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Special report: Life in the virtual sweatshops

2008-02-14

Inadequate staffing, unrealistic targets, draconian sickness policies, low pay, poor training, deskilling, excessive monitoring, hostility to unions, and a lack of regard for health and safety.

We will be free!

2008-04-21

With preparations underway for this year's Tolpuddle festival, Tim Lezard of south west TUC examines the martyrs' legacy.

The missing billions

2008-04-18

In the April 2008 edition of Activate, tax campaigner Richard Murphy outlined his analysis of the £33bn lost to the UK economy every year through tax avoidance and planning by the very wealthy.

Busting the busters

2008-04-18

Prevalent in the US for many years, the tactics used by US employers to persuade workers against joining a union are increasingly being used by UK companies.

Prime minister petitioned on pay

2008-03-28

Office for National Statistics rep Graham Greenlees is petitioning the prime minister to fund progression and 'cost of living' pay rises separately in the civil service.

It's not all work, work, work

2008-02-14

The longest working hours in Europe, the shortest lunch breaks, the fewest public holidays, expensive childcare and poor provision for older people. PCS research officer Pam Cole says UK workers don't have it easy.

Sacked rep re-elected by members

2008-04-18

As victimised Child Support Agency rep Eddie Fleming awaits his tribunal hearing, he continues to enjoy massive support from members in Hastings and across the union.

Campaign against climate change

2008-02-12

PCS young members' organiser Tracy Edwards reports back from a joint trade union conference called to tackle the issue of climate change.

And our survey said...

2007-12-03

A full copy of the results of the PCS activists' survey, compiled and analysed by a professor of industrial relations at Middlesex university, is available to download.

Strength, solidarity and pride

2007-11-29

Trades Union Congress academy organiser Kat Dyer explains her priorities and aims for her 12-month placement with PCS.

Migrant workers welcome here

2007-11-29

PCS policy officer Nick Clark explores the issues and uncovers the facts about migrant workers.

A strong and healthy union

2008-02-14

Organising annual meetings is an important part of being a PCS activist, as Department for Work and Pensions group organiser Fran Heathcote explains.

PCS in Palestine - part one

2007-12-24

Hugh Lanning, PCS deputy general secretary, visited Palestine as part of a trade union delegation. This is part one of his daily blog.

PCS in Palestine - part two

2007-12-27

Hugh Lanning, PCS deputy general secretary, visited Palestine as part of a trade union delegation. This is part two of his daily blog.

PCS in Palestine - part three

2007-12-29

Hugh Lanning, PCS deputy general secretary, visited Palestine as part of a trade union delegation. This is part three of his daily blog.

PCS in Palestine - part four

2007-12-31

Hugh Lanning, PCS deputy general secretary, visited Palestine as part of a trade union delegation. This is the final part of his daily blog.

MoD activists meet MEP

2008-01-09

Following the lessons learned from Make Your Vote Count, MoD instructional officers met MEP Jill Evans to discuss ongoing concerns over the defence training review.

Welfare, workers and the class struggle

2007-11-29

Neil Davidson, branch secretary of PCS Edinburgh central, reviews the book New Labour/Hard Labour? Restructuring and resistance inside the welfare industry.

Love Music Hate Racism

2008-01-01

Following the success of our party for public services we look at how to organise your own anti-racist gig.

Say no way to the third way

2007-12-17

With the threat posed by third sector involvement as high as ever we continue to oppose attempts to hive off public services to external providers.

Public services not private profit

2007-12-17

John McDonnell MP, chair of the PCS parliamentary group, provides an update on the joint union campaign to opppose the privatisation of public services.

Q&A: Taking industrial action

2008-04-18

With many of our members engaged in industrial action we look at the law surrounding this, answering some of the most commonly asked questions.

Q&A: Grievances and tribunals - part one

2008-02-08

With individual and collective grievances a fact of working life, we look at some of the key considerations for activists - part one of two.

Q&A: Grievances and tribunals - part two

2008-02-08

With individual and collective grievances a fact of working life, we look at some of the key considerations for activists - part two of two.

