Our approach is designed to ensure a motivated, high-performing BBC which delivers for the public who pay for it.

Our public service staff numbers are getting smaller. Last year saw the number of employees fall by over 1,200 – 6% of the total workforce – and senior leader numbers were also down by over 5%.

For 2022/23, we will provide the following which we think is right and fair – we will invest in our people with 4.2% in August followed by 1% in progression later in the financial year. Senior Leaders will not receive an automatic increase, and their pay is subject to a different process.

Inflation is currently running at 7%. This pay deal is below that. The BBC is able to make these awards because we have been cutting staff numbers and saving costs. We would rather have fewer people paid closer to the wider media market. The BBC will never be able to meet the levels of pay at some of our rivals – and nor should we be expected to – but we are operating in a global market for talent, and without that talent, there are no programmes or content.

Last year’s annual pay increase was 1% and in 2020 there was a pay freeze across the BBC.

Tim Davie, Director-General, says: “The BBC is the home of creative excellence and world-beating impartial journalism. We want our staff to thrive, produce their best work and feel valued for their output.

“Last year the number of employees fell by over 1,200. The BBC is smaller but we also need to attract and retain world-class talent, within a reformed, modern and efficient organisation that provides great value to audiences.”

As part of ensuring the BBC reflects best practice as an employer, we will also bring support and flexibility to working lives with:

Support for parents: Consistency of approach for paternity and maternity leave across the BBC for all new parents

Support for carers: Assistance for employees in managing co-ordination of dependant care, a peer support network, and practical advice

Supporting women in menopause: As signatories of the Menopause Workplace Pledge and working in partnership with employees we will raise awareness and advocacy

Support for all staff to develop fulfilling careers at the BBC through career development programmes and training resources