1.3 million council workers and school staff have taken the pragmatic decision to accept a two-year deal worth 2.4% on the pay bill.

GMB members in local government, schools and most academies in England, Wales and Northern Ireland as well as members from the other two local government unions have agreed the pay offer put forward by the Local Government Association.

Over 2 years the deal is worth 2.4% on the pay bill - a 1% increase for most people in 2016 and again in 2017 and between 2.3% and 10.3% for the lower paid (those on spinal point 17 and below). GMB members currently earning £13,614 will see this figure rise to £14,514 from 1 April 2016 and to £15,014 from 1 April 2017. The proposals cover the period from 1 April 2016 to 31 March 2018.

Justin Bowden, GMB National Officer said, "GMB is delighted that the pay round for the 1.3 million staff working for local government, schools and most academies covered by the NJC is finally resolved. In March, GMB members voted by 9 to 1 in favour of accepting the 2-year offer and will be looking forward to getting the increases paid."

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Contact: Justin Bowden on 07710 631351 or GMB press office on 07970 863411 or 07739 182691