Office danger zones

2008-05-01

When it comes to health and safety, the law puts a clear onus on our employers to do everything reasonable to protect us. If you are recognised as a disabled person under the Disability Discrimination Act you are also entitled to reasonable adjustments to your employer?s practices and premises so you are not at a disadvantage.

The time of our lives

2008-05-08

It may not be talked about in union meetings, or even in the staff canteen, but more and more women are working through the menopause. PCS wants to make sure their needs are recognised

A new era for call centre rights

2008-04-22

Poor pay, health and safety abuses and unrealistic targets are often part and parcel of working in a call centre. But a new PCS charter aims to change all that

Success is no accident

2008-04-25

Had an accident? Been injured? Forget the no-win, no-fee deals you've seen on TV and contact PCS?s personal injury scheme instead

A history of the working class

2008-04-22

The Working Class Movement Library (WCML) is a unique treasure house of books, pamphlets and other objects, which needs our ongoing support to stay open.

Our union, our future

2008-04-22

As our first elected national young members' committee gets underway we spoke to chair Mark Chisman about his aims and priorities.

Learning to organise

2008-04-30

PCS education and learning officer Pav Alam looks at how and why to integrate learning with our wider efforts to organise workers and build union strength.

Reps' information service - April

2008-04-22

An update about current cases, tribunals, and useful reports and links, from our reps' information service.

What has the union ever done for us?

2008-04-25

We all know that union reps help negotiate pay and conditions but there are lots of other things they do which often go unnoticed, as we found out

A cr�che course in childcare

2008-04-27

One of the toughest dilemmas any parent faces is when to go back to work, and who will look after our children when we do. Sharon Charity of the Daycare Trust answers some the most common questions

Equality advice line for reps

2008-05-01

Reps dealing with individual cases concerning discrimination can get advice and guidance from the Equality and Human Rights Commission.

Speak up for public services

2008-05-05

PCS reps will join colleagues from other public sector unions at a Speak up for Public Services lobby and rally in London.

Staying safe at work

2008-05-09

Having problems with your office chair, monitor or keyboard? Worried it may be affecting your health? You don�??t have to suffer in silence, says health and safety officer Phil Madelin

Your conference, your issues

2008-05-08

PCS reps will converge on Brighton this month for the union's sixth annual delegate conference, our main policy making arena and the heart of the union's democratic structures.

Dear prime minister...

2008-05-13

The Defend Council Housing campaign has published a new 40-page pamphlet to put the case to the prime minister to invest in council homes.

Terminal turmoil, PCS members in terminal 5

2008-05-09

Instead of fanfares, Heathrow's spanking new Terminal 5 opened to scenes of chaos ? but PCS members continued to provide a service to passengers in this vast new airport

'I am neutral', claims economist

2008-05-14

The economist tasked with a review of contracting and outsourcing in the public sector says she wants to take politics "off the table".

The future of public services: who decides?

2008-02-01

PCS campaigns officer Sarah Kavanagh looks at the appointment of a free market economist to lead a review of public sector provision.

Sign up to save public services

2008-05-16

Activists are being urged to lobby their MPs to support a call to save HMRC offices in the Midlands.

Add skills into the bargain

2008-05-29

We have a real opportunity to put fair access to learning and skills on the bargaining agenda, argues PCS national learning officer David McEvoy.

Take control of your life

2008-05-16

A new workbook has been published to help members make decisions about directions they may want to take with their careers or their lives outside work.

Celebrating our culture

2008-05-29

PCS's northwest office has been busy organising a series of events to commemorate Liverpool's title of 2008 European capital of culture.

Who says music and politics don't mix?

2008-05-30

Thousands of union members will descend on the Dorset village of Tolpuddle next month for the annual martyrs' festival.

And what do you do?

2008-05-30

Not all PCS members spend their working day at a desk or behind a computer - some do rather unexpected jobs, as we found out...

Pay's the priority

2008-05-30

We've protected our pensions, defended our sick leave and are fighting for our jobs, now we're turning our attention to our wage packets.

