UNISON, the UK’s leading public sector trade union, today slammed Eric Pickles’ attack on so-called ‘non-jobs’ in local government. The union warned that making cuts to council jobs would not be painless, and called on Eric Pickles to turn his firepower on the money councils waste on expensive private consultants.
Dave Prentis, UNISON General Secretary, said:
“Eric Pickles is perpetuating the myth that job cuts can be painless. The truth is that Tory cuts will hit communities hard. The tale of the non-job is a myth. Eric Pickles should look a little closer at the valuable work people in local councils do, and at the millions wasted on expensive private consultants, who add little value.
“Freedom of information requests submitted by UNISON in 2008 showed that councils spent at least £800m a year on consultants, and another £1.5bn a year on agency staff. This money would be better spent protecting services.
“A closer look at so-called non-jobs shows the value they bring local communities. Councils work together with local businesses and other agencies such as the police and fire brigades to fund some posts, particularly for young people.
“Take the example of a street football co-ordinator in Moray Council. Despite being advertised at £19,887, the post cost the council just £3,000. It got more than 70 young people involved, led to a reduction in antisocial behaviour, vandalism, teenage alcohol abuse and graffiti. Money well spent on a very worthwhile job.”
ENDS