RE salaries, pay rises (or lack thereof) and money:
It sounds like people have some very valid opinions, even if we don't all agree exactly.
I'd welcome a gesture, a token increase, considering we've been at work the whole time. Lockdown or not regardless of the amount of passengers, trains still need to be signalled! But, a rise would only ever be relatively small now - not enough to break the already broken bank, nor at a level to see us accused of being mercenaries. This does not mean other jobs do not deserve pay rises too, however.
I consider myself fortunate to be in the grade as the whole "package" is fantastic, certainly compared to previous jobs I've had, but...I see some more experienced signallers who have become accustomed to riding the overtime hard for big wage packets, yet who have also adjusted their spending accordingly - i.e. they earn a lot and spend a lot. Up to them, their choice, their money, they work for it etc. But it does makes me wince on the inside when I hear the spending talk - "...Looking to get a snooker table...", "...I've just ordered a piano..."
- but again, it's somebody else's personal choice, so no criticism from me - maybe I am just tight!
However, my own point of view is this: Harder times economically are undoubtedly ahead, perhaps more drastically in a few months or years, but I'm certain that the ripple affects of the current crisis will be felt for a significant time - so if overtime is offered, I'll take it, as it might not be available as frequently in the future. Save or invest the money, look to create a safety net, an emergency fund, pay off debts or build an alternative income stream. Long term I'd personally like to be able to go into work because I want to, not because I need to...Maybe it's a pipe dream, but a goal to aim for nonetheless!
For anyone who is purchasing pool/snooker tables and/or pianos, I apologise...