Bus operators in Scotland that receive Network Support Grant have been advised to make themselves familiar with upcoming changes to terms and conditions that take account of the Scottish Government’s Fair Work First policy.
From 1 April 2024, that will require all recipients to pay at least the Real Living Wage (RLW), which as of October was £12 per hour. Such a change will apply to all public sector grant payments in Scotland, although “limited exemptions” will be available where the recipient concerned cannot afford to pay RLW.
In the context of Network Support Grant from that date, the recipient must demonstrate that it is paying at least RLW before accessing the funding. It applies to all UK-based staff aged 16 and over, including apprentices, who are directly employed by the grantee.
In addition, all recipients of Network Support Grant from April 2024 will be required to provide appropriate channels for ensuring an effective workers’ voice. Guidance on the Fair Work First policy notes that such a voice should exist “at both collective and individual levels,” although it adds that flexibility may be applied as appropriate.
A bus operator newsletter for December issued by Transport Scotland observes that the changes “conditionally strengthen” previous Fair Work First policy set out in current terms and conditions for Network Support Grant.
Such terms and conditions for 2023-24 advise that recipients “will be expected to have regard to Fair Work First and the Fair Work Framework,” and on request, provide evidence of consideration or reasonable steps taken towards implementing both.
Engagement sessions via Teams on the change are being held by Transport Scotland. The first was on 13 December. Others will follow on Thursday 11 and Tuesday 30 January, both between 1200-1300hrs.
Parties concerned in the change have urged all bus operators in receipt of Network Support Grant to make themselves aware of the updated requirements related to Fair Work First, and advised that where change to wage levels or employment practices are needed, suitable steps are taken quickly.
