Union warns city council on equal pay claims “which could be worth tens of millions of pounds”

The GMB has demanded that Brighton & Hove Council settle equal pay claims that the union says cover roles across the local authority and could be worth “tens of millions of pounds”.

The union said the claims reference issues dating back several years, adding that Brighton and Hove had been “been made fully aware of the problems, but has taken no action to compensate”.

GMB sent a letter to the council's chief executive and head of HR today (10 June) notifying them of the lodging of the claims, and requesting a meeting.

Lib Whitifeld, GMB Senior Organiser, said: “For years this low paid, predominantly women worker force has been paid less than those in male dominated jobs - jobs rated equivalent under the council’s own job evaluation scheme.

“The money stolen from our members has a significant impact on their day to day lives; they’ve struggled to pay their bills and forced to work longer hours rather than being with their families.

“This council is responsible for not only the loss of pay, but the stolen time and quality of life of these workers.”

Whitfield added: “They must now settle with all members the full amount, set things right for the future and issue a unreserved apology for this appalling discrimination.”

A council spokesperson said: “We have received correspondence from the GMB this morning. We will consider what the union has communicated and will setup a meeting to discuss the issues in due course.”