Strike action by drivers in Doncaster working for First South Yorkshire has been resolved after Unite members voted to accept a vastly improved pay offer.

Around 230 drivers had taken several days of strike action as they were seeking pay parity with Sheffield-based drivers at the same company. 

Following negotiations, Doncaster drivers have now voted to accept a new pay deal that puts them on an equal footing with their Sheffield counterparts, for example top rate drivers will see pay go up from £14.15 an hour to £15.60 immediately, followed by another pay rise to £16.10 on 31 August. There is also a commitment that drivers will receive the same percentage increase pay offer as Sheffield drivers by 5 April next year.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: "This is another brilliant win for Unite members, who stood firm together in their fight for fairer pay.

"It was by taking industrial action that they were able to improve their pay significantly. It proves there is power in a union."

As well as the pay increases, Doncaster drivers will receive other bonuses including a £850 one-off fixed payment, sick pay from day one and an additional day's leave for those with over five years' service as of 1 April 2026.

Unite regional officer Christian Ratcliffe said: "Our members at First South Yorkshire overwhelmingly voted to accept this good pay deal, which was hard won.

“This win is a reminder that any worker who wants better pay should join Unite and encourage their colleagues to join too.” 

ENDS

For media enquiries ONLY please contact Unite press officer Natasha Wynarczyk on 07970081524

Email: natasha.wynarczyk@unitetheunion.org