Issue - meetings

To consider a report from the Director of People and Organisation providing an update on several relevant pay and legislative matters.

The Committee considered a report of the Director of People and Organisation (Item 6 in the Minute Book) giving an update on pay and legislation matters.

The Director summarised the main points in the report and Members were advised that:

·         equal pay matters had been thoroughly debated by this Committee over a number of years and considerations continue to be made as part of ongoing ‘business as usual’ practices within HR

·         the elements of the pay claim for 2024 (other than the percentage award) described in paragraph 25, even if they were agreed nationally, would not apply to Hampshire County Council as the EHCC agreement defines working hours per week and annual leave entitlement. Future communications would be sent to staff in this respect to avoid any confusion which may arise.

RESOLVED:

1.    That EHCC note that the 2023 national pay award for Local Government employees (those paid on Grades A-G EHCC terms and conditions) has now been accepted and was implemented in pay in December 2023.

2.    That EHCC also note that as per EHCC decision in March 2023, the pay award was implemented in December 2023 pay for Grades H+.

3.    That EHCC note the Trade Union side’s pay claim for April 2024.

4.    That EHCC note that Cabinet is proposing to sign the Local Declaration on Tobacco Control, which is a public statement of the Council's commitment to action on tobacco control and to protect people from the harm caused by smoking.

5.    That EHCC agree to apply the national pay award agreed (for those paid on Grades A-G EHCC terms and conditions) to staff on Grades H and above, with effect from 1 April 2024. This is on the basis that national negotiations are concluded and that the national pay award does not exceed 3% of the pay budget.

6.    That EHCC note the pay award for 2023 for Teachers was applied in December payroll and the current position on the national Teachers pay award for September 2024. Further, that the NASUWT’s mandate for industrial action on workload and excessive working hours has now expired. 

7.    That EHCC note that the national pay award for Soulbury staff covering 2022 and 2023 has been agreed and was implemented in February 2024 payroll.

8.    That EHCC note several new employment-related Regulations are coming into force in April 2024, requiring action from Officers.