Birmingham City Council has reached a historic agreement to settle equal pay claims with trade unions. The settlement addresses years of pay disparity affecting thousands of employees in female-dominated roles. We'll have the details on what this means for council staff and its financial recovery.
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00:00Birmingham City Council has agreed to settle long-standing equal pay claims following negotiations
00:08in trade unions, Unison and GMB. The settlement addresses historic pay disparities with many
00:15affected employees working in female-dominated roles such as teaching assistants and cleaners.
00:22The issue has been a significant financial challenge for the council, contributing to
00:27its effective bankruptcy declared in September 2023. Equal pay liabilities were estimated at
00:34ÂŁ760 million. This agreement is a major step towards resolving these liabilities and fostering
00:42improved industrial relations. The cabinet is expected to formally approve the settlement
00:48on the 17th of December. The agreement is seen as a turning point for the council
00:53as it works towards financial recovery and equitable pay for all employees.