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Overview

Welcome to Neighbourhoods, Regeneration and Sustainability Staff Updates Area where you will find the latest staff news and key information and advice to support you.

This dedicated service area provides important localised information and also provides health and wellbeing resources offering lots of top tips and advice to help your mental wellbeing. 

September 2024

Tuesday 10 September 2024

World Suicide Prevention Day - Let's Talk

Today is World Suicide Prevention Day - the chance for organisations and communities around the world to come together to raise awareness and campaign for better suicide prevention.

1 in 5 of us will experience suicidal thoughts at some point in our lives. But a recent poll found that only 45% people feel comfortable talking to family and friends about suicidal thoughts, compared to 74% who feel comfortable talking about mental health.*

By getting everyone talking more openly about suicide, we can give people the chance to express how they feel and get the support they need - it could even safe a life.

Join us in standing with @samaritanscharity this #WorldSuicidePreventionDay and together let'shelp ditchthe stigma and talk about it - as suicidal thoughts are far more common than most people know.

Starting the conversation

We know how hard it can be to find the right words to talk openly about how we're feeling. But when someone is dealing with difficult thoughts or worries - having someone there to listen can make a real difference.

You don't have to be an expert, just being there to listen and showing you care can help someone work through what's troubling them. There are top tips on how to start a conversation, in a quiet safe space, with someone you may be worried about, on the Samaritans website with their 'Finding a way to say it' information sheets. For example, by using open questions that need more than a yes and no answer such as "how do you feel?".

You can read more about how to find a way to say it on the charity's website.

Join-Us

You can also join in today's lunchtime online webinar (1pm to 1.30pm) with PAM Wellness on'suicide awareness and prevention: breaking silence and building support' - login details are on our Join us - staff training and events webpage.

Do you need help right now?

Remember, you're not alone - if you need to talk to someone right now you can:

• contact our Employee Assistance Provider, PAM Assist free on: 0800 247 1100, Webchat or email.
• call the Samaritans free on 116 123 (available 24/7), or click the link to find out other ways of getting in touch.
• call Breathing Space free on 0800 83 85 87 (6pm to 2am on weekdays, 24 hours at the weekends).
• More information at If you need help now.

* Opinium survey conducted between 9-13 February 2024, with a nationally representative sample of 2,001 UK adults. - source Samaritans

Tuesday 3 September 2024

Job Evaluation Update

Colleagues,

I want to provide you with an update on job evaluation and the latest plans for a new pay and grading structure.

The main messages for you in this communication can be summarised as:

• Job Evaluation information on Primary Benchmark jobs is being shared with the joint Operational Steering Group. This is a very important and positive step in the programme.
• Council and Trade Unions agree that the implementation date previously targeted must be revised to ensure we get the new arrangements right.
• This will mean that your pay will not be changing in February 2025 as previously indicated.
• We want to be sure that we have high confidence before confirming a revised target date - we will do this as quickly as we can and keep you updated at every stage.
• When we finalise the pay and grading structure, we will tell you what this will mean for you.  At that stage we will confirm
  • Whether you are due any backdated pay. This will apply from October 2023.
  • Whether you will be due any elements of pay protection and what this means for you.
• The council and the Trade Unions are committed to completing this work as soon as possible and ensuring we pay equally for work of equal value. 

As we all know, job evaluation is the foundation for our future pay and grading structure (PGS) and the way we meet our aim to make sure we pay equally for work of equal value. The council and Trade Unions are committed to achieving this aim with all possible haste and integrity.  

Our colleagues in the Job Evaluation Team, which includes nominees from the three recognised Trade Unions, have been working to finalise the evaluation of Primary Benchmark jobs - these are the most common jobs in the council family, covering around 80% of employees in scope. The scale of this task is significant and work continues to evaluate Secondary Benchmark and Unique roles.

We can now confirm that the initial information on the evaluations of Primary Benchmark jobs will be provided to the JE Operational Steering Group (OSG - a joint forum of TU Reps and Service/ALEO management). This will allow consultation to start in earnest between Trade Unions and the council on the new PGS, following a period of dialogue at the OSG. 

Delivering the Primary Benchmark information is a key milestone on our route to a new Pay and Grading Structure, but regrettably we have not met our planned timescale. This means that we will need to revise our date for the implementation of the new pay and grading structure which cannot now take place in February 2025. 

