Barnet UNISON Statement on Staff Parking Charges

Barnet UNISON Statement on Staff Parking Charges

Barnet UNISON is very disappointed with the council’s decision to reintroduce parking charges for staff from 1 October.

We know that many of our members rely on their car to carry out their jobs – especially those visiting schools, residents and multiple sites in the borough. Introducing additional charges at a time when staff are already struggling with the cost of living crisis will only add to the financial pressure on our workforce.

While the council has acknowledged that the majority of staff who responded to the consultation opposed these proposals, they have nonetheless decided to press ahead. This raises serious questions about how much weight was given to staff feedback during the process.

We are particularly concerned about:

• The impact of these charges on lower-paid staff.
• The fairness of expecting staff to cover the costs of council lease arrangements while no subsidy is provided for other forms of travel.
• The practical consequences for staff whose roles require frequent travel during the working day.
• The effect these additional costs will have on morale, recruitment and retention.

Barnet UNISON will continue to make these concerns known directly to the Chief Executive and the Leader of the Council. To strengthen our case, we need to hear from you.

👉 Please email us your views on this decision to contactus@barnetunison.org.uk . Let us know what it will mean for you personally – whether in terms of your ability to carry out your role, your finances, or your wellbeing. We will ensure that members’ experiences are shared with senior management and elected councillors.

Your feedback is crucial. The more voices we have, the stronger we can be in challenging the impact of these charges on staff.

In solidarity,
Barnet UNISON