Mark Whitehead 06 April 2017

Teaching assistants end long-running pay dispute with council

Teaching assistants in Derby have voted overwhelmingly to end a ten-month campaign of strike action over pay and working time.

They voted none-to-one to accept the latest offer from Derby City Council and end the dispute which has led to school closures.

Changes imposed by the council last June meant staff lost up to £6,000 a year as their contracts were reduced from 52 to 44.5 weeks a year, while weekly hours were also increased from 32.5 to 37 with no extra pay.

The settlement involves compensation payments to some of the worst-hit workers from a £2m fund and a new flexible 52-week contract for all support staff.

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.'

Cllr Baggy Shanker, cabinet member for finance and governance at Derby City Council, said: 'We are delighted that the positive ballot result of Unison members brings to an end this long running dispute.

'The council recognises the commitment of parents and the school community across Derby - the valuable contribution all our employees, teaching assistants, teachers and governors make to the lives of our young people.

'Our schools and our school employees can now concentrate on what they do best - educating Derby's children.'

LocalGov Weekly Round Up image

LocalGov Weekly Round Up

A pivotal week for councils sees fresh devolution plans, new service pilots and key legal and political battles, writes LocalGov editor William Eichler.
SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Digital Systems Manager

Hyndburn Borough Council
£39,152 – £41,771 per annum
We are seeking a Digital Systems Manager to lead the management, development and optimisation of the Council’s core business systems. Accrington, Lancashire
Recuriter: Hyndburn Borough Council

Digital Infrastructure Manager

Hyndburn Borough Council
£39,152 – £41,771 per annum
We are looking for a Digital Infrastructure Manager to lead the development, security and resilience of the Council’s digital infrastructure. Accrington, Lancashire
Recuriter: Hyndburn Borough Council

Elections Manager

The Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead
£55,296 - £60,286 per annum
We have an exciting opportunity for an Elections Manager to join us! Maidenhead, Berkshire
Recuriter: The Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead

Part Time Environmental Health Officer (Food Safety/Health & Safety)

Ribble Valley Borough Council
SO2 (scp 29-32) £39,862 to £42,839 per annum pro rata
Ribble Valley Borough Council is located in the heart of Lancashire. Clitheroe, Lancashire
Recuriter: Ribble Valley Borough Council

Continuing Healthcare Team Manager

Wakefield Council
£51,356.00 - £54,495.00, Grade 12, 37 hours, Permanent
Make a real difference to people with complex health and social care needs Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Wakefield Council
Linkedin Banner