The council, Trade Union colleagues and our Independent Technical Advisor all understand the need to amend the implementation date and agree that it is essential. This is due to the scale and complexity of the work required and to ensure the integrity of the process and outcomes. 

I want to be very open with you about the challenges we face in setting a new implementation date at this point. We have started evaluations of Secondary and Unique roles but at this stage it is it is only possible to estimate the timescales for completion; we must allow sufficient time for Trade Union consultation and give us all the best chance of reaching an agreement on the new arrangements.     

Progress depends on efforts and input from everyone involved, including employees, service management, Trade Union colleagues and the Programme Team. We will work closely with Trade Union colleagues to ensure revised detailed plans include their input and we will update you on progress at each milestone stage.

May I reassure you as previously communicated, when we finalise the council's proposed pay and grading structure, we will tell you what this will mean for you, on an individual basis and confirm any elements of pay protection and back dating of pay, to the effective date of 15 October 2023, which are appropriate to you.

I know that this could be an unsettling period for you, but I want to stress that this delay is necessary to meet our commitment to paying everyone equally for equal work - everyone is committed to moving this forward and I will let you know as soon as possible when we can confirm timescales for delivery. Spending appropriate time on evaluating jobs through consistent and thorough job evaluation, in consultation with trade unions, is an essential part of meeting this commitment. 

More information

There are frequently asked questions on the website here, if you have questions, you can email me at Ask Susanne and I will make sure these are considered. Remember, we can't answer questions about individual outcomes yet, as we're not at this stage.

August 2024

Supporting one another at this current time

Glasgow is a proud, diverse and above all welcoming city and as an organisation these are core values that we reinforce through our commitment to promote a positive and inclusive workplace. We want all our staff to feel safe, respected, valued and supported.

Susanne Millar, Chief Executive wrote to all staff earlier in the month to reassure you there is no heightened risk in Glasgow to suggest that we will experience any disorder from anti-immigrant protests - as seen recently in other parts of the UK. Susanne has been in regular contact with Police Scotland's Divisional Commander, since the start of trouble in other areas of the UK, and they will advise us if there is any intelligence to suggest a change to this locally and we will share information with staff as quickly as possible. 

We understand that some of you may be feeling more anxious than normal - and even scared at times with what has been happening. Whilst you may not be directly involved, watching these events can trigger memories or feelings and can be traumatic and disturbing for you. This can have an impact on your mental wellbeing. We also know that some staff may also be concerned about travelling to work or whilst at work.

We want you to know that at times like this we are keen to support you. Please be assured that your welfare is very important to us, and we fully appreciate that it is through you, that we can continue to deliver the vital services our citizens depend upon.

The following provides some key information on support routes, events/information and top tips to help your wellbeing at this time.

Colleagues

As colleagues we can all support one another.

• Take time to look out for your colleagues who may need a little extra support and feel vulnerable at this time.
• Perhaps take time to connect over a coffee in your lunch break or check in on Teams for a chat.
• Reaching out to your colleagues to show support will help them to feel valued and heard and help them open up about how they are feeling - whatever the circumstances.

Reach out for support if you need to talk to someone

• Speak to your manager about any issues or concerns that you have - they can help identify the right support routes for you.
• You can also contact our Employee Assistance Provider in complete confidence, 24/7 about anything that is playing on your mind - freephone 0800 042 0135.
• Connect with our staff networks for a safe space to chat to colleagues who may be feeling the same way as you - such as our BME or PRISM. You could attend the forthcoming BME events shown below.
• Talk to a trade union representative.

Our core policies

• Our employment policies are there to help protect and support you - Bullying and Harassment (PDF) [375KB] (opens new window) and our Violence at work - unacceptable actions (PDF) [375KB] (opens new window)
• Take time to re-familiarise yourself with these and understand that we are committed to providing a safe and secure place for you to work and harassment, bullying or victimisation of any kind are unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

Hate Crime

• Please understand how to recognise a Hate Crime and learn how to report it at www.hatecrimeglasgow.org 

Managers

• Please be aware of how members of your team may be feeling at this time.
• Consider how staff may be feeling vulnerable during the working day and when commuting.
• Please offer support routes and solutions to support their concerns - such as attending an external meeting with a colleague and not alone.

