“It is deeply disappointing that UNISON has voted to take strike action. This would cause disruption to our students, particularly as they begin preparing for exams and assessments.

 

“The support staff pay claim for a £5,000 pay increase for all staff would cost colleges more than £35million a year and would increase support staff pay for some workers by 16.5%.

 

“The employers’ offer of a 2% pay increase for support staff is at the limit of what colleges can afford. Colleges nationally are receiving flat cash funding from the Scottish Government. At the same time, costs are increasing significantly, including energy bills and other running costs.

 

“Nevertheless, employers are committed to seeking imaginative, flexible solutions that will allow us to secure an agreement with trade unions so that vital support staff can help colleges continue delivering a world-class learning experience to students.”