Local councils in England and Wales have lost almost a third of their workforce over the past decade, according to new data released by the GMB union.
The findings highlight the long-term impact of austerity measures on public services and local government staffing.
The research reveals that since 2012, nearly 600,000 council roles have been cut. Thirteen years ago, local authorities employed around 1.89 million workers. By 2024, that number had dropped to just over 1.29 million — a decrease of more than 31%.
Birmingham City Council, the UK’s largest local authority, was identified as the most affected, having shed almost 27,000 jobs. Other councils with significant losses include Derbyshire and Staffordshire.
These cuts come at a time when demand for local services continues to grow. From social care and education to waste collection and parks maintenance, council workers play a crucial role in supporting communities across the country.
The figures were released as the GMB and fellow unions enter negotiations with the Local Government Association (LGA) over pay claims for 2025–26. Union officials argue that the drastic reduction in staff numbers, coupled with rising living costs, has placed immense pressure on the remaining workforce.
Kevin Brandstatter, GMB’s national officer, emphasised the essential role council workers play in society. He stated that those providing vital services are facing high stress levels and financial insecurity, and he urged local authorities to deliver a fair pay increase without further delay.
The GMB claims the sharp drop in council staffing levels is a direct result of over a decade of austerity-driven budget cuts. Reduced funding from central government has forced many local authorities to scale back services and staffing, leading to job losses and increased workloads for those who remain.
In response, the Local Government Association acknowledged the seriousness of the staffing crisis. A spokesperson noted that local government jobs have never been more important, particularly as councils deliver hundreds of essential services every day.
The LGA warned that widespread staff shortages could compromise the delivery of key public services and urged the government to invest more in local government to help councils meet both their responsibilities and national policy goals.
As negotiations begin for the 2025–26 pay deal, unions are expected to push for meaningful wage increases and better working conditions to prevent further erosion of the local government workforce.
The call for increased funding and recognition of the role local authorities play in daily life comes amid growing pressure on public services and economic uncertainty across the UK.
