New GMB Study Revelas Wales has Lost 20,000 Council Workers since 2012

Councils across Wales have lost more than 20,000 staff since 2012, a GMB study shows.

Thirteen years ago, local authorities in the country employed 153,934 workers, according to the Office of National Statistics.

By 2024 the number had plummeted to just 1132,205 – a drop of 21,729 and more than 14 per cent of all jobs.

Rhondda Cynon Taff was the worst hit council, losing more than 2,750 workers – or 22 per cent of total staff – followed by Bridgend and Flintshire.

The figures emerge as GMB and other unions digest the local government pay offer of 3.2 per cent made to workers this week.

Kevin Brandstatter, GMB National Officer, said: 

“These figures are clearly appalling and show the deep and lasting damage austerity has done to our country.

“Council workers look after our loved ones, help our children learn, clear away our rubbish and keep our green spaces clean.

“They are the absolute backbone of society and should have had this year’s pay lift already – instead, we have only just received an offer from the Local Government Association.

“GMB members working in local government face huge pressures, with the cost-of-living rocketing.

“They deserve a decent pay rise.”

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Source: GMB analysis of ONS Data at https://www.local.gov.uk/publications/ons-quarterly-public-sector-employment-survey

Image: Bridgend Council Offices