New conditions for Scottish Network Support Grant
Concerns about the mandatory change to the terms and conditions for all Scottish public sector grant payments in relation to Fair Work First, which includes Network Support Grant, have prompted Transport Scotland to organise more on-line engagement sessions.
The NSG conditionality strengthens previous Fair Work First policy set out in current terms and conditions, and applies to every Scottish Government Grant. This means that from 1 April 2024, all grant recipients are required to pay at least the real Living Wage and provide appropriate channels for ensuring an effective workers’ voice. It applies to all directly employed staff of the grant recipient, including 16-18-year-olds and apprentices.
It also applies to any UK-based workers who are not directly employed, but are directly engaged in delivering the grant-funded activity, whether by sub-contractors or agency staff.
Operators will be asked to provide evidence relating to these areas to receive any future grant payments and ensure they are meeting the Fair Work First condition.
More information on Fair Work First guidance can be found on the Scottish Government website. Transport Scotland has already run operator engagement sessions, but further dates have been added for you to ask any questions operators may have about Fair Work First, and also to gather your input on the impact it will have on your business.
The next sessions are planned for:
- Wednesday 13 December, 3pm – 4pm
- Thursday 11 January 12 noon – 1pm
- Tuesday 30 January 12 noon – 1pm
To download the Transport Scotland Newsletter which has LIVE links to the Microsoft Teams meetings when they happen, click Bus Operator Newsletter – December 23