Public service reform proposed by Scottish Government creating “uncertainty” for council workforce, say trade unions and local authorities

In a joint statement, the organisations said that key questions, including about the future of jobs, transfer of staff, and potential impacts on terms and conditions, “remain unanswered” and require “thorough consideration”.

Last month, the Scottish Government published a proposal for reform of local government that would see the current 32 councils replaced by six to ten regional authorities focused on strategic decision-making.

There would then be “a substantial number (120-160)” of community authorities focused on local decision-making. This would deliver “an improved interface for greater community participation”, according to the paper.

In response to the proposals, COSLA and the Local Government trade unions warned that reform must be underpinned by a “strong evidence base” and a “meaningful engagement process”.

The joint statement said: “Close involvement of the workforce, recognised trade unions, and local authority employers must be central to this. Change cannot be imposed from the top down, but must be informed by the voices of those who truly understand the realities of delivering local services.”

The organisations meanwhile outlined a need for “realism” about timescales, adding: “radical reform of local structures, services, and workforces is incredibly complex and would require detailed planning and many years of sustained work alongside significant resource.

“We are clear that any national reorganisation process affecting council employees must be carried out in line with Fair Work principles, including meaningful consultation with staff and respect for collective bargaining.“

The organisations also called for reform to be matched with the investment required to support long-term sustainability.

Scotland’s 32 council leaders will meet again on 30 October to consider their response to the Scottish Government’s three-month dialogue on the future of local governance and what it means for councils.

COSLA’s Resources Spokesperson, Cllr Kelly Parry said: “Public service reform must be evidence-based and underpinned by meaningful engagement with the local government workforce, realism about timescales and the complexities of reform, and the investment required to support the long-term sustainability of services. 

“Our joint message as local government employers and trade unions is clear and we stand ready to engage constructively with the Scottish Government as equal partners.” 

Lottie Winson