More than a third of a million council and school support staff in England and Wales have started voting on a possible strike over pay.
Their union Unison says the flat rate rise of £1,925 offer made to local government staff is ‘nowhere near what’s needed to meet rising prices during the cost of living crisis’.
It had called for an increase of 2% above inflation and is now asking more than 360,000 workers it represents in the sector whether they are prepared to take industrial action.
It says the value of local government pay has fallen by 25% since 2010.
The ballot which will close on 4 July includes refuse collectors, social workers, teaching assistants, librarians and others.
Unison general secretary Christina McAnea said: ‘Staff are leaving their jobs because pay is falling ever further behind, and neighbourhoods will suffer.
‘Bins won’t be collected, schools won’t have sufficient staff and vulnerable people will be deprived of vital support.
‘These workers are truly dedicated but they’ve had enough. Going on strike is a huge step that isn’t taken lightly but many feel they have to make a stand.’
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