Local Government in Crisis: More Than 20,000 Welsh Council Jobs Cut Over 13 Years

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Wales Councils Cut Over 20,000 Jobs Since 2012, GMB Study Finds

A recent study by the GMB union has revealed that councils across Wales have shed more than 20,000 jobs since 2012, highlighting a significant reduction in local government staffing levels. Data from the Office for National Statistics shows that the number of council workers in Wales fell from 153,934 in 2012 to 132,205 in 2024, a decline of 21,729 positions, representing over 14% of the workforce.

Rhondda Cynon Taff experienced the steepest losses, with more than 2,750 jobs cut, equating to a 22% reduction in staff. Other areas such as Bridgend and Flintshire have also seen substantial decreases.

These figures come amid ongoing pay negotiations between unions and the Local Government Association, following a recent 3.2% pay offer to council workers.

Kevin Brandstatter, GMB National Officer, condemned the cuts, stating: “These figures are clearly appalling and show the deep and lasting damage austerity has done to our country.” He stressed the vital role council workers play, saying, “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.”

Brandstatter also highlighted the pressures facing council staff amid rising living costs: “GMB members working in local government face huge pressures, with the cost-of-living rocketing. They deserve a decent pay rise.”

While this report focuses on Wales, a broader GMB study shows that councils across England and Wales have lost nearly 600,000 staff since 2012, underscoring a nationwide trend of significant workforce reductions in local government.