The majority of council staff are unhappy with changes to their working terms and conditions, according to a new survey.
The survey, conducted by Local Government News magazine, found that nearly 60% of council employees have seen changes to their terms and conditions as a result of efficiency savings. Of these, 80% are unhappy with the changes, with 40% looking for a new job as a direct result.
Travel-related benefits have been the most affected, with 57% of council staff seeing a reduction in benefits such as mileage rates and care allowances. Staff are also facing a reduction in paid overtime (27%), reduced holiday entitlement (14%), and reduced sick pay (14%).
Of those surveyed, 65% said the changes had reduced their take home pay but remain doubtful it has helped protect jobs in their authority. Less than a fifth said the changes have stopped further job cuts, with 65% saying the changes have protected frontline services.
Of those yet to experience changes to their terms and conditions, 41% think their council could make changes in the future. The majority (78%) said they might look for a new job as a result, depending on the changes proposed.
Click here to read a selection of comments made by council staff on working terms and conditions.
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