Special Responsibility Allowances (SRAs)
Councils are currently reviewing and approving changes to Special Responsibility Allowances to enhance transparency and accessibility.
Hounslow Council approved a revised members' allowances scheme in July 2026, aiming for greater transparency and accessibility by linking additional remuneration to time commitment. In the same month, Waltham Forest councillors approved new Special Responsibility Allowances for leaders and chief whips of qualifying opposition groups, seeking to make public office more accessible and foster cross-party culture.
Greenwich councillors' basic and Special Responsibility Allowances increased in March 2026, aligning with recommendations from the London Councils' Independent Remuneration Panel. Westminster Council also approved amendments to its Members' Allowance Scheme for 2026-27 in June 2026.
Special Responsibility Allowances are additional payments made to councillors who hold specific roles or responsibilities that require a greater time commitment than their basic duties. Councils regularly review these schemes to ensure they reflect current roles and responsibilities.
Key facts
- Hounslow Council approved a revised members' allowances scheme for 2026-27 in July 2026. Source
- Waltham Forest councillors approved new SRAs for opposition group leaders and chief whips in July 2026. Source
- Hounslow's new scheme links additional remuneration to time commitment, using a basic allowance of £15,000 as a benchmark. Source
- Greenwich councillors' basic allowance increased to £15,960 in March 2026. Source
- Greenwich councillors' SRAs increased in March 2026, in line with the annual local government pay settlement. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.