outdated contact information!
Once you have voted, speak to colleagues where you work about the pay offer and encourage them to vote as well.
Why should I vote?
This is your decision on your pay. It’s vital that you add your voice to make sure we get an accurate picture of all members’ views – if you don’t vote, decisions on your pay will be made without your input.
You should be aware that if the majority vote to reject the offer, the next step would be an industrial action ballot to attempt to force the employers to make an improved offer.
If a majority of UNISON members vote to accept the pay offer, UNISON’s elected NJC committee will meet as soon as possible to decide the next steps.
The pay award will be backdated to 1 April 2022. Make sure your voice is heard.
The deadline to vote online, or return your postal ballot paper, is Friday 16 September.
What will the pay offer mean for me?
The offer is £1,925 on each spinal point. This is roughly £1 an hour on each point.
Download the full details of the employer’s offer
Download the North Yorkshire County Council pay spine
