UNISON calls on Kent County Council (KCC) to increase mileage payments from 45p to 55p per mile.

KCC workers use their own cars every day to deliver essential public services across Kent, including visiting vulnerable residents, supporting children and families, and carrying out vital community work.

In April 2026 HMRC increased the recommended mileage allowance rate to 55p per mile, yet Reform-led KCC is yet to adopt this recommendation whilst the cost of fuel continues to skyrocket. That’s 10p per mile coming out of workers’ pockets delivering public services that Kent's residents and the council rely on.

KCC workers seem to be the only workers out of pocket. Local district councils in Kent have all responded to the change in HMRC's approved mileage rate, and neighboring Sussex and Surrey County Councils have followed suit. UNISON is will not tolerate KCC employees receiving worse treatment than employees elsewhere.

UNISON Kent Local Government branch surveyed members and our findings were overwhelming. 99% support increasing the mileage rate from 45p to 55p per mile, 92% reported a moderate or significant financial impact from current mileage arrangements, and 84% believe they are personally subsidising KCC by using their own vehicles for work.
UNISON therefore calls on KCC to:

1. Increase mileage payments to 55p per mile for the first 10,000 business miles, in line with HMRC’s approved rate. Stop making workers subsidise public services.
2. Backdate the increase to 6 April 2026 and repay the 10p per mile difference on qualifying business mileage already undertaken.