The union claims the action is likely to create disruption across the transport network in Manchester, but say an improved pay offer would stop the action
15:38, 05 Nov 2025Updated 15:46, 05 Nov 2025
Shudehill Interchange (Image: MEN Media)
Transport for Greater Manchester workers are on strike for two days this week and further walkouts are planned next week.
Staff across the region today (Wednesday, November 5) began the first of two days of strike action this week over pay, says UNISON.
Up to 400 employees belonging to the union who work as route planners, station assistants, engineers, IT experts, administrators, control room operators and cleaners have walked out. They are due to strike again on Friday (November 7).
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In addition, Transport for Greater Manchester staff have been taking part in a work to rule since last Monday (27 October) and there will be further 24-hour strikes next week, on Wednesday (12) and Friday (14 November). Hundreds of Unite workers will also be taking industrial action alongside their colleagues who belong to UNISON.
Shudehill Interchange (Image: MEN Media)
The union claims the action is likely to create disruption across the transport network in Manchester, but say an improved pay offer would stop the action.
However transport bosses say trams and buses will continue to run and that all interchanges will be open although some toilets and ticket offices may close.
Workers have already voted overwhelmingly to reject a 3.2% pay offer. They were due a rise more than six months ago, says Unison. The union’s TfGM branch secretary, Tony Wilson, said: “These dedicated and hard-working staff have made major changes to the network possible. They’ve taken on more responsibilities and risen to every challenge, yet their pay has been steadily eroded.
“They deserve respect and fair pay. UNISON is keen to resolve this dispute and urges the employer to come forward with a fair and decent offer.”
Unison general secretary, Christina McAnea, said: “Staff would much rather be doing the jobs they care about and serving their communities. But they’ve been left with no option other than to strike as they continue to be denied a decent, fair pay rise that helps them keep pace with rising bills.”
A continuous action, in addition to strikes, involves staff working to rule, refusing standby and call-out duties, and withdrawing goodwill.
Steve Warrener, Managing Director at TfGM, said: “We’re continuing discussions with the unions and are doing all we can to limit any impact on passengers on strike days. Bus and tram services will run as normal and all our interchanges will be open, but some facilities – such as ticket offices and toilets – may be closed.
“We’re absolutely committed to TfGM being a rewarding place to work and build a career, with good pay, terms and conditions. We’ve made several proposals to the unions. Our current offer particularly supports those on our lowest pay bands, ensuring that no-one earns less than £15.10 per hour, the equivalent to an annual salary of over £29,000.
“But we can’t meet the unions’ ask this year – including a 9 percent pay rise for all staff and a four-day working week with no loss of pay. This would amount to an increase of around 30 percent in our employment costs. In the context of challenging public sector finances, it’s not affordable or sustainable. “
Unite members will also strike on Friday and next Wednesday (November 12). More than 200 workers, who undertake a variety of roles including ticketing, passenger assistance and information services for the bus network, and they too have rejected the 3.2 per cent pay offer.
Unite is also currently balloting 320 Manchester tram drivers employed by Keolis Amey Metrolink, over working conditions and fatigue. The ballot ends on November 11th and any action could bring major disruption to Manchester over the festive period.