Derby school support staff have voted overwhelmingly (nine to one) to accept the council’s latest offer, ending a 10-month dispute over pay and working time, says UNISON.
Derby City Council had imposed changes last June that meant staff lost up to £6,000 a year, as their contracts were reduced from 52 to 44.5 weeks. Their weekly hours were also increased from 32.5 to 37 with no extra pay.
Since the beginning of the dispute, school support staff have staged a series of protests culminating in all out industrial action last month. Throughout, UNISON has sought to reach an agreement with the council that would compensate staff for their lost wages.
UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis said: “School support staff are relieved this dispute is behind them. Now they can concentrate on the great work they do helping children in the city’s schools.
“From the outset there’s been tremendous support from parents and local residents.
“School support staff can go into work with their heads held high, knowing that the value of the work they do for children and schools has been recognised.”
Notes to editors:
– The school support staff ballot closed at 5pm yesterday (Tuesday).
– UNISON balloted 1,318 school support staff, who voted by nine to one (446 for, 52 against) to accept Derby City Council’s offer which includes compensation to staff who lost pay; a 52-week flexible contract from September; and a review of grades and job descriptions.
Media contacts:
Alan Weaver T: 0207 121 5555 M: 07939 143310 E: a.weaver@unison.co.uk
Liz Chinchen T: 0207 121 5463 M: 07778 158175 E: l.chinchen@unison.co.uk
