Update on Tate Galleries dispute
Since 30 September, PCS has been in dispute with Tate Galleries over the employer’s failure to offer an above-inflation pay award for a second consecutive year.
PCS remains committed to working with the employer to resolve the dispute. Following a meeting between both parties on 4 December, Tate Galleries has agreed to produce a series of proposals on how to resolve the dispute.
Tate has been clear they cannot afford a further increase to the 3% pay award for 2025/26 due to their financial position. The organisation’s accounts from 2024/26, for example, revealed a deficit of £5million.
The organisation has blamed a reduction in grant-in-aid funding, Covid-19, and Brexit for a reduction in their revenue during Maria Balshaw’s tenure as director. However, concerns remain about financial mismanagement at Tate.
Tate Galleries are due to put forward proposals for better terms and conditions to PCS by 9 January 2026. This will be followed by a meeting between PCS and Tate Galleries on 12 January.
While PCS welcomes the move for better terms and conditions for workers, we are continuing to push for an inflation-proof pay rise with an element of restoration.
Should the proposals put forward by Tate Galleries be rejected, PCS will consider further industrial action in the new year.