UNISON has agreed with the other NJC trade unions (Unite and GMB) the pay claim for 2026-27. The following has now (as of 1st December) been submitted as the claim for 2026-27:
- An increase of at least £3,000 or 10% (whichever is greater) across all NJC spinal column points*
- A minimum pay rate of £15 an hour for the NJC pay spine
*Based on a one-year settlement
In addition:
- A two hour reduction in the working week
- An increase of one day annual leave
- The ability of all school support staff to take a day of paid leave during term time
- The abolition of Level 1 Teaching Assistant role and instead all Level 1 role holders be moved onto Level 2
The pay claim also recognises that the employers may wish to negotiate on the basis of a multi-year pay settlement. Our claim therefore states that in the event of a multi-year settlement being proposed, the unions would seek the following structure to a three-year agreement:
- Year 1: £3,000 or 10% (whichever is greater) on all spinal column points, alongside the introduction of a £15 minimum hourly rate – i.e. as above
- Year 2: An increase of RPI + 3%
- Year 3: An increase of RPI + 2%
We would also seek guarantees that any multi-year settlement would be accompanied by a review of the NJC pay spine being completed and agreed by all parties.
The Employers’ Side are hosting briefings in December and January to get the view of local authorities on what offer should be made. We are urging the Employers to make an offer as soon as possible after that, and to engage in meaningful negotiations.
For members on HAY, Agenda for Change and SMG4 grades
As you will know, your annual cost-of-living pay award each year is arrived at after a local process which follows NJC awards and is informed by the NJC award.
Since 2021, WSCC has agreed to a formal UNISON request that it should mirror NJC awards for staff on HAY, Agenda for Change and SMG4 scales. WSCC has also previously agreed that the pay year for HAY staff would align with NJC staff, being applicable from 1st April each year.
The Branch Secretary has a meeting scheduled with the Chief Executive later in December to discuss arrangements for 2026-27.