Purpose

The Council has a statutory requirement under the Localism Act 2011 to prepare a pay policy statement on an annual basis. The first statement was in place by 31st March 2012 and they have been produced annually since. Agreement (and subsequent publication) of this 2025/26 annual Pay Policy Statement will ensure continued compliance with this legislation.

Decision

Paul Orders, Sarah McGill, Chris Lee, Debbie Marles and Tracey Thomas declared a personal and pecuniary interest in this item.

Paul Orders, Sarah McGill, Chris Lee, Debbie Marles and Tracey Thomas left the meeting. Gavin Happe joined the meeting in order to answer any technical questions.

RESOLVED: that Council be recommended to

1. confirm that the decision to agree the Pay Policy Statement constitutes agreement to implement the cost of living pay increases determined by the relevant negotiating body effective from 1st April 2025, as accounted for in the Budget set and agreed by Council on 6th March 2025.
2. determine that any additional financial implications arising from the national pay agreements determined after this date that cannot be met within the Council’s Revenue Budget will be referred to Council for consideration and decision.
3. approve the attached Pay Policy Statement (2025/26) Appendix 1.