Be kind to yourself

• If you are feeling anxious - take time to do things that you enjoy to help your mental wellbeing.
• For example, going for a walk to connect with nature, spending time with a loved one or even getting a good rest to recharge your energy levels.
• Our workforce wellbeing page has lots of dedicated health and wellbeing support routes and information.

Citizens

• With over 60% of our workforce living in Glasgow we also have a dedicated page on our website to signpost, advise and guide our citizens looking for additional support at https://glasgow.gov.uk/supportforcommunities.
• This webpage provides key information for our citizens and direct support links to key organisations in times of need.

Whatever the situation is that makes us feel anxious - understand that we are all in this together to support one another, and there are many support routes open to you. 

Read our staff wellbeing handbook at www.glasgow.gov.uk/workforcewellbeing

July 2024

Updated COSLA pay offer for staff - 2024 to 2025

Yesterday, COSLA (the umbrella body that represents Scottish councils and trades unions) made a new pay offer to the Scottish Joint Council trade unions for all council employees.

This new pay offer proposes a 3.2% increase across all grades and pay points and covers the current financial year from 1 April 2024 to 31 March 2025.

COSLA have indicated that this offer is:

• worth more than the first year of the Scottish Government's current Public Sector Pay Policy
• higher than current inflation (CPI)
• at the very limit of affordability for councils in the current challenging financial circumstances 
• is a strong, fair and credible pay offer, reflecting the high value council Leaders place on the Local Government workforce and the invaluable work they do every day serving communities across Scotland.  

COSLA has asked Trades Unions to consult their members on the new offer.

Trade Unions will be seeking the views of their members on this improved offer made by COSLA.

What would this offer mean for Glasgow City Council staff?

The table below shows the current rates of pay alongside the proposed rates as part of this pay offer.  

April 2024

Staff health, wellbeing, equality and diversity training and events

You can view the full calendar of staff training and events on offer each month on our website. The page is regularly updated with new content so please check back often.

March 2024

Latest News and Service Updates for the month of March:

Friday 15 March 2024

Scottish Action for Mental Health (SAMH) Virtual Workshop, Tuesday 2 April 2024 from 10am until 12 noon, MS Teams: Register Here

This workshop will provide participants with a brief introduction to suicide prevention while exploring the latest statistics in relation to suicide in Scotland and the stigma that exists around this topic. Participants will also explore how to contribute to breaking down this stigma and develop the confidence to support someone who is having thoughts of suicide to seek the appropriate support.

This course will cover:

• Prevalence and the impact of suicide in Scotland
• Signs that someone may be having thoughts of suicide and helpful ways to ask the question should you spot these signs
• Boundaries within the remit of your role when providing support to someone having thoughts of suicide
• The importance of keeping yourself safe
• Appropriate signposting to organisations that can offer support, both for the individual having thoughts of suicide and for yourself

Please note, this course is not designed for crisis support and we cannot guarantee a confidential, safe space due to the nature of group video conferences.

If you or someone you know needs to talk to someone visit- If you need help right now.

For wellbeing resources and support visit: www.glasgow.gov.uk/workforcewellbeing

If you have any issues in signing up please contact NRSAnnouncements@glasgow.gov.uk or william.holms@glasgow.gov.uk

February 2024

Latest News and Service Updates for the month of February:

Monday 26 February 2024

Real Living Wage Increase

The Real Living Wage (formerly known as the Glasgow Living Wage) increases to £12.00 per hour from 1 April 2024. 

We will apply this new hourly rate to the salaries of all Grade 1 employees from 1 April 2024 with the first payment received in 2 April 2024 pay.   

This increase is in advance of the 2024 to 2025 pay settlement. When that is reached we will update all staff as soon as possible with the changes and any back dated pay at Grade 1 will be for any increase above the £12.00 per hour rate.

Thursday 1 February 2024

CHIEF EXECUTIVE ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT

Annemarie O'Donnell will leave the City Council later this year.

Annemarie has told Council Leader Susan Aitken that she will step down in May, after almost a decade in post and more than 30 years in local government in Glasgow.

Recruitment for a new Chief Executive will begin immediately, with Annemarie's successor appointed before she leaves the City Chambers.

