BCP Council has approved a new pay structure for staff, with councillors unanimously supporting the proposals at a meeting held on 22 July.
The new structure will come into effect on 1 December this year and will be supported by an additional £1.7 million in funding. It follows several years of work to introduce a consistent set of pay and terms and conditions for all employees across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, following the formation of the Council in 2019.
According to BCP Council, at least 92 per cent of employees will either receive a pay increase or see no change in their salary. Those who are affected by a reduction in pay will have their current salary protected for a further 18 months.
The Council has confirmed that trade union members from GMB and UNISON voted in favour of the new proposals earlier this month. A collective agreement with the unions is expected to be signed before the end of the year.
Councillor Millie Earl, Leader of BCP Council, said the agreement marked an important step in delivering fairness and consistency for staff. Chief Executive Graham Farrant described it as the Council’s final major milestone following local government reorganisation more than six years ago.
The new pay structure is aimed at helping the Council attract and retain staff across key services.