Pay Policy Statement

This policy sets out how we set pay for our employees for the financial year 2026 to 2027.

It aims to give fair and transparent pay and follow the legal requirements under the Localism Act 2011.

Who it applies to

It covers all council employees but not contractors.

Senior employees' pay and benefits

Details salaries and benefits for senior roles, including the Chief Executive and Strategic Directors.

Lowest paid employees pay and benefits

Defines the lowest pay grade and ensures alignment with the 'real living wage'.

How pay is decided

Salaries are based on a structured pay scale.

Annual pay awards follow national agreements for local government employees.

Performance-related pay is not used, but pay progression depends on meeting performance and training targets.

Transparency and approval of pay

Pay policies must be reviewed and approved by Full Council annually.

Pay details for senior officers are published online for transparency.

Recruitment and retention of employees

Pay is competitive within the local government sector.

Interim staff may be hired if needed, following strict financial and legal guidelines.

Redundancy pay

Redundancy payments follow statutory rules and do not exceed the legal cap.

Pay ratios

The ratio of median chief officer pay to median employee pay is 2.34, ensuring reasonable pay differences.