LIFTING low-paid women out of in-work poverty must be at the heart of the next Welsh government’s plans, Unison Cymru urged today. 

Launching its Senedd election manifesto, the union said improving pay in social care and schools is central to tackling poverty and strengthening public services. 

Women make up the majority of staff in both sectors and have been hit hardest by years of low pay, it said.

Unison has called for a fully funded fair pay agreement, with a £15 minimum hourly rate in social care, a new body to negotiate pay for school support staff and an end to term-time-only pay.

Years of tight budgets and rising demand have left services under pressure and staff overstretched, according to the union.

Fair pay and sustained investment would strengthen local economies and improve care for patients, pupils and families, it said. 

Unison Cymru convener Jan Tomlinson said: “After years of austerity and rising costs, staff in hospitals, schools and social care are under real strain. 

“Too many are doing more with less, while demand continues to grow. 

“Strong public services are not a luxury. They’re what give children the best start, families pride in where they live and older people dignity in care.”

Unison Cymru regional secretary Jess Turner said: “When [public] services are outsourced, wages and conditions are squeezed so profit can be taken out. 

“That weakens care, undermines standards and takes money away from local communities.”

“Properly funded, publicly delivered services for communities, not private profit, are the foundation of a fair, confident and prosperous nation.”

Wales will vote on May 7 in its seventh devolved general election.