Background
Members may have seen leaflets from the PCS EDS Fylde and Preston Branch concerning a ballot in HP (formerly EDS). EDS was one of the companies who were given IT contracts from the DWP during the 1990’s, there used to be a Information Technology Services Agency (ITSA) in the DSS.
Members in the DWP will be fully aware of the issues of pay cuts and job cuts.
The Dispute in HP
Our sister Branch in EDS has provided the following information about the background of the issues and also why they were leafleting the Norcross site:
“The union’s National Disputes Committee has approved an official industrial action ballot of members in the EDS Branch and the two North East DWP account branches. The ballot covers all members employed by HP, whether or not they currently work on the DWP account.
Prior to confirming the approval, a final approach was made to HP’s Employee Relations Manager to ascertain whether any movement from the company was forthcoming on the two areas of dispute – compulsory redundancies and the across-the-board pay freeze. The response was negative.
The Managing Director, HP UK & Ireland, reported on the completion of the HP-EDS Integration Workforce Management Programme, in which 3242 jobs have been shed in the UK. The figures he gives confirm that 25% of this total, 810 job cuts were made by compulsory redundancy. He goes on to announce a further Workforce Management Programme to be implemented in the first half of 2010, with an estimated 1105 further job cuts, of which 796 are expected to be in HP Enterprise Services (ex-EDS).
The Managing Director, HP UK & Ireland refers to these proposals having followed a European Workers Council meeting in May and a meeting with Employee Representatives on 15th September. He further refers to another meeting with Employee Representatives on 3rd November. At the latter meeting, the company’s representatives declined to give an assurance that there will be no compulsory redundancies.
Some members in HP have commented that the Managing Director, HP UK & Ireland communication appears to be implying that the Works Council and the Employee Representatives (i.e. the union representatives) are somehow party to the decision to cut more jobs. This is not the case. PCS have consistently asserted, at these WFM meetings, that redundancies are neither necessary nor genuine, but are – together with the pay freeze - simply headcount reductions designed to transfer workload to fewer shoulders and to boost HP profits, share values, dividends and senior management bonuses at the expense of its employees.
Kelly Services, an employment agency which holds a number of contracts with HP including supplying operations staff at the SDC, Norcross, was seeking to cut its workers’ pay. We advised of the contractual position relating to pay cuts – which is no different for agency workers - and we advised Kelly’s workers to ‘Just say No’, as HP permanent staff, in overwhelming numbers, had already successfully done so.
We have now learned that Kelly’s have imposed the 2.5% cut.
The letter sent by Kelly’s management to the workers makes it clear that the cuts have been very much driven by HP:
“The global economy and every major corporation within it are under sustained pressure to reduce costs with the ultimate goal of securing the long term future of its workforce. EDS (an HP company) are not exempt from this,
Revenue is in decline and EDS (an HP company) are reducing cost expenditure wherever possible. Kelly Services have been impacted by this reduction and accordingly we need to reduce labour costs.
As a strategic partner, Kelly Services needs to support this initiative and reinforce the message that this initiative is key in order to secure the long term future for all our workers on secondment at EDS”.
So long as workers register a protest when pay cuts are imposed, these can be legally overturned. Hence, PCS has organised to help Kelly’s workers, who are joining the union, to lodge group grievances.
Updates will follow in future issues, but what has happened to Kelly’s colleagues is indicative of what we are up against with HP attitudes on cutting and freezing pay to boost their profits. A strong union, for both agency workers and permanent workers is absolutely vital.”
Hopefully members in the Fylde Central Benefits and Services Branch will now have a flavour of what the campaign in HP is about.
If you require any further details then please contact the Branch Office.
17.11.09
Hewlett Packard staff in strike vote
For PCS members locally, HP, formerly EDS are balloting on industrial action. Some of the staff involved may well be working alongside you, especially for those of you working in Blocks 3 and 8 at Norcross.
The following is direct from the PCS HQ website:
Over 1,000 PCS members working on government IT contracts for EDS/Hewlett Packard (HP) began a strike ballot today in a dispute over job losses and pay.
There has been growing anger amongst staff since HP took over EDS in August 2008 with 3,400 staff already axed in addition to a pay freeze and voluntary pay cuts. Hardworking staff, who are shouldering greater workloads and contributing significantly to HP’s revenue and profits, now face a further insecurity with further 1,000 job losses planned for the first half of next year.
The ballot which runs until 30 November is asking members to vote on action short of strike and strike action which could take the form of a series of one or two day strikes.
Those being balloted work mainly on IT contracts for the Department for Work and Pensions in locations around the UK including: Newcastle, Washington, Preston and the Fylde Coast.
Commenting, Mark Serwotka, PCS general secretary, said: "There has been growing anger amongst staff who are facing yet more uncertainty about their future. Staff have been contributing significantly to HP’s revenue, whilst shouldering greater workloads and helping to generate good profit levels.
Yet their reward is more job cuts, imposed pay freezes and pleas from the company to take a voluntary pay cut. We will be urging members to deliver a strong yes vote and tell management that enough is enough."
The following is direct from the PCS HQ website:
Over 1,000 PCS members working on government IT contracts for EDS/Hewlett Packard (HP) began a strike ballot today in a dispute over job losses and pay.
There has been growing anger amongst staff since HP took over EDS in August 2008 with 3,400 staff already axed in addition to a pay freeze and voluntary pay cuts. Hardworking staff, who are shouldering greater workloads and contributing significantly to HP’s revenue and profits, now face a further insecurity with further 1,000 job losses planned for the first half of next year.
