Welsh Government Announces Public Sector Pay Rises

The Welsh Government has announced pay rises for hundreds of thousands of public sector workers, including NHS staff, teachers, and civil servants, ranging from 5% to 6% for the 2024-25 financial year. Teachers and NHS staff on Agenda for Change terms will receive a 5.5% increase, while doctors and dentists will receive a 6% raise, plus an additional £1,000 for junior doctors. These pay increases will be backdated to the start of the pay year for each profession. First Minister Eluned Morgan emphasized the importance of fairly rewarding public sector workers, stating that the public expects improvements in services, particularly in education and the NHS. The announced pay rises are above inflation and align with recommendations from independent pay bodies, which the Welsh Government has accepted in full. A four-week consultation period will follow to secure approval from trade unions before implementation.