Purpose

To explain the reasons for a recommendation to implement a pay award in line with the National Employers' for Local Government Services final offer effective from 1st April 2026.

Decision

That Cabinet:

Approved an additional budget of:

·         £214,000 from the Local Priorities Reserve to fund the General Fund impact of the proposed pay award impact for 2026/27.

·         £37,000 from the Housing Priorities Reserve to fund the HRA Impact of the proposed pay award impact for 2026/27.

Reasons for the decision

The staff award is a recognition of the hard work and dedication of our employees. It is proposed to back date the pay award to 1 April 2026. A delay in implementation could negatively impact some members of staff.

Other options considered

Not implementing a pay award would have had a significant impact on staff morale, employee relations, staff retention and relations with the Trade Unions.