The ballot which runs until 30 November is asking members to vote on action short of strike and strike action which could take the form of a series of one or two day strikes.
Those being balloted work mainly on IT contracts for the Department for Work and Pensions in locations around the UK including: Newcastle, Washington, Preston and the Fylde Coast.
Commenting, Mark Serwotka, PCS general secretary, said: "There has been growing anger amongst staff who are facing yet more uncertainty about their future. Staff have been contributing significantly to HP’s revenue, whilst shouldering greater workloads and helping to generate good profit levels.
Yet their reward is more job cuts, imposed pay freezes and pleas from the company to take a voluntary pay cut. We will be urging members to deliver a strong yes vote and tell management that enough is enough."
12.11.09
PCS DWP Group Telephony Campaign
To all members of the PCS Fylde Central Benefits and Services Branch at Warbreck in Helpline and on Turrets or in 201, 202 and 204 at Norcross.
Members may have seen details in the PCS DWP Group circulars about the campaign in Job Centre Plus regarding the extension of Call Centres in the DWP.
The PCS DWP Group Executive Committee have decided that a line in the sand has to be drawn in terms of the continuing pressures from the employer to eat into members conditions of service. Your Branch Executive Committee unanimously agreed that, provided the campaigns aims were beneficial to all members who work in a Telephony environment in the DWP then all members working in a telephony environment should be included in the Campaign. We have requested assurances that the campaign’s aims and demands will include:
- Adoption of the PCS Call Centre Charter in all Call Centres in the DWP, including full access to FWH, an end to the Genesys system with its “nth” degree scheduling of call centre workers’ hours on the phones, acceptance that call centres workers are a part of the Department and should have the same rights to Special Leave/ Annual Leave etc and that any other improvements secured by PCS Departmentally apply to all workers equally, including call centre workers.
- That there should be volunteers only to move into the JC Plus call centres
If members want sight of the full PCS Call Centre Charter then they should contact Katya Lawder.
If you have any concerns, reservations or issues about the Campaign or want to discuss the issues then could the members who work on Turrets contact Emma Haslehurst by email or on Ext: 67400, the members in Helpline contact Katya Lawder by email of on Ext: 61186 and the Block 2 Norcross members please contact Duncan Griffiths via email or on Ext: 63484.
Right to Request Part-Time Working
Branches across the North West have received reports of members with caring responsibilities who have had requests for changes to their working patterns refused for ‘business reasons’. Your NW Regional Committee does not consider that an employer the size of DWP can reasonably refuse such requests.
PCS advises members who are considering making such requests, or who have had such requests refused to contact their local TU representative for advice.
Making DWP more representative in the North West
In our last newsletter we reported that anecdotal evidence suggested that DWP are failing to monitor the fairness or otherwise of their workforce management policies. They are failing to obtain equality data following recruitment, promotion and other vacancy-filling exercises, let alone analyse the data in order to make recommendations for improvements. The issue has now been raised with Jobcentre Plus regional managers who have confirmed that they do not use this data in the North West. This is unacceptable and PCS will continue to pursue this issue.
Regional Equality Networks
PCS has established a number of equality networks in the North West for members from under-represented groups within the union. Membership of the network groups is open to all qualifying members In the North West there are currently networks for black members, disabled members, LGBT members and young members.
These networks hold regular training events, usually on a quarterly basis. If you are interested in joining one of these networks please contact your local branch equality officer
Forthcoming Equality Events:
• North West Black Members Network: Liverpool, 12th November 2009
• PCS PROUD annual seminar: Glasgow, 20th November 2009
Branches across the North West have received reports of members with caring responsibilities who have had requests for changes to their working patterns refused for ‘business reasons’. Your NW Regional Committee does not consider that an employer the size of DWP can reasonably refuse such requests.
PCS advises members who are considering making such requests, or who have had such requests refused to contact their local TU representative for advice.
Making DWP more representative in the North West
In our last newsletter we reported that anecdotal evidence suggested that DWP are failing to monitor the fairness or otherwise of their workforce management policies. They are failing to obtain equality data following recruitment, promotion and other vacancy-filling exercises, let alone analyse the data in order to make recommendations for improvements. The issue has now been raised with Jobcentre Plus regional managers who have confirmed that they do not use this data in the North West. This is unacceptable and PCS will continue to pursue this issue.
Regional Equality Networks
PCS has established a number of equality networks in the North West for members from under-represented groups within the union. Membership of the network groups is open to all qualifying members In the North West there are currently networks for black members, disabled members, LGBT members and young members.
These networks hold regular training events, usually on a quarterly basis. If you are interested in joining one of these networks please contact your local branch equality officer
Forthcoming Equality Events:
• North West Black Members Network: Liverpool, 12th November 2009
• PCS PROUD annual seminar: Glasgow, 20th November 2009
9.11.09
2000 LOCAL Job Cuts!
Two Thousand Job Cuts have taken place in the Fylde in the Department for Work and Pensions. No wonder it’s so difficult for people to find a job in the Fylde.
BackgroundThe Public and Commercial Services Union (PCS) have over the past five years been running a campaign to defend jobs and to highlight the economic impact of job cuts on the Fylde. The Government previously announced that there would be 104,000 job cuts in the Civil Service and the DWP was to take a large slice of the cuts.
We warned as to the detrimental impact of the job cuts on the economy of the Fylde area and also on future employment prospects.
