DUDLEY SCHOOL SUPPORT STAFF VOTE IN FAVOUR OF NEW PAY DEAL

The GMB has announced the result of a ballot affecting over 1500 School Support Staff across the Dudley area.

An overwhelming majority of GMB members voted in favour of accepting the deal on offer, which incorporates:

- A four level career structure
- Salaries up to a maximum of £18,075
- SEN allowances of £1425 for Nursery Nurses in special schools
- New SEN allowances introduced in mainstream and special schools
- Cover supervision allowance of £1000 over and above salaries where appropriate
- No detriment in pensions

Lengthy discussions had been taking place between Unions and management following Government plans to remodel school staff throughout England & Wales.

The deal will be implemented from 1 January 2005 and will enhance the pay, terms and conditions and career structures of classroom based staff working in Dudley schools.

Rob Kelsall, GMB Union Negotiator, said: “This package presents the best offer available at this time here in Dudley. Currently our members working in Dudley schools do not have a career structure or any recognition for the roles and responsibilities they are carrying out. The deal will give our members an opportunity to progress within their school and enjoy salary levels which begin to recognise their value. At present, some staff are paid as little as £7000 to £9000 per year which is unacceptable.”

“Our members voted in the knowledge that GMB continues to lobby nationally for a pay and conditions structure which will ensure that our members in education authorities across the country receive the same pay and conditions regardless of the funding per pupil. If it’s good enough for teachers, it’s good enough for school support staff.”

For further information, please contact Rob Kelsall on 0121 550 4888

Ballot results: 271 papers returned; 246 voted YES, 25 voted NO

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