f. Pay, contracts and pensions and gratuities

Under s.112 of the Local Government 1972 a council can set salaries at whatever reasonable level they see fit.  Councils should note that there is a national agreement based on the characteristics of a local council designed to assist them to evaluate the role.   Councils should also note that from April 2020 holiday pay for employees working irregular hours must be calculated using a 52 week reference period.

The Pension Act 2008 requires every employer in the UK to put certain staff into a workplace pension scheme and contribute towards it.  If you employ at least one person you are an employer and you have certain legal duties relation to pensions.

Further guidance can be found on the NALC Legal Topic Note 79 available from the link above.  We also recommend councils check the Pension Regulator website for further information.  Use this link to access.

SALC has a comprehensive information page covering payroll as well as a payroll service councils can opt into using for an additional charge - guidance on payroll | SALC Website