Responding to the release of the latest inflation figures today (Wednesday) UNISON assistant general secretary Jon Richards said:
“Prices are racing ahead, leaving wages far behind. Struggling households can no longer make their money stretch to cover the basics. Wrong-headed tax increases this month have added to the misery.
“Ministers with little idea of living on a tight budget must do more to support hard-up families. That means boosting benefits and public sector wages to levels that will help families keep the wolf from the door.
“Above-inflation pay rises won’t just ease financial hardship for employees in the NHS, schools, care, councils and police. Decent wage increases will protect essential services too by ensuring experienced staff stay and new recruits keep joining.”
Notes to editors:
-UNISON is the UK’s largest union with more than 1.3 million members providing public services in education, local government, the NHS, police service and energy. They are employed in the public, voluntary and private sectors.
Media contacts:
Liz Chinchen M: 07778 158175 E: press@unison.co.uk