Staff at the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) are staging a strike today, Friday, December 19, demanding a fairer pay offer after rejecting a 3.2% wage increase proposed for 2025/26. The strike includes employees working at bus stations, interchanges, infrastructure project officers, and customer service teams.
According to UNISON, the union representing the workers, no improvements have been made to the employer’s pay proposal since initial industrial action began with a work-to-rule in October and a prior strike on November 14. The union says the pay rise was due over six months ago, and the offer falls short of what staff deserve given their expanded roles and responsibilities within the authority.
This strike is expected to disrupt transport planning, environmental and housing projects, and community services across the West Midlands. UNISON emphasizes that further industrial action could be avoided if the WMCA returns with a more substantial pay offer.
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Ashley Morley, UNISON West Midlands regional organiser, stated, “Combined authority staff don’t want to take this action, but the employer could have prevented it with a decent pay offer. Our members have adapted to major service changes and taken on extra duties, so their pay should reflect that commitment.”
Donna Rowe-Merriman, UNISON head of transport and environment, added, “The rising cost of living is putting immense pressure on workers. The strike reflects the workforce’s determination to secure fair pay. WMCA managers must respond with a better offer to recognize the essential work these staff do and prevent unnecessary disruption.”