Annemarie said: "I've been privileged to have had the opportunity to serve our city for longer than I could ever have imagined when I joined the District Council more than 30 years ago - and fortunate to share nearly my whole my working life with people that have been so dedicated to Glasgow and its people.

"But, I was still in my forties when I was appointed Chief Executive and, since then, nearly a decade has passed in the blink of an eye.

"It's not a job that really allows you time or capacity to do or even think about much else and, when I look forward to the next ten years, I want to be able to start making room in my life for other things.

"Everybody knows that local government has faced extraordinary challenges in recent years and I think it would be a mistake for any of us to imagine that isn't going to continue.

"However, every day, I work with colleagues who are innovative and resilient; totally committed to this city, and formidable leaders in their own right.

"Whoever follows me will be ready to meet those challenges, with a great team alongside them."

Council leader Susan Aitken said: "It's difficult to overstate Annemarie's contribution to Glasgow during her long career at the council, and particularly as Chief Executive.

"Her calm demeanour belies a real passion for the city and determination to make things better, especially for our residents and communities who face the biggest challenges.

"In a big city, there's not a day goes by without some new issue being thrown up, often very daunting ones.

"Annemarie's professionalism, her focus on problem-solving and partnership-building, her trust in her team to deliver, her willingness to face tough decisions head on, and her compassion for those who'll be affected by those decisions, have helped to see Glasgow through everything from major fires to a global pandemic.

"On a personal level, I've really enjoyed my close working relationship with Annemarie these past six-and-a-half years. I've learned a lot from her and I'll miss her very much. But I'm also looking forward to working with the next generation of professional leadership in what is the most challenging and exciting non-elected job in Scottish local government

Annemarie began her local government career with Glasgow District Council some 33 years ago, working as a solicitor and then senior solicitor in a team focusing on construction, housing and planning.

Following local government reorganisation in 1996, she was promoted to Chief Solicitor at the newly-established Glasgow City Council.

In 2003, Annemarie was appointed Assistant Head of Legal and Administrative Services and later spent two years on secondment as Depute Director of Social Work Services.

She returned to Corporate Services in 2007, serving as Assistant Director and later Director, before succeeding George Black as Chief Executive at the end of 2014. She was awarded an OBE for services to local government in 2022.

January 2024

Latest News and Service Updates for the month of January:

Tuesday 16 January 2024

It's more than just one day - let's get talking!

Our mental health is just as important as our physical health. Being able to normalise conversations about how we are feeling and chat openly about it, can empower others to start talking and seek the support they need.

Around one in four of us will experience mental health problems at some point in our lives, yet people are still afraid to talk about it. Often, we will automatically say 'Not too bad' when people ask how we are, without even thinking.

Thursday 1 February 2024 - 'Time to Talk' Day - is the perfect opportunity to start a conversation and chat openly and informally in the workplace about our mental health. It can help to break down stereotypes and improve relationships.

Our approach

As an official workplace partner of See Me, we're supporting this years' Time to Talk by encouraging all staff to spark a conversation with a colleague across the whole week. Having a mental health problem is nothing to be ashamed of, and neither is talking about it. One of the best ways to start the healing process is to share how you are feeling and seek support from someone. It really does help and can have a positive impact on your work and home life.

So, from Monday 29 January to Friday 2 February 2024 we encourage all staff to take time out to chat about mental health with a colleague - perhaps over a cuppa. This can make a real difference and show someone you care simply by listening. Making your catch up a regular occurrence too can have a positive lasting effect.  Managers are asked to support staff to allow time for these conversations to take place.

Need top tips to start your chat?

Join us online on 24 January at 11.30am - 12 noon for our 'how to have a conversation about mental health' webinar, delivered in partnership with SAMH, to learn top tips on how to start a supportive and compassionate mental health conversation. Sign up here 

Want to share your stories about how it made you feel to connect and chat with a colleague? Email YourHealthandWellbeing@glasgow.gov.uk

More information at See Me | Time to Talk. View our  Mental Health Support Routes Poster (PDF) [304KB] (opens new window)  which includes quick links and QR codes to all the support available to you at Workforce wellbeing support - Glasgow City Council.

Related Content

Related Articles

• Archived Blogs
• NRS Loop
• Workforce Wellbeing Support
• If you need help right now
• Job Evaluation Update
• Staff Updates