A total of 40 workers employed by Saba Park Services in Slough, Berkshire have accepted a 25.6% pay increase, ending a long-running pay dispute.
The employees, who are represented by trade union Unite, work as parking enforcement officers who monitor resident parking zones and street pay and display parking while also covering back office support, CCTV monitoring, and enforcement in bus lanes. The contract is outsourced by Slough Council.
The increase will see the lowest hourly pay rise from £10.50 to £13.20, while the deal also includes a continuous pay increase to match the retail prices index rate of inflation over the next two years.
Strike ballots for the workers were opened last April and industrial action took place from 26 February to 10 March, as they believe they are paid significantly lower than the market rate.
As well as establishing recognition during negotiations and electing two workplace representatives and a health and safety officer, Unite saw the number of members at the organisation triple from 13 to 40.
Sharon Graham, general secretary at Unite, said: “This win highlights the power of industrial action, the collective and further negotiation. We are dedicated to improving and defending the jobs, pay and conditions of our members. That is apparent here as we worked tirelessly to secure an increase that will continue to rise over the coming years, having a positive and lasting impact on our hardworking members.”
Richard White, regional officer at Unite, added: “Over the last year, we have seen our membership rocket at Saba Park Services, highlighting how important it is to come together to work towards a common goal. The increase, as well as monumental recognition and new representatives, will have massive improvements on the workplace for current and future employees of Saba Park Services.”
Saba Park Services has been contacted for comment prior to publication.
