UNISON UP-DATE

Technician Retirement

Technician members were asked to express their interest in retiring early to “aid the efficiency of the service” a few months ago. Many UNISON members applied and are now anxiously awaiting the Trusts response. UNISON asked the Trust for an update and was informed that the costing process was complete, the only remaining issue being when members could be released. UNISON urges the Trust to write to members informing them of the situation with a rough timescale of implementation because the uncertainty is causing stress. UNISON requests all members who have expressed an interest to email their Locality Director asking for an update because the current situation is unacceptable.

Out of Area Overtime

UNISON members have raised concerns around the Trust stopping members from working overtime in other CBUs. UNISON raised the issue with the Deputy Director of Operations, David Williams, who explained that members can still work in other CBUs but there was a concern around some mileage claims that had been submitted for overtime shifts, UNISON suggested a conversation was needed with those members rather than a blanket ban.

PTS

UNISON has met with the Trust to discuss PTS issues with a view to making it more viable in terms of securing contracts. UNISON has insisted that if they are to be involved in the talks the meal break issue needs to be back on the table for negotiation. At the second meeting UNISON informed the Trust that unless there was meaningful movement on this issue prior to the next meeting we would have no alternative but to withdraw from all further meeting and implement the branch mandate which may result in industrial action.