We have met with local MPs and the Blackpool Council Leadership to warn of the dire consequences of the job cuts and tried to build a strategy to promote the interests of the Fylde rather than to accept that job cuts and economic misery are inevitable.
Exposed - Facts and Figures of the Job Cuts
The Rt. Hon Michael Jack MP (Fylde) has tabled a series of questions in the House of Commons as to the extent of the job cuts in the DWP (alone) in the Fylde over the past five years. The responses are grim reading as follows, broken down into Council Boroughs. The figures are in whole time equivalents Job Cuts between 2005 and 2009:
The Rt. Hon Michael Jack MP (Fylde) has tabled a series of questions in the House of Commons as to the extent of the job cuts in the DWP (alone) in the Fylde over the past five years. The responses are grim reading as follows, broken down into Council Boroughs. The figures are in whole time equivalents Job Cuts between 2005 and 2009:
Blackpool = 245
Fylde = 1,057
Wyre = 860
Fylde = 1,057
Wyre = 860
TOTAL JOB CUTS ACROSS THE “FYLDE” = 2,162
NB. The above figures also include some people who have been privatised and also some transferred out of the DWP. However some of the privatised areas have also had job cuts not included in the above.
The figures are truly desperate. No wonder there are so many people unemployed and unable to find work on the Fylde. There is also the proposal to cut the Civil Service Compensation scheme which is an outrageous attempt to cut people’s jobs on the cheap at a time when many on the Fylde are worried about job security. We can clearly see that there has been a consensus formed by the political elite in the country that there will be a need for more job cuts to pay for the bail out of the bankers and the millionaire class, that means that many more jobs in the DWP on the Fylde and indeed across the Public Sector are at risk over the next few years.
Of course this does not bode well for the future of job opportunities in the area. This is obviously of great concern especially for the unemployed seeking a decent job in the Fylde area. Once the worst of the recession created by the bankers is over then there will attempts at a purge on Civil Service jobs. Cutting the compensation makes it cheaper to get rid of people.
Statements made by political leaders recently about more job cuts in the Public Sector to pay for the excesses of the bankers could make the jobs situation on the Fylde even worse. We would call upon all the interested parties in the Fylde to work together to get a grip on the jobs situation, before it becomes too late.
Conclusion
The Branch will continue to campaign to defend jobs in the area and also raise key issues such as the expectations of those left behind after the job cuts and the pressures to deliver increasing workloads with fewer and fewer staff.
The Branch will continue to campaign to defend jobs in the area and also raise key issues such as the expectations of those left behind after the job cuts and the pressures to deliver increasing workloads with fewer and fewer staff.
If you have not yet joined PCS then please download and complete the membership form within the information pack here, or contact your site office for a form.
Blow the Whistle - White Ribbon Campaign
In 1991, a handful of men in Canada decided they had a responsibility to urge men to speak out against violence against women. They decided that wearing a white ribbon would be a symbol of men's opposition to men's violence against women.After only six weeks preparation, as many as one hundred thousand men across Canada wore a white ribbon. Many others were drawn into discussion and debate on the issue of men's violence.
There are now White Ribbon Campaigns operating in many countries around the world. The first White Ribbon Day was launched in the UK by Womankind in 1998.
White Ribbon Campaign UK was launched in 2004 to work in conjunction with the work already done by Womankind Worldwide.The White Ribbon Campaign is the largest effort in the world of men working to end men's violence against women. It relies on volunteer support and financial contributions from individuals and organisations.
The White Ribbon football campaign is called “Blow the whistle on violence against women”. The aims of the campaign are to get male role models such as footballers and football managers to wear a white ribbon, to pledge that they will never commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women.
The reason for this is that if a young man sees that his role model condemns violence against women, then he is likely to follow suit.
We also asked the football teams to produce an article in their match day programme, highlighting the issues of the campaign.
So far they have been supported by teams including Chelsea, Liverpool, Everton, Fulham, Tottenham, West Bromwich Albion, Sunderland and Stoke City.
For more information about the White Ribbon Campaign or Blow Your Whistle on Violence Against Women visit their website here. Or you can email them here.
Please join the campaign in trying to end male violence against women by supporting this event. If you, or someone you know is suffering from domestic violence please do not suffer in silence. Any member can contact the Warbreck Office in confidence on ext 61186/67400 or Norcross on ext 62882/63484.
For support, advice and information you can also contact the following organisations:
Fylde Coast Women's Aid - 01253 596699 – A local branch of Women’s Aid.
RESPECT - 0845 1228609 – For men who feel they are in danger of being violent or abusive.
Broken Rainbow – 08452 604460 – Support for LGBT people experiencing domestic violence.
MALE (Men’s Advice Line & Enquiries) – 0845 0646800 – If you are a male victim of domestic violence.
Women’s & Children Helpline – 0808 2000247 – Freephone 24 Hour National Domestic Violence Helpline (England) which is run in partnership between Women’s Aid & Refuge.
The Refuge website also shows you how to stop anyone knowing that you have been on their/a website in order to protect you.
27.10.09
Put People First - G20
Put People First G20 Counter Conferences in London and in St Andrews, Scotland, Saturday 7 November.
Please see the following link to PCS website, providing more information about these Put People First Coalition events, being held simultaneously in London and St Andrews, Scotland:
Click Here
For the Counter Conference in St Andrews the fastest link is through the Put People First website here.
Support Your Local Postal Worker
Postal workers are fighting to defend
their rights and your postal service.
their rights and your postal service.
Support the CWU
The PCS North West Regional Committee have sent the following message of support to the CWU.
"22nd October 2009
Dear Carl
On behalf of 44,000 PCS members in the North West we offer our full support to CWU and its members in their dispute with Royal Mail.
PCS members recognise the attack on public services. The failure of Royal Mail to enter into ACAS facilitated negotiations speaks volumes about their approach to industrial relations.
PCS members would welcome the opportunity to show their support for CWU members. Please keep us informed of picket lines and other activities and we will ensure our members are asked to offer practical support."
21.10.09
Hope Not Hate - Question Time
Despite widespread opposition Nick Griffin will be on Question Time this Thursday.The BBC have made their decision - they are willing to let a leader of a fascist Party on their flagship show. Last week the BNP agreed to change its constitution for fear of being found guilty of having a racist and illegal membership policy.
On Sunday, Griffin attacked and abused his fellow panelists Bonnie Greer and Baroness Warsi for not being white, and yet the BBC still allow him on. Griffin's presence is a stain on the BBC - and many of you will share the widespread feelings of anger about this. So it is time to make a stand.
On Thursday afternoon HNH are going to the BBC to deliver the Question Time presenter, David Dimbleby, thousands of messages of hope from our supporters. Your stories, your experiences and your belief in an open and tolerant society will send the strongest possible rejection of the BNP's message of hate.
You can send your message of hope here.
The BNP's goal is to divide us. It's to whip up fear and hatred in our communities and then exploit the anger that they've induced. But we don't have to accept their hatred. At a moment like this we need to rally together to send a message of defiance against the BNP.
You the public are best placed to do this.
So why do you oppose the racist BNP? Why are you proud to live in our open and tolerant society? Or quite simply, do you have a message you want to send Nick Griffin?
Tell us here.
Whatever you write, whatever story you tell, your words will speak for the majority of Britons.
When thousands of us come together in this action we can send a unified message of hope to counter Griffin's fractured message of hate.
Please join us in this moment - whether you write a single word or an entire essay we will take them all to the BBC and present them to David Dimbleby. We can't make the impact we need without you.
Please send a message now
- your stories make our movement -
16.10.09
A Message from UAF
A message to you all from the North West Regional Organiser for Unite Against Fascism.
The Fleetwood and Wyre UAF coordinator would also like to add their own thanks to all of you who took part in the demo in Cleveleys. Well done everyone!!!
Please also see below regarding a protest outside the BBC studios, and if you haven’t already, please consider joining UAF with the form found here.
Thanks
"Dear All, I'd Just like to say a huge well done, and thank you, to all of you for your part in the hugely successful demo against the Fascist BNP in Cleveleys the other night.
We clearly showed the Nazis that they are not welcome and that anti-fascists are the majority.
Their behaviour towards black and Asian members of the public is a clear example of their real racist politics, and something which we will be highlighting in our campaign to expose the Fascists.
See Fleetwood Today here for a full report.
The Fleetwood and Wyre UAF coordinator would also like to add their own thanks to all of you who took part in the demo in Cleveleys. Well done everyone!!!
Please also see below regarding a protest outside the BBC studios, and if you haven’t already, please consider joining UAF with the form found here.
Thanks
"Dear All, I'd Just like to say a huge well done, and thank you, to all of you for your part in the hugely successful demo against the Fascist BNP in Cleveleys the other night.
We clearly showed the Nazis that they are not welcome and that anti-fascists are the majority.
Their behaviour towards black and Asian members of the public is a clear example of their real racist politics, and something which we will be highlighting in our campaign to expose the Fascists.
See Fleetwood Today here for a full report.
Thanks to all from Unite Against Fascism; Blackpool, Flyde & Wyre Trades Council; FBU; members of UNISON, USDAW, UCU; Labour Party members, Councillors; members of the local community and local youth; and everyone else who was there to join the protest.
Unite Against Fascism would encourage everyone from the protest to join UAF so that we can continue to build as strong an anti-fascist movement as possible to beat the BNP in the future. We are also asking people to come to the national protest against BNP Leader Nick Griffin when he tries to appear on Question Time on 22nd October."
Unite Against Fascism would encourage everyone from the protest to join UAF so that we can continue to build as strong an anti-fascist movement as possible to beat the BNP in the future. We are also asking people to come to the national protest against BNP Leader Nick Griffin when he tries to appear on Question Time on 22nd October."
Keep the Nazi BNP off Question Time
Protest at the BBC headquarters
Thursday 22 October
Called by Unite Against Fascism
Thursday 22 October
Called by Unite Against Fascism
Pickets from 9am.
Main demo from 5pm outside the BBC Centre, Wood Lane, London W12 7RJ
(nearest Tube White City or Wood Lane)
The protest will be followed by a Love Music Hate Racism social event featuring live music and an 'Alternative Question Time'
(nearest Tube White City or Wood Lane)
The protest will be followed by a Love Music Hate Racism social event featuring live music and an 'Alternative Question Time'
Venue: Ginglik, 1 Shepherds Bush Green, W12.
Doors open at 7.30pm starts 8pm.
Artists include South London singer Mpho and DJ Rugrat Entry £6/3
Supported by: BECTU, Anne Frank Trust , PCS, CWU, TSSA, Musicians Union, ASLEF and Love Music Hate Racism
The BBC has invited Nick Griffin, leader of the fascist BNP and a man with a criminal conviction for denying Hitler ’s Holocaust, onto its flagship Question Time programme on Thursday 22 October in London. The BBC says the BNP should be treated as if it were a democratic party. But there is nothing democratic about the BNP. It is a racist and fascist organisation dedicated to kicking every single black and Asian person out of this country.
