Approximately 160 staff will benefit from the rise backdated to April.

The agreement also includes a 4% increase in stand-by payments and double time for Sunday payments.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Unite has successfully negotiated a good pay deal which boosts basic pay and allowances. It’s another win which shows that we are continuing to lift the standard of jobs, pay and conditions for our SBHA membership.”

Unite represents trades workers including joiners, painters, plumbers, plasterers, electricians, and roofers along with office-based staff at SBHA. 

As part of the deal, Unite successfully secured the introduction of a medical cash plan for staff. The scheme will provide financial support towards a range of everyday healthcare costs including dental, optical and physiotherapy care. 

Unite industrial officer, Esther O’Hara, added: “The SBHA workers provide valuable and essential services across the borders. We are pleased to have successfully negotiated a pay package which reflects this skilled work, and that it was ultimately backed by our membership.”

An SBHA spokesperson told Scottish Housing News: “We’re pleased to have reached agreement with our recognised trade unions on this year’s pay award. The settlement reflects the valuable contribution our colleagues make to delivering services for tenants and communities across the Scottish Borders, and we appreciate the constructive engagement from everyone involved.”