Council staff could see working hours reduced

Union bosses say they will do everything in their power to help their members

More than 100 staff could have their hours reduced as a council tries to balance its books.

A proposal in budget documents looked at cutting the hours of 145 members of staff at Worcestershire County Council from 37 hours a week to 35.

The Conservative-led council expected to save £500,000 through the proposal and a spokesperson said it was committed to a full and meaningful consultation.

Labour councillor Richard Udall and local government workers union Unison said goodwill and moral could be damaged across the council’s entire workforce.

Ninety five affected staff work in the economy and infrastructure section, Unison said.

Members of the people’s team and some working in the chief executive’s unit are also said to be affected.

Jack Kay, regional organiser for Unison West Midlands, the union would be lead by its members.

"We will do everything in our power, even if that means a formal dispute."

Mr Udall, who represents Worcester St John, has called for the process to be suspended and wants a full member review of the proposal.

He said: "Some have already told me they will have to seek Universal Credit just to get by, forcing the state to subsidise county council pay."

A council spokesperson said it was consulting with about 150 staff members about the reduced working hours strategy, which was introduced in 2011.

“Officers leading the consultation have been in dialogue with the council’s recognised trade unions both prior and throughout the process and this is being done in accordance with the council’s policies.

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.

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