Council workers across Scotland signal strike action over pay dispute

Unison Scotland has revealed that over 92% of its members support potential strike action due to dissatisfaction with a proposed 3% pay rise, which is deemed insufficient amid rising inflation and council tax increases of up to 15.6% for 2025-26. The union argues that the current offer effectively constitutes a wage cut, urging the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (Cosla) and the Scottish Government to negotiate a fairer compensation package. Union leaders emphasize that local government workers, who provide essential services, have seen their wages decline in value over the past decade while taking on more responsibilities. Colette Hunter, chair of Unison Scotland’s local government committee, stated that the result should serve as a wake-up call for local government leaders to address the issue. The union is considering its next steps, including a formal strike ballot for its 80,000 council worker members. This situation echoes previous disputes, as Unison workers had engaged in strikes last year over similar pay concerns.