More than 15,000 back Unison Cymru calls to end term-time only pay

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They include at least 9,000 school workers who have signed the union’s petition calling on the Welsh government and councils to agree and fund a country-wide plan to end term-time-only pay.

Many teaching assistants, admin staff, catering workers, cleaners and technicians are paid for the weeks they work during the school year, with the resulting lower annual salary spread across 12 months.

A school support worker in Denbighshire said: “The cost of living doesn’t stop during the school holidays, but the money still has to stretch across the whole year. It can be a constant worry trying to make ends meet.

“Being paid across 52 weeks would give staff much greater financial security. It would mean not having to worry so much about everyday costs and would make a real difference to families.”

Unison Cymru regional secretary Jess Turner said: “School support staff are vital to children’s education and the smooth running of schools, yet many are still expected to get by on an annual salary based on only part of the year.

“More than 15,000 people have backed their call for change. The Welsh government and councils must now agree a funded plan to end term-time-only pay across Wales.

“These are essential public service jobs. Staff deserve proper recognition and fair wages for the work they do supporting children, families and communities.”

The Welsh government has been contacted for comment.