Unison members at the National Coal Mining Museum in Wakefield have ended their long running dispute with the charity after staff voted to accept a new pay offer.

The union said the new offer is “significantly improved” and will see wages rise by 10.5%, meaning mine guides will see their pay increased from £12.86 to £14.21 an hour.

This is more than double the initial pay offer last year of a 5% wages boost.

The strike action began in August 2025 and had involved more than 40 workers at the museum.

“It’s fantastic news that these dedicated workers can return to what they love doing – telling the stories of coal mining and keeping the history alive for future generations,” said Unison Yorkshire and Humberside regional organiser Rianne Hooley.

“It’s just a shame this deal has taken so long to reach.

“Staff have been keen to explore different options to get the dispute resolved but have continually been met with resistance.”

Hooley said that one stumbling block had been concerns over the museum adding “disciplinary clauses into pay deals” and “getting those removed has added months onto negotiations”.

She added: “Staff have chosen to accept the pay offer so they can get back to work and protect the museum. Securing its long-term future on behalf of the public has always been their main priority.”

The National Coal Mining Museum has been contacted for comment.

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