Councillors at Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council have voted in favour of a unified pay structure for employees.
The council has been working towards a single pay structure for its employees since it was formed as the local authority for residents of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole in 2019.
In a meeting that took place this week, councillors formally approved the proposals following a unanimous supporting vote. They have also agreed on the £1.7 million investment required for the proposed pay structure.
BCP Council will now finalise the signing of a collective agreement with unions, aiming to implement the new pay and terms and conditions for staff from 1 December.
Earlier this month, members of trade unions GMB and Unison overwhelmingly voted in favour of accepting proposals to introduce the new pay structure, which will see a number of staff receive a pay increase.
Millie Earl, leader of BCP Council, said: “Achieving fairness and equality in our pay and grading structure for staff has always been our primary aim. Getting to this position has taken a huge amount of hard work and effort from everyone involved and we are delighted that we can now offer fair and transparent pay for our workforce.
“The new structure means at least 92% of our employees would see either an increase or no change in their pay. Those staff facing a reduction in their pay would have the certainty that their salary will be protected at current levels for a further 18 months.”
Graham Farrant, chief executive of BCP Council, added: “This is a hugely significant moment for BCP Council and our biggest and final milestone following local government reorganisation more than six years ago. Providing consistency across our pay structure will allow us to offer a package of terms and conditions that enables the council to attract and retain the skills and talent it needs to deliver the best possible services for our residents.”
