Lowest paid get 13.6 per cent under Unite deal

More than 100 staff at the Stand comedy clubs are to get a bumper pay rise.

Under a deal struck with the Unite union, the lowest-paid workers at the Edinburgh, Glasgow and Newcastle venues will receive pay rises of 13.6 per cent.

Some workers will receive increases of 19.3 per cent due to their pay bands being regraded.

The Stand – co-owned by SNP MP Tommy Sheppard – has long prided itself on treating its staff fairly and in 2019 signed an ‘industry-leading’ agreement that ensured all workers are paid at least the living wage.

It also ensures workers receive paid rest breaks, are not subject to  zero-hours contracts, get full payment for trial shifts, paid transport home after midnight, consultation on rota changes and  100 per cent of tips.

Unite’s lead organiser for hospitality, Bryan Simpson, said: ‘Stand comedy club workers have some of the best wages and terms and conditions in the sector.

‘This in turn benefits Stand, boosting its reputation and ensuring it does not suffer the same high staff turnover rates that afflict many other venues.

"Unite will continue to organise tirelessly across the hospitality industry and we urge those wanting to drive up wages and working conditions to join us.’

And Unite General Secretary Sharon Graham said: ‘This pay deal was achieved because the workers at Stand understood the benefits of joining Unite and getting organised.’

The one-year pay deal was negotiated without industrial action.

Other directors of The Stand also include comedians Miles Jupp and Paul Sneddon, who performs as Vladimir McTavish and retired football manager turned alcoholic pundit, Bob Doolally, plus radio producer Richard Melvin of  Dabster Productions.

Published: 27 Feb 2024