Supported by: BECTU, Anne Frank Trust , PCS, CWU, TSSA, Musicians Union, ASLEF and Love Music Hate Racism
The BBC has invited Nick Griffin, leader of the fascist BNP and a man with a criminal conviction for denying Hitler ’s Holocaust, onto its flagship Question Time programme on Thursday 22 October in London. The BBC says the BNP should be treated as if it were a democratic party. But there is nothing democratic about the BNP. It is a racist and fascist organisation dedicated to kicking every single black and Asian person out of this country.
Griffin himself wrote: “When the crunch comes power is the product of force and will, not of rational debate.” He isn’t interested in impressing people with his arguments — he wants to back up the BNP’s slogans with “well-directed boots and fists”.
The BBC has chosen to roll out the red carpet to racists and fascists. More airtime for the BNP will lead to more racist attacks on the streets.
If you’re disgusted, come along to the demonstration outside Question Time. Please bring family, friends and banners welcome.
Make a Donation to Unite Against Fascism
You can make a one-off donation via nochex by going to www.tinyurl.com/UAFdonate. Follow the onscreen instructions and type ‘Appeal Donation’ in the message box.
You can make a one-off donation via nochex by going to www.tinyurl.com/UAFdonate. Follow the onscreen instructions and type ‘Appeal Donation’ in the message box.
Also, what we really need is the regular monthly income that comes from standing orders. To make your contribution, please complete the membership form and return it to us at UAF, PO Box 36871, London WC1X 9XT.
Make cheques payable to Unite Against Fascism.
15.10.09
Fleetwood Weekly News BNP Meeting Report.
The Fleetwood Weekly News have issued an article reporting on the happenings inside and outside the Frank Townend centre in Cleveleys where the BNP held their recent local rally.
The following is verbatim, all credits to the Fleetwood Weekly News:
"Published Date: 15 October 2009
Inside view on the BNP
BURLY security staff in heavy, black coats guard the door while police pace outside the Frank Townend Centre in Cleveleys. It's not the usual midweek sight outside the Beach Road community centre where children go for dance classes and ladies meet for art and craft sessions.
But it's not every night the BNP holds a rally in the quaint seaside town. And it's certainly not often the press get invited to see what goes on behind those well guarded doors. So when Clive Jefferson, North West BNP regional organiser, ushered me into their meeting room, I was quite taken aback.
Going inside, I pass a passionate group of anti-fascist protesters waving placards and shouting.
One protester, Jane from Blackpool Trades Union Council told me: "We will fight wherever the BNP stand. If we stand together, we will oppose them quicker."
Then there's an army of bouncers, wearing BNP badges, to negotiate. I join around 40 people – BNP members and invitees – who have turned up to listen to the party's policies and their plans to form a branch in Wyre.
Stood in front of a large banner proclaiming "British jobs for British workers" with a Union Jack flag beside him Mr Jefferson said: "We are a legitimate party, we have a right to hold a meeting here. We want British jobs for British workers. We want the troops out of Iraq."
The audience – a few women but mainly men in their 50s and 60s – burst into applause. But what about their ideas for Cleveleys? James Clayton, candidate for next week's Jubilee ward by-election, said: "The major problems are anti-social behaviour and drug use in Cleveleys, needles being found on the Promenade, mess in the roads, grass cuttings and street lighting.
"A lot of people have shown interest in our party and this is our chance to show ourselves for who we are, which isn't the skinhead or thugs and yob image."
One member offers me a drink as he says: "We're not intimidating are we? We get a lot of bad press but we're not thugs." But I don't like what I hear next as around six people put their hands up to request an application form to become a BNP member. One convert shouts: "I'll have an application form, but not a coloured one!" It was greeted with laughter by most in the audience, and was a deeply unpleasant reminder of where I was. I had a distinctly uneasy feeling in the pit of my stomach.
While inside the building the recruitment drive was in full flow, it was a different story outside as four people got turned away. All were either black or Asian. There were no members of the ethnic minorities inside.
As I left a security guard told me: "After a while it was getting full up so we decided it had to be members only." Strange that, as I was given a seat all to myself and I'm not a member. And I swear there was plenty of space.
Madhvi Chabba-Moudgil, 35, from St Annes, was one of those turned away, along with partner Vishal Moudgil and brother SK Chabba. She said: "Allowing a party that only allows certain people to join only goes towards a breakdown of relationships between all sections of the community and further leads to spoil the good work of people who work towards integration and good relations between different communities and classes of society. In this day and age, for a society of this kind to require police presence at a community centre, is a very sad statement in humanity. What hope is there for integration of society?"
Stephen Howard, 32, who is black and from Cleveleys, who was also turned away, said: "When I asked why, they said: 'what does BNP stand for?"
The refusals put Bernie Naughton off from going inside. The 42-year-old from Poulton said: "I came down to hear their opinions but then I saw they were not letting Stephen in I changed my mind."
Around seven police officers were outside to make sure the rally and protest passed off peacefully. Supt Richard Spedding said officers would be looking into the circumstances surrounding people being refused entry. He then praised protesters, including those from Unite Against Fascism, Lancaster Unity and Blackpool Fylde and Wyre Trades Union Council, for how they behaved during their demonstration.
Anti-fascist campaigners are planning a protest in London against the BNP leader's presence on BBC One's Question Time on October 22. Black writer Bonnie Greer will take part in a televised debate with far right party leader Nick Griffin. They will be joined by Justice Secretary Jack Straw – the first senior Labour politician to say that he was willing to appear on the show with Mr Griffin.
