BCP Council Staff Vote Overwhelmingly to Accept Unified Pay Structure After Six Years

The Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council is set to unify its pay structure for council staff for the first time since its formation in 2019, following strong support from trade unions GMB and UNISON. Union members voted overwhelmingly in favor of the council's proposal, with 83% of UNISON and 77% of GMB members approving the new pay, terms, and conditions, which will be implemented on December 1 pending councillor approval in July. The new structure addresses longstanding disparities where employees doing similar jobs were paid differently, aiming to improve fairness and staff morale. At least 92% of staff will see either an increase or no change, while those facing pay reductions will have their current salaries protected for 18 months. The council plans to invest an additional £1.7 million to support the changes, bringing the total investment to £4.6 million, with savings identified to cover the costs. Councillor Jeff Hanna emphasized the importance of the new pay structure for attracting and retaining talent and delivering quality services to residents.