Mark Whitehead 14 May 2018

Unions submit pay rise claim for youth and community workers

Unions have submitted a pay claim for youth and community workers they say would narrow a growing gap between falling wages and rising costs caused by austerity.

The proposed two-year deal submitted jointly by Unite, Unison, the National Education Union and the University and College Union would mean rises of 5% or £1,000, whichever is greater, in September and the same next year.

The claim, on behalf of several thousand staff in the local government, not-for-profit and voluntary sectors, also seeks to move the lowest paid onto the 'real living wage' of £8.75 an hour or £10.20 in London.

The unions say youth and community workers have had their wages cut by 21% in real terms after years of pay freezes or below inflation increases since the introduction of austerity policies in 2010.

They also blame the 'devastating' impact of a recent spike in youth crime on a £400m funding cut which has meant hundreds of youth clubs and play centres being shut and youth worker losing their jobs.

Unite national officer, Colenzo Jarrett-Thorpe, said youth and community workers have been left struggling to make ends meet and have seen their profession crumble through de-professionalisation and downgrading.

He said: 'It’s time to pay up for youth and community workers and invest in the services children and young people receive.'

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Highly Specialist Clinical Psychologist

Oxfordshire County Council
£62215 - £72293
How about joining The Clinical Team at Oxfordshire County Council in our new Community Family Clinic initiative? Oxford
Recuriter: Oxfordshire County Council

Traffic Management Officer - WMF2114e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£37,035 - £37,938
Are you an experienced and motivated professional looking to take the next step in your traffic management career? Cumbria / Various
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council

Peripatetic Support Assistant

Wakefield Council
£16,415.00 - £16,675.23 Grade 4, 24.5 hours, Permanent
Are you caring, compassionate, and friendly? Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Wakefield Council

Peripatetic Support Assistant

Wakefield Council
£14,070.00 - £14,293.05 Grade 4, 21 hours, Permanent
Are you caring, compassionate, and friendly? Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Wakefield Council

Recruitment Support Officer

Durham County Council
£25,584 to £27,711 p.a. (Grade 5) pay award pending
We are looking for a Recruitment Support Officer to join our team on a temporary basis until 31 March 2026. In this role, you will provide a comprehe Spennymoor
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner