Children’s social care team managers and deputy managers at Bath and North East Somerset Council have voted overwhelmingly to strike in response to pay regrading that critics say has left morale “shot to bits.” In a ballot that saw a 94% turnout, 100% of respondents supported industrial action, highlighting the depth of dissatisfaction among those responsible for managing children’s services.
The pay regrading placed team managers on the same pay level as some of the staff they supervise, seriously undermining morale and professional recognition. Amy Rushton, UNISON branch chair, emphasized the urgency of the situation: “There’s still time to get back round the table and avoid strike action. But the message from the ballot couldn’t be clearer.”
The council has pledged to maintain essential services during any strike and is continuing negotiations with UNISON to find a fair resolution. Despite ongoing discussions facilitated by ACAS in late 2025, UNISON members rejected the council’s draft agreement. The council remains open to further talks to resolve the dispute without work stoppage.
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The dispute stems from the council’s “Being Our Best” (BOB) programme, which led to widespread role regrading across council departments in 2025. Although BOB increased pay for many, more than 100 roles experienced pay reductions or freezes, leading to widespread discontent. UNISON branch secretary Toni Mayo criticized the unilateral implementation of BOB without worker input, calling it “utter chaos” that has driven many experienced social workers to leave due to unsafe workloads and low morale.
Support for striking social workers was evident during a recent practice picket outside Keynsham Civic Centre, attended by over 40 staff and council supporters. Team manager Claire Luxton, a 15-year veteran of the council, spoke passionately about the commitment of social workers: “We go above and beyond because we love the job, but the council isn’t supporting us.”
Councillor Dave Biddleston echoed these sentiments, noting the importance of fair pay reflecting the high skill, responsibility, and accountability required in social work. He warned that inadequate pay structures harm morale, retention, and ultimately the safety and quality of services for children and families.
As the dispute unfolds, the social care workforce is pushing for recognition, fair compensation, and sustainable workloads to ensure the vital services they provide can continue effectively.