Northumberland bus strikes called off after pay increase agreed
Arriva Northumbria have offered an increase, which union members have agreed to
Strike action on buses in Northumberland has been called off - as Arriva Northumbria offer drivers a substantial pay increase.
Hundreds of workers had voted for industrial action but the employer came back to the negotiating table at the last minute and Unite secured a 6.1 per cent increase for all staff from 21 April 2024. Staff will also receive a £350 lump sum payment.
This pay increase matches the best bus company pay in the region and was achieved through the determination of Unite members and reps in their negotiations with Arriva.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said:
"Unite members at Arriva Northumbria should be congratulated on their hard-fought campaign that has seen them receive a significant and well-deserved pay increase.
"This shows the strength of the union movement and why Unite will always back its members in their disputes with employers who think they can get away with underpaying their staff."
Unite regional officer Dave Telford added:
"The workers at Arriva will be heading to work with their heads held high after this excellent pay victory.
"Unite has refused to allow our drivers and engineers to be underpaid and this is a direct result of their determination to stand firm against their employer."
All remaining industrial action has now been cancelled.