* The other candidates for the Jubilee by-election are: Roy Hopwood representing the UK Independence Party, Wayne Martin for Labour and Tory David Walmsley"
The following is verbatim, all credits to the Fleetwood Weekly News:
"Published Date: 15 October 2009
Inside view on the BNP
BURLY security staff in heavy, black coats guard the door while police pace outside the Frank Townend Centre in Cleveleys. It's not the usual midweek sight outside the Beach Road community centre where children go for dance classes and ladies meet for art and craft sessions.
But it's not every night the BNP holds a rally in the quaint seaside town. And it's certainly not often the press get invited to see what goes on behind those well guarded doors. So when Clive Jefferson, North West BNP regional organiser, ushered me into their meeting room, I was quite taken aback.
Going inside, I pass a passionate group of anti-fascist protesters waving placards and shouting.
One protester, Jane from Blackpool Trades Union Council told me: "We will fight wherever the BNP stand. If we stand together, we will oppose them quicker."
Then there's an army of bouncers, wearing BNP badges, to negotiate. I join around 40 people – BNP members and invitees – who have turned up to listen to the party's policies and their plans to form a branch in Wyre.
Stood in front of a large banner proclaiming "British jobs for British workers" with a Union Jack flag beside him Mr Jefferson said: "We are a legitimate party, we have a right to hold a meeting here. We want British jobs for British workers. We want the troops out of Iraq."
The audience – a few women but mainly men in their 50s and 60s – burst into applause. But what about their ideas for Cleveleys? James Clayton, candidate for next week's Jubilee ward by-election, said: "The major problems are anti-social behaviour and drug use in Cleveleys, needles being found on the Promenade, mess in the roads, grass cuttings and street lighting.
"A lot of people have shown interest in our party and this is our chance to show ourselves for who we are, which isn't the skinhead or thugs and yob image."
One member offers me a drink as he says: "We're not intimidating are we? We get a lot of bad press but we're not thugs." But I don't like what I hear next as around six people put their hands up to request an application form to become a BNP member. One convert shouts: "I'll have an application form, but not a coloured one!" It was greeted with laughter by most in the audience, and was a deeply unpleasant reminder of where I was. I had a distinctly uneasy feeling in the pit of my stomach.
While inside the building the recruitment drive was in full flow, it was a different story outside as four people got turned away. All were either black or Asian. There were no members of the ethnic minorities inside.
As I left a security guard told me: "After a while it was getting full up so we decided it had to be members only." Strange that, as I was given a seat all to myself and I'm not a member. And I swear there was plenty of space.
Madhvi Chabba-Moudgil, 35, from St Annes, was one of those turned away, along with partner Vishal Moudgil and brother SK Chabba. She said: "Allowing a party that only allows certain people to join only goes towards a breakdown of relationships between all sections of the community and further leads to spoil the good work of people who work towards integration and good relations between different communities and classes of society. In this day and age, for a society of this kind to require police presence at a community centre, is a very sad statement in humanity. What hope is there for integration of society?"
Stephen Howard, 32, who is black and from Cleveleys, who was also turned away, said: "When I asked why, they said: 'what does BNP stand for?"
The refusals put Bernie Naughton off from going inside. The 42-year-old from Poulton said: "I came down to hear their opinions but then I saw they were not letting Stephen in I changed my mind."
Around seven police officers were outside to make sure the rally and protest passed off peacefully. Supt Richard Spedding said officers would be looking into the circumstances surrounding people being refused entry. He then praised protesters, including those from Unite Against Fascism, Lancaster Unity and Blackpool Fylde and Wyre Trades Union Council, for how they behaved during their demonstration.
Anti-fascist campaigners are planning a protest in London against the BNP leader's presence on BBC One's Question Time on October 22. Black writer Bonnie Greer will take part in a televised debate with far right party leader Nick Griffin. They will be joined by Justice Secretary Jack Straw – the first senior Labour politician to say that he was willing to appear on the show with Mr Griffin.
* The other candidates for the Jubilee by-election are: Roy Hopwood representing the UK Independence Party, Wayne Martin for Labour and Tory David Walmsley"
14.10.09
European H&S Week Stalls
PCS are holding events on the major Fylde sites for European H&S Week. There will be information on the stalls on various workplace health and safety issues.
The stalls will be staffed by trained PCS H&S Representatives so you can feel free to pop along and discuss any issues you have in the workplace relating to health, safety and welfare.
The venues, dates and times are detailed below:
Norcross Canteen (Block 5)
Monday 19th October 2009
11.45 am to 1.30pm
Tomlinson House Canteen
Monday 19th October 2009
11.45 am to 1.30pm
Warbreck House (Outside Canteen)
Tuesday 20th October 2009
11.45 am to 1:30pm
Peel Park (Deli Bar Phase 2)
Thursday 22nd October 2009
11.45am to 1.30pm
We hope to see you at one of the events!
LEAN - An Update
The purpose of this post is to provide an update on the roll-out of Lean across DCPU Ops and the planned roll-out of Lean into the Support Unit and Helpline. PCS met with Senior Management on 13th October 2009 to discuss the issues and concerns we had and of those raised by members.
DCPU Ops
The final stages of the Lean roll-out are approaching and Senior Management state that all DCPU Ops areas should have ‘gone live’ by 30th November 2009. Senior Management stated that they were currently looking to share ‘good practices’ across the Units with a view to standardising the work flow. We advised that we had received reports of areas scrapping the Lean processes and reverting back to the ‘old’ ways of working. We have concerns that this implies that Lean is not working as well as the employer would have us believe.
