What is Unite asking for?
We are asking for a vote on whether Exco should recognise Unite as representing staff at the FCA.
If a majority voted Yes, Unite would be recognised.
That’s it. Provided that we are allowed to campaign openly, a vote is all we ask. We have nothing to fear from a vote, and nor does Exco.
Why does Unite want to be recognised as representing staff at the FCA?
Because a union is necessary for staff to have a strong, independent voice. That much is clear from the “employee offer” exercise.
As a recognised trade union, Unite would engage in collective bargaining on behalf of staff. We would represent staff as a collective group in negotiating over matters such as pay, hours and holidays. We have much greater bargaining power as a collective unit than we do as separate individuals. Again, that much is clear from the “employee offer” exercise.
A union will not only benefit staff. It will benefit the FCA as a whole – higher staff morale means a more productive and better performing workforce, as well as easier recruitment and retention. Externally, being unionised will mean a lower public confidence risk.
What about the SCC?
The SCC representatives work hard to do the best job they can. We respect them for that.
But they are not a union.
The SCC is not independent of management, and it does not have the resources of a union. Nor does it have the legal rights and protections of a union.
By contrast, Unite is one of the largest trade unions in the country, with 1.4 million members and connections into the legal, media and political worlds.
Nevertheless, we are happy to work alongside the SCC. Exco might decide to retain the SCC, and might even give it collective bargaining rights. A compromise arrangement in which the SCC functions alongside Unite may be the best way forward.
What about other unions?
We would be willing to work alongside other unions. That is a model that is followed in the civil service, for example.
If I support you, do I need to join Unite?
No, but there are good reasons for doing so. Being in a union provides access to representation and legal services if you find yourself bringing a grievance or facing a disciplinary case. In addition, Unite provides other benefits such as access to legal advice on non-employment matters.
Links
Why join a union? https://www.tuc.org.uk/why-join-union
Research on the benefits of union membership: https://www.tuc.org.uk/blogs/new-evidence-good-unions-do and https://www.tuc.org.uk/added-value-trade-unions
