Commenting on the latest figures published by the Office for National Statistics showing wages in the private sector grew by 6.6% in the year to September, but those in the public sector by just 2.2%, UNISON general secretary Christina McAnea said:
“Workers everywhere are struggling to make their wages go far enough. But the huge inflation hit is being felt the hardest across the UK’s public services.
“Lower pay is driving experienced staff away from hospitals, schools, care homes, councils and other essential services, delivering employees to other sectors paying more.
“But flagging wages in the public sector matter to each and every one of us. Without enough workers, public services can’t support, protect and care for communities, and society suffers.
“The government must see key services as a driver of economic growth, not a drain on the public purse. The autumn statement is the time to start doing that.”
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
Anthony Barnes M: 07834 864794 E: a.barnes@unison.co.uk