Since the Living Wage Foundation was formed several years ago, UNISON has been at the forefront of persuading employers to sign up to become accredited Real Living Wage employers.
As a branch, we have constantly put this to the University as the right thing to do for our members on the lowest pay. If implemented today, 366 staff would benefit by having their hourly pay rate rise to £9.00 per hour.
After years of resistance to this idea, we are very pleased to see a change of heart by the University as it is committing itself to practical action to promote social justice.
You may be aware that a task group headed by DVC Julie Sanders has been working on finding out how the University can at last take this progressive step on pay.
You may have been involved in the evidence gathering process and had your experience of low pay listened to.
In the coming months the University Executive Board will be deciding on its course of action and UNISON will be involved in discussions to get the best deal we can for our members.