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Grassroots hero

12 August 2010

Read why Samantha La Roche, Benefits delivery officer for DWP got involved in the union to make change happen.

What persuaded you to get involved in the union?

I have only worked at DWP for a couple of years and thought the level of change and restrictive procedures being introduced since I began were alarming. The best way of changing something you don’t like is to get involved, so that’s what I did.

What benefits have you found from getting involved?

Belonging to a network of like-minded people has built my confidence. It’s great to be part of something that works towards a common goal and uplifting to belong to a large successful group pulling together in strength for all of us instead of an individual struggling against a relentless and destructive tide of change.

How do you balance union work with your life outside PCS?

There’s no conflict so there’s no real impact. My interests have always been centred on issues of basic justice; it’s just an extension of that taken into the workplace.

Which person has had the greatest influence on you?

I suppose it was my dad. He always encouraged a healthy enquiring scepticism mixed with a good dollop of humour; I’d like to think that has rubbed off a little.

What has surprised you about the union?

Until I went to conference, I had no idea of the real unity, cohesion and willingness to engage on issues across all areas of life.

Are you happy with the support you’ve had? What have you found most useful?

Support comes in many ways – from training and learning as you go, for example. The most useful for me though is discussing problems and issues with colleagues and getting feedback based on their experiences.

If you were general secretary for a day what would you do?

I would ask all cabinet ministers to work for three months in benefits delivery at band B at the closest site to their constituency before implementing any changes to the system. They would be on the appropriate salary too of course and have no access to any other finances whilst doing it.

What would your advice be to other members who may be thinking of becoming active in the union?

It’s the practical and positive solution to being part of the future where you work. It’s about being part of controlling where we steer our jobs, the culture of our workplace and how we support our members in the present and the future – an opportunity to opt into making decisions that affect us all.

Could you make a difference where you work? Speak to your PCS rep about getting more involved in our union.