We reiterated our concerns in respect of the Health & Safety implications of the low level racking used. Despite PCS continually raising this concern with Senior Management since the start of Lean approx 18 months ago, the matter has still to be resolved to our satisfaction. The Senior Manager responsible for Lean, stated that no member of staff should be forced to use low level racking if they had any concerns about doing so, and that alternative arrangements should be made. However PCS want to remove the Health & Safety risk for all members, not just individuals.
Given that low level racking has resulted in a number of serious accidents (some of which are being taken forward as legal claims), and is also No1 on the Employer’s Top 10 list for Health & Safety risks associated with Lean, we do not believe that this is an acceptable resolution.
We do not believe Senior Management are taking the matter of low level racking seriously. We will continue to pursue this matter through the appropriate Health & Safety channels, as PCS do not believe that Health & Safety risks should be purposely built into working practices. However if Senior Management’s suggestion of using alternative arrangements is helpful to you then you should speak to your line manager to establish what alternative arrangements you can utilise.
DCPU Support Units
We discussed Lean being rolled-out into the Support Unit, in respect of the intention to roll out the Lean processes at the same time as the Lean awareness sessions were being run. Obviously we were concerned by this. Senior Management assured us that Lean roll-out would not take place until after staff have had the Lean awareness sessions. Senior Management also agreed to meet with PCS again after those sessions had taken place so that we could discuss any proposals they had with them.
Helpline
Roll-out of Lean into Helpline is still in the planning stages but Senior Management expect it to take place sometime between now and March 2010. Senior Management explained that some Helpline staff had been assisting the Lean Core Team by giving details regarding the type of calls/work Helpline staff do on a day-to-day basis. They stated that they would also be involving turret staff in this process. Senior Management assured us that any Lean processes implemented in Helpline would not be about cutting the call length by being less helpful to customers/ claimants; but that Lean was about making processes more efficient and therefore could result in the call length being increased, if that did in fact increase efficiency.
I hope that the above is useful. If you have any issues or concerns about Lean then please do not hesitate to contact the Branch Office on ext 61186.
DCPU Ops
The final stages of the Lean roll-out are approaching and Senior Management state that all DCPU Ops areas should have ‘gone live’ by 30th November 2009. Senior Management stated that they were currently looking to share ‘good practices’ across the Units with a view to standardising the work flow. We advised that we had received reports of areas scrapping the Lean processes and reverting back to the ‘old’ ways of working. We have concerns that this implies that Lean is not working as well as the employer would have us believe.
We reiterated our concerns in respect of the Health & Safety implications of the low level racking used. Despite PCS continually raising this concern with Senior Management since the start of Lean approx 18 months ago, the matter has still to be resolved to our satisfaction. The Senior Manager responsible for Lean, stated that no member of staff should be forced to use low level racking if they had any concerns about doing so, and that alternative arrangements should be made. However PCS want to remove the Health & Safety risk for all members, not just individuals.
Given that low level racking has resulted in a number of serious accidents (some of which are being taken forward as legal claims), and is also No1 on the Employer’s Top 10 list for Health & Safety risks associated with Lean, we do not believe that this is an acceptable resolution.
We do not believe Senior Management are taking the matter of low level racking seriously. We will continue to pursue this matter through the appropriate Health & Safety channels, as PCS do not believe that Health & Safety risks should be purposely built into working practices. However if Senior Management’s suggestion of using alternative arrangements is helpful to you then you should speak to your line manager to establish what alternative arrangements you can utilise.
DCPU Support Units
We discussed Lean being rolled-out into the Support Unit, in respect of the intention to roll out the Lean processes at the same time as the Lean awareness sessions were being run. Obviously we were concerned by this. Senior Management assured us that Lean roll-out would not take place until after staff have had the Lean awareness sessions. Senior Management also agreed to meet with PCS again after those sessions had taken place so that we could discuss any proposals they had with them.
Helpline
Roll-out of Lean into Helpline is still in the planning stages but Senior Management expect it to take place sometime between now and March 2010. Senior Management explained that some Helpline staff had been assisting the Lean Core Team by giving details regarding the type of calls/work Helpline staff do on a day-to-day basis. They stated that they would also be involving turret staff in this process. Senior Management assured us that any Lean processes implemented in Helpline would not be about cutting the call length by being less helpful to customers/ claimants; but that Lean was about making processes more efficient and therefore could result in the call length being increased, if that did in fact increase efficiency.
I hope that the above is useful. If you have any issues or concerns about Lean then please do not hesitate to contact the Branch Office on ext 61186.
Equality News
The Equality and Human Rights Commission has issued it's latest "newsletter".
This edition covers their finance inquiry, their action against the BNP, an update on our Strategic Funding Programme and more.
Click here to open the site in a new window.
PCS Women's Introductory Course
PCS in conjunction with Preston TUC Education Unit are running a Women's Introductory Course.
It takes place over three days, the 3rd, 4th & 5th November 2009 at Preston College, Trade Union Education Unit, 5th Floor Buckingham House, Glovers Court, Preston, PR1 3LS.
The course runs from 9.30am to 4.30pm each day and is designed for for new women reps.
The course aims to:
- Encourage the involvement of women
- Build skills and confidence
- Familiarise you with the policies of PCS
If you would like to attend this course, please complete and send an application form (these are available from Katya Lawder in Room C122A, Warbreck House) by Tuesday, 20th October 2009.
