The head of the union’s Local Government and Local Services, and Municipal Employees’ divisions, Richy Carrothers, has written to the Local Government Management Authority (LGMA) seeking immediate engagement on measures to support workers, as the fuel crisis continues to bite. 

In the letter Richy welcomed the “proactive steps” taken by the sector but underlined the “immediate and profound difficulties workers are experiencing due to skyrocketing fuel costs.” 

Noting that it is increasingly difficult for workers to get to work, he outlined a range of measures the union is calling for to counteract this. 

These measures include increased application of remote working, emergency suspension of the provisions in the travel and subsistence circulars which move travelling officers into the lower band rates, and exploration of relief measures to offset the unsustainable cost of getting to work when 'in-office' attendance is required. 

Speaking about the need for swift action, Richy said: “The pressure on workers keeps on rising. Spiralling fuel costs, on top of a cost-of-living crisis, have put many members under very real pressure.” 

“Where possible, employers should make it easier for people to work remotely to reduce travel costs, and travelling officers shouldn’t be penalised when they have no choice but to undertake significant journeys for work. We’re urging the LGMA to treat this issue as a priority and meet with us as soon as possible.” 

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