National Joint Council agreement addresses cost of living crisis with stable staff getting an average 14.5% pay rise

Within the framework of the National Joint Council (NJC) negotiations, the National Trainers Federation (NTF) and National Association of Racing Staff (NARS) have agreed a minimum wage claim for stable employees across all six pay scales which averages at an inflation-busting 14.5%.

Six pay scales currently cover all stable employees and some of the biggest increases in the minimum rates of pay are at the lower end of the scale which will benefit school leavers newly embarking on a career in racing whose minimum rate increases by 30% to a weekly wage of £250.12, and ‘improvers’ aged 16-17 who gain the biggest rise of 40% to a weekly minimum of £308.00.

The scales remain the minimum rates that can be paid and are not necessarily reflective of earnings as most trainers currently pay above minimum rates. The increases do not apply where an employer is providing subsidised or free housing, although minimum rates will be adhered to.

NARS Chief Executive, George McGrath said: “These pay increases recognise the respect and value the NTF and its members have for the skilled racing staff that work with and for them, and have only been possible to achieve by working closely with Paul Johnson, the Chief Executive of the NTF.

“We have taken a pro-active and collaborative approach to this work and we will be cementing that approach in other areas as we continue to play a role in the development of the industry strategy.”

At the upper end of the scale minimum rates for level six supervisory role rise by 25%.

Full details of pay scales and minimum rates can be viewed here: https://www.naors.co.uk/help/pay-and-expenses/