GMB workers across Scotland’s colleges have overwhelmingly rejected a pay offer the union has branded a “pay reduction in disguise.”

Backed by Scottish government cash, College Employers Scotland (CES) had tabled an offer of 4.25 per cent this year, followed by 3.4 per cent in 2026-27 and 3 per cent in 2027-28, an offer accepted by both Unite and Unison.

Eighty-five per cent of GMB college members have voted to reject the deal as the union’s senior organiser Keir Greenaway warned: “This three-year offer is lower than inflation in its first and best year with the gap only likely to widen in later years.

“This is not a pay offer but, in real terms, a pay reduction in disguise and our members in colleges deserve better.

“The work of our members could not be more important and it is beyond time for it to be properly respected, valued, and fairly rewarded.”

Making clear their intention to impose the deal however, a CES spokesperson said: “Although GMB members rejected the offer in a ballot, there was overwhelming support from Unison and Unite members.

“This means a pay agreement can now proceed under the terms of national collective bargaining for Scotland’s colleges.

“This is a fair, sustainable deal that supports staff through cost-of-living pressures while remaining affordable for colleges in a very challenging financial climate.”

A Scottish government spokesperson added: “While operational matters around staffing and pay are the responsibility of colleges, we are providing support for the pay deal that was reached between trade unions and the sector.

“For this, we are providing an extra £1.69 million this financial year, followed by an additional £3.3 million next year.”