On 25th September, COSLA hosted a meeting with the Scottish Joint Council (SJC) Trade Unions as well as the Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Local Government, to discuss funding for the SJC pay award. The meeting was arranged at short notice following a request from Unison.

Commenting following the meeting, Councillor Katie Hagmann, COSLA Resources Spokesperson, said:

“I am pleased to have had a constructive discussion with our SJC Trade Union partners, and that the Cabinet Secretary was able to join us to outline the Scottish Government’s position.

It was important to continue the dialogue with each of our three SJC Trade Unions and understand their respective positions, in advance of the upcoming meeting of council Leaders this Friday, where SJC pay will be considered.

The current offer represents a fair, above inflation pay rise for all employees and has been accepted by GMB and Unite members. The offer is worth 4.27% across the workforce and guarantees a minimum 3.6% uplift, with 75% of the workforce receiving a greater uplift - up to 5.63% for the lowest paid. This offer remains at the absolute limit of affordability within the current challenging financial context."