Council row over equal pay erupts

Almost 400 women are claiming millions of pounds in compensation against two Black Country councils in a row over equal pay, it has been revealed.

If they succeed, the councils will face a £6.5million bill.

The number of women taking legal action against Sandwell Council in a High Court row over equal pay has risen to 88, with dozens more expected to follow, while Wolverhampton City Council is facing claims from 300.

If they all succeed, Sandwell Council could be forced to shell out up to £2.5million of taxpayers' cash and Wolverhampton £4million.

Former workers are claiming thousands of pounds each after consulting lawyers.

Last month there were 70 women from Sandwell confirmed to be pursuing the claim but solicitors said today that 88 were now signed up. The number of claims against Wolverhampton has risen from 250 to 300 and Birmingham City Council faces 200 claims.

Cleaners, cooks, catering staff, home care assistants, care assistants and dinner ladies believe they were unlawfully denied bonuses.

Sandwell Council made offers in September to compensate mainly women workers who lost out on bonuses that were paid out in jobs often filled by men.

Only workers who were still in the job or who had left within the previous six months were eligible for offers up to £28,000.

Sandwell deputy leader Councillor Pauline Hinton would not comment.