The Branch held a meeting on 2nd June 2021 to update members on current issues, including the latest Pay Offer, and to make a nomination for the Unite General Secretary.
Chairs Update from Andy Baker
- This was the 2nd online Branch meeting and hopefully the last. We are looking at holding an in-person branch meeting next time dependent on how the situation evolves over the coming months.
- Unite Reps are getting involved in as much as possible across campus, influencing conversations about return to work and reimagining campus etc. We’re working with council and are involved in the Health and Safety Review.
- Retirement and other changes have affected membership numbers so it’s important for us to bring in more members where we can. Increased membership increases our collective voice and influence in the meetings and discussions reps get involved in.
Pay
Final offer from UCEA is 1.5% for grade point 22 and above with a sliding scale of 1.54 – 3.6% for points below 22. The national committee is meeting to discuss their thoughts on accepting or rejecting the offer ahead of a consultative ballot.
Reps expenses and Charity Donations
Branch approved a daily allowance of £25 per day for reps attending training and meetings away from campus. Days can be long and this allowance will help cover basic meals and hot drinks. Branch also approved two charity donations to A-C-E (Achieve, Change and Engagement) in Lancaster and AFC Masters in Bolton – more information available in separate news articles.