We were there...

Checkout our new page of photos and other info from the day of action and rally on 30th November 2011.

Thanks to all the photographers who sent in photos. (21.12.11)
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21st December 2011 An update from UNISON General Secretary Dave Prentis on Developments on the Local Government Pension Scheme.

Dave Prentis, UNISON General Secretary writes

"I wanted to bring you up to date on discussions that have been taking place between UNISON, GMB, UNITE and the Local Government Association over a set of principles and a timetable for negotiations over short term savings and the new LGPS which the government wants to be in place from 2015. The discussions have not touched on the detail of a possible solution, but we believe will lay a positive framework for negotiations, starting in January.

Although discussions between ourselves and the LGA over the principles and timetable have reached a possible conclusion, the outcomes have not yet been given the ‘green light' by Eric Pickles, the Secretary of State, and we are not therefore in a position to make them public. It seems likely that –if ratified - they will be announced on Tuesday and we are in the process of agreeing joint wording with the LGA for their release.

I realise that rumours have been circulating and I wanted to reassure you that no decisions have been taken over the details surrounding contribution increases or the future look of the LGPS. However, I believe that – if agreed – the principles under discussion will provide a very positive framework for negotiations and potentially could lead to no change until 2014.

SGE's will be meeting on 10 January to consider the agreement with the LGA, if ratified. You will all have the opportunity then to give your views on principles and the way forward.

We will send you the agreement as soon as the Secretary of State has given his approval."

Watch this space for further news as we have it. (21.12.11)
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Template letter to councillors

Following the publication of the proposed Job Evaluation package, all members living in Bridgend County Borough are encouraged to write to their local councillor to ask what they have done to protect members' terms and conditions.

A template letter ( Word 31KB) is available to download - just fill in your personal details and send it to your local councillor. It is just a template - feel free to amend it to reflect your personal situation and viewpoint.

Personal contact details for all councillors are available via the BCBC website (for post or for email) or you can send your letter, using the internal mail system, c/o Member Services, Civic Offices.

If / when you get a reply from your councillor, the Branch Office would welcome a copy!

Don't delay - send your letter today. (26.09.11)

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Equal Pay - calling all Catering, Cleaning and Care Staff who haven't yet signed up to the UNISON campaign.
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Training opportunities for members

UNISON arranges training throughout the year. Full information and for any courses in the pipeline is always available on our Lifelong learning page for members, and on our training page for Reps and Stewards.

Current courses available for Reps/Stewards include: Maternity and Parental Rights ; Local training for reps and other activists -1: .(updated 19.09.11)