The Staffing Committee of Rotherham Council convened on Monday, 10 June 2024, to discuss several key issues, including the approval of the Pay Policy Statement for 2024-25, the Gender Pay Gap Statement for 2023, and the implementation of the Armed Forces Reserves Policy.

Pay Policy Statement 2024/25

The committee reviewed the Pay Policy Statement for 2024-25, which the Council is required to publish under Chapter 8 of the Localism Act 2011. The policy, prepared in accordance with guidance from the Regional Local Government Employers Association, reflects good practice and is forward-looking. It was noted that the Council's pay multiple falls well below the threshold indicated by the Hutton review. The committee accepted the Pay Policy Statement and recommended its approval by the Council on 28 February 2024.

Gender Pay Gap Statement 2023

The committee considered the Gender Pay Gap Statement for 2023, which the Council is required to publish under the Gender Pay Gap Information Regulations 2017. The report highlighted a reduction in the mean gender pay gap from 8.5% to 7.3% and a reduction in the median pay gap from 10.2% to 8.7%. The committee also discussed the pay gaps for Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) employees and disabled employees. The Chief Executive noted ongoing efforts in recruitment and job evaluations to address these gaps. The committee accepted the Gender Pay Gap Statement and approved its publication.

Armed Forces Reserves Policy

The committee reviewed the Armed Forces Reserves Policy, which aims to ensure that the Council's workforce is aware of its commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant Duty. The Council, which signed the Covenant in March 2018 and January 2024, aspires to achieve the Gold award in the employer recognition scheme. The new policy includes provisions for paid time off for Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs). The committee approved the introduction of the Armed Forces Reserves Policy and requested a review of its impacts in 12 months.