Leaders of 250,000 further education staff, including lecturers, librarians and cleaners, today submitted a claim for a 6% pay rise which would establish a minimum wage of £7.38 an hour.
Six unions said the increase, covering staff in England, was needed so that workers could “catch up” after being awarded a below inflation rise last year.
The unions said some colleges failed to implement last year’s deal, leading to a “double whammy” for workers.
Barry Lovejoy, national officer of the University and College Union, said: “We want a better deal for further education staff which matches the rise in prices and the contribution members make to our colleges.
“The recommended award this year was well below inflation and an effective pay cut for staff. This claim seeks to make up the shortfall.”
Christine Lewis of Unison added: “College staff are part of a community of public service workers who are entitled to a fair pay deal and they are determined to get one.
“Further education is the driver for the Government’s skills agenda which is impossible to deliver if you have a low-paid, demoralised workforce.”
The claim, which also covers lab technicians, catering and security staff, is in defiance of the Government’s aim of a three-year pay deal in the public sector of around 2% a year.