Members have raised questions with the Branch on specific points. We have raised these with PCS DWP Group and have received answers, the details are published below:

Question 1:

Under the employee deal there are meant to be independent appeal panels for members to appeal to, if there are perverse decisions.

 “30 DWP

DWP will promote the terms of the collective agreement at all levels of the business.

DWP employees and managers will be expected to adhere to the terms of this agreement.

Where disagreements arise regarding changes to working patterns, including part-year contracts, if they cannot be resolved through the normal grievance process and TU believe the decision is perverse; DWP will appoint an independent panel including a trade union representative to consider such exceptional cases. This arrangement will apply for 12 months from the date it is established, reviewable after 6 months and 11 months and extendable by agreement.”

What process will be in place for us to begin to establish the independent panel?

Will it be for PCS Branches to write to the relevant Director? In BSD we are getting close to individuals having to kick in the grievance process.

Answer

Proceed to the grievance stage if you need to. The policy on the independent panels should be issued shortly.