William Eichler 03 May 2025

Union hits back after Farage’s ‘alternative careers’ comment

Union hits back after Farage’s ‘alternative careers’ comment  image
© ComposedPix / Shutterstock.com.

A public sector union has criticised Reform UK leader Nigel Farage after he said council workers should seek ‘alternative careers’.

Speaking in County Durham after Reform won control of the county council, Farage said employees of the local authority working on climate change, diversity, equality and inclusion (DEI) initiatives or wishing to work from home ‘better all be seeking alternative careers very, very quickly’.

In response, UNISON general secretary Christina McAnea said Farage and his party's new councillors ‘have much to learn about local government.’

‘This is not the US. Thankfully workers in the UK have laws to protect them from bad employers. And soon employees will get even more protection from unscrupulous bosses when the Government’s new employment rights come in.’

McAnea added: ‘Rather than attacking hard-working council staff, Mr Farage should be focusing on his own job representing the people of Clacton. But judging by his voting and speaking record in the House of Commons, he’d clearly rather be making big bucks elsewhere.’

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Director of Social Work and Social Care

Trafford Council
£100,731 to £104,625
You will join a values-driven senior leadership team, providing visible and responsive leadership. Manchester
Recuriter: Trafford Council

Housing Ombudsman

Housing Ombudsman Service
£130,095 per annum, negotiable based on experience.
The Housing Ombudsman Service allows colleagues to choose if they wish to work in the London office, from home or a hybrid of the two London (Greater)
Recuriter: Housing Ombudsman Service

Youth Worker

Oxfordshire County Council
£31537 - £34434
About Us We believe in relationships that make a difference and creating the space for young people to feel seen, heard, and supported. If you’re passionate about supporting young people, this is where you belong. The Targeted Youth Support Service (TYS Oxfordshire
Recuriter: Oxfordshire County Council

Civil Enforcement Officer

North Yorkshire Council
£25,989- £27,254 per annum
Are you looking for a role that allows you to earn whilst being outdoors across the district of North Yorkshire? Northallerton, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Housing Support Assistant

North Yorkshire Council
£27,254 - £29,064 pro rata per annum
Are you passionate about making a difference? Greenwich, London (Greater)
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council
Linkedin Banner