Long-running strikes end after workers accept 'fantastic' pay offer

Long-standing strikes at a social housing provider have now ended after union officials announced that their workers had accepted a 'fantastic' pay offer. Livv Housing manages over

13,000 properties across the Liverpool City Region and the North West – primarily in the Knowsley area. The company found itself embroiled in an industrial dispute with union officials last

year, resulting in a seven-month standoff. Initially, Livv Housing proposed a 5% pay rise for staff, but this was rejected by union members. Unison called on the housing association to

address 'the real-terms pay cut of 30% that its staff have experienced since 2011'. Since October 2024, workers have staged numerous strike days in an attempt to secure better

terms from Livv Housing. The protracted nature of the dispute prompted intervention from both Knowsley Council leader, Cllr Graham Morgan, and Knowsley MP, Anneliese Midgley. Ms Midgley

urged Livv Housing to enhance its offer and 'engage meaningfully' in negotiations. The unions and Livv Housing have now reached an agreement, bringing the long-standing strike to

an end, with Unite declaring a victory for its members. A statement from Unite confirmed that the strike action by maintenance workers had ceased following the unions securing a pay deal for

2024/25. Workers voted in favour of an immediate pay rise of 7.7%, along with a £175 non-consolidated payment. Under the new arrangement, matched pension contributions will be boosted from

6% to 10%, and a salary sacrifice pension scheme will be brought in for tax savings benefits. Staff will also gain an additional three days of annual leave each year. Unite General Secretary

Sharon Graham said: "Massive congratulations to our members at Livv Housing who stood strong for eight months to win this fantastic deal. As this result shows, Unite always gives

maximum support to workers fighting for better jobs, pay, and conditions." With immediate effect, there will be a cut in the working week from 40 hours to 39 hours. A joint working

group is to be established with representatives from both the employer and the union to consider a further decrease to 38 hours or even lower over the next 12 months. John Sheppard,

Unite's regional officer, said: "This deal is a real step forward and could not have been achieved without the hard work and dedication of our reps and members. It is a prime

example of why housing workers wanting better wages and working lives should join Unite and get their colleagues to join too." A representative for Livv Housing said: "We are

pleased that our colleagues have returned to work following the unions' recommendation to accept our existing offer. "We take pride in knowing that our pay and benefits package is

one of the most favourable in the sector, reflecting our commitment to our colleagues. Our priority has always been to invest in our homes, support our colleagues, and serve our customers

and communities. "As we move forward, we remain dedicated to working together to continue delivering on that promise." Knowsley Council leader Graham Morgan said: "I am really

pleased that Livv and the unions have reached an agreement that will bring an end to this period of industrial action. "I addressed a full council meeting back in March, offering

support from the council and urging all parties to get back around the negotiating table. I am really pleased that that has happened and a resolution found. "As I said at the time,

prolonged industrial action benefits no one. It's not what anyone wants to see – especially the workforce and tenants – who have all been impacted."