2009 PCS Proud Seminar - Glasgow
The 2009 PCS Proud seminar for members has been announced. It is being held over the weekend commencing 20th November in Glasgow and you don't have to be a Proud member to apply, however, you must identify as being lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.
More information can be found on the PCS Proud website here.
More information can be found on the PCS Proud website here.
The required application forms can be found on the PCS HQ website here.
Application forms must be received by the Equality, Health and Safety Department by midday on Thursday 29th October 2009.
13.10.09
Protest Against the BNP - Cleveleys
PROTEST AGAINST THE BNP
Date: 6pm Tuesday 13th October
Location: Outside the Frank Townend Community Centre, Kensington Road, Cleveleys.
The BNP are holding a private meeting/rally in Cleveleys Jubilee ward in the run up to the local by-election.
Their event has been approved by Wyre Borough Council despite much opposition from Labour Councillors, local UAF and others.
The BNP meeting is being held at The Frank Townend Community Centre on Kensington Road, just off Beach Road at 7pm on Tuesday 13th October.
A protest demonstration is therefore planned for the same time outside the community centre.
Please pass this on to as many people as you can.
Let's have a large number of people outside protesting about this.
The BNP are a racist organisation who wish to divide the community, and a community centre is no such place for them to be holding a race hate meeting.
Please arrive early and in groups if possible.
Stay safe!
Date: 6pm Tuesday 13th October
Location: Outside the Frank Townend Community Centre, Kensington Road, Cleveleys.
The BNP are holding a private meeting/rally in Cleveleys Jubilee ward in the run up to the local by-election.
Their event has been approved by Wyre Borough Council despite much opposition from Labour Councillors, local UAF and others.
The BNP meeting is being held at The Frank Townend Community Centre on Kensington Road, just off Beach Road at 7pm on Tuesday 13th October.
A protest demonstration is therefore planned for the same time outside the community centre.
Please pass this on to as many people as you can.
Let's have a large number of people outside protesting about this.
The BNP are a racist organisation who wish to divide the community, and a community centre is no such place for them to be holding a race hate meeting.
Please arrive early and in groups if possible.
Stay safe!
9.10.09
Stop the BNP meeting in Cleveleys
It has been brought to our attention that the BNP are holding a meeting (invite only as far as we are aware, although rumours have been heard that it is to be a public meeting) in the Frank Townend Community Centre in Cleveleys which is owned by Wyre Borough Council.
The meeting is taking place on 13th October 2009.
You are all urged to complain to Wyre Borough Council on 01253 891000 or by email and The Frank Townend Community Centre on 01253 863369.
The BNP is an extremist racist organisation that seeks to divide the community, and as such we feel that a community centre (especially a council owned one) that is supposed to serve the needs of the whole community is not the place for such a group to hold a meeting.
Please phone/email and ask them to cancel this meeting on the grounds that a community centre should be there to serve the whole community, and not to promote a group that seeks to divide and alienate whole sectors of the community.
If they do not cancel the meeting then the UAF will be arranging a demo outside the building.
1.10.09
Low Level Racking - LEAN “designs in” Problems
Negotiations To Resolve The Matter – Compensation Claims
Over the years we have witnessed problems with filing at Warbreck, particularly with staff filing in the “corridors” within the rooms. Unfortunately although the Department has a policy to “design out” Health and Safety risks, this is only a theory.
Since the introduction of LEAN techniques at Warbreck we have seen a proliferation of low level racking at Warbreck. This has resulted in serious accidents. According to the employer’s top ten list of Health and Safety risks associated with LEAN; low level racking appears at number 1.
We have tried at every turn over the past year to get the employer to see sense collectively and for them to restore proper racking and eliminate the low level racking. At the Warbreck Safety Committee on 30th September 2009 the employer acknowledged the scale of the problems and agreed to issue a statement to try and resolve the issues (or at least to start to take steps to improve matters).
Although the problems may be resolved in the near future, members who have suffered a medical detriment are now pursuing the issue through the legal channels.
Detriments to Health and Legal cases
So far it appears that there have only been half a dozen accidents associated with low level racking. This may be the tip of the iceberg.
Two of the members’ cases are being actively taken forward by the Lawyers. However there may be other members who have suffered a medical detriment as a result of the low level racking who would be interested in joining in a “group” action of claims through the Lawyers.
Since the introduction of LEAN techniques at Warbreck we have seen a proliferation of low level racking at Warbreck. This has resulted in serious accidents. According to the employer’s top ten list of Health and Safety risks associated with LEAN; low level racking appears at number 1.
We have tried at every turn over the past year to get the employer to see sense collectively and for them to restore proper racking and eliminate the low level racking. At the Warbreck Safety Committee on 30th September 2009 the employer acknowledged the scale of the problems and agreed to issue a statement to try and resolve the issues (or at least to start to take steps to improve matters).
Although the problems may be resolved in the near future, members who have suffered a medical detriment are now pursuing the issue through the legal channels.
Detriments to Health and Legal cases
So far it appears that there have only been half a dozen accidents associated with low level racking. This may be the tip of the iceberg.
Two of the members’ cases are being actively taken forward by the Lawyers. However there may be other members who have suffered a medical detriment as a result of the low level racking who would be interested in joining in a “group” action of claims through the Lawyers.
If you feel that you have suffered detriments that you may have been subjected to as a result of the low level racking then please contact me as soon as possible, in order that any claims can be considered by the Lawyers.
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