Any hope that the employer would engage with GMB union early have been dashed - now staff must make legal claims
Brighton and Hove Council has refused to talk to workers about their multi million pound equal pay claim, GMB Union has said.
GMB members at the council have submitted equal pay claims on the advice of their union.
The claims relate to historic underpayment of roles within the council, predominantly carried out by women.
In less than a week, the deadline to submit claims - potentially worth thousands of pounds each - will expire.
As part of the equal pay process GMB has not only written to the council requesting talks but also asked the Government's independent conciliation service Acas to facilitate talks.
To date the council has refused to engage with GMB or Acas.
Lib Whitfield, GMB Senior Organiser said:
“Brighton and Hove City Council claims it wants to act transparently with their employees and GMB, but has done nothing but send out misinformation to staff
“It raises significant alarm bells that the council was so quick to tell staff there was no need to make legal claims against them whilst refusing to meet with GMB. Now the claim deadline looms.
“Actions speak louder than words; the actions of the council suggests it wants to cover up the equal pay claims and encourage staff not to make a claim, rather than negotiating settlements.
“GMB urges Brighton and Hove staff to get in touch with GMB and protect their legal position by filling out our claim form today.