From here to maternity

2008-05-30

Infertility affects up to three million British couples, many of whom struggle to take time off work for treatment, says PCS's head of equality Pat Campbell.

Taking liberties

2008-05-30

The national identity scheme is on its way, and it's going to change everybody's lives, says Christina Zaba of the campaigning organisation NO2ID.

The battle for the old age pension

2008-05-30

A century after the introduction of the first ever UK state pension, campaigners are still calling for a decent retirement income for all.

Proud to lead the way

2009-06-29

Chair of PCS Proud Jeff Grist outlines how LGBT activists plan to build on the successes we have achieved in recent years.

Campaigning comes naturally to young members

2008-06-24

Over 100,000 PCS members across ten departments took action on 24 April 2008 alongside other public sector workers, including teachers and college lecturers. View from PCS president, Janice Godrich.

More than just a talking shop!

2008-06-24

The National Shop Stewards Network could be a platform for rank and file unionists to begin the fight back for union rights says Mark Chisman, chair of the national young members' committee

A day in the life of a contact centre worker

2008-06-24

Working conditions in contact centres are an issue for many young members in PCS. We asked a young contact centre worker in the DWP what a typical day is like.

What is globalisation?

2008-06-24

We hear a lot these days about globalisation. But what does it mean for workers around the world? Young Members Organiser, Tracy Edwards seeks to explain.

Campaign against climate change!

2008-06-24

Around 500 trade unionists gathered on 9 February 2008 for a trade union conference called by the Campaign Against Climate Change. This conference, believed to be the first of its kind, came about to address the eminent and serious threat that climate change poses to our world and to begin to develop a strategy to build a mass movement around the issue through the trade unions. Tracy Edwards, Young Members Organiser.

Support the Cubans

2008-06-24

Stephen Hallmark from the Cuba Solidarity Campaign explains why we should support Cuba as they fight against the longest trade blockade in modern times.

Training future union leaders

2008-06-24

Young members' organiser Tracy Edwards reports on a new Young Members training course that was recently piloted at the University of Leicester in April 2008.

Elected national young members' committee meets

2008-06-24

The first meeting of the newly elected national young members' committee took place on Saturday 8 March 2008 in Leeds. Young members organiser Tracy Edwards reports what they discussed.

Young members have a lot to say!

2008-06-24

The PCS delegation was one of the most vocal at the TUC young members conference 2008 as James Rolles, London & South East region, reports.

Trade union law explained - a ten point guide

2008-06-24

The Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 took away all trade union laws which union members had fought hard for (in fact, trade union members had more rights 100 years ago). The Act introduced more protection for the employer against unions taking industrial action (or strike action).

Why is climate change a trade union issue?

2008-06-24

This year PCS received so many motions for annual delegate conference (ADC) that an entire section of the agenda is devoted to green issues. We look at some of the reasons why climate change is definitely an issue for trade unions.

PCS at Glastonbury

2008-06-26

PCS once again has a presence at Left Field at this years Glastonbury Festival. Festival goers are able to find out about our campaigns by visiting the PCS stall. There will also be PCS speakers in the Left Field tent including deputy general secretary Hugh Lanning who will be talking about our international work with unions across the world on Thursday, and general secretary Mark Serwotka who joins Tony Benn for his Sunday lunchtime debate.

Working families, juggling priorities

2008-06-30

PCS research officer Pam Cole explains what is covered in our updated factsheets to help members balance their work and home lives.

The leaders of tomorrow

2008-06-30

Eastern region young members' convenor Alan Warner, of Norfolk and Suffolk DWP branch, explains why he got active in our union.

Q&A: Sex discrimination in the workplace

2008-06-30

We look at how important changes to the Sex Discrimination Act in April this year extend protections against harassment and pregnancy discrimination.

Proud at Pride - campaigning for LGBT rights

2008-07-01

PCS Proud is once again making its mark at the TUC LGBT conference and at London Pride celebrations this week. We speak to Jeff Grist, chair of Proud.

On the political front

2008-07-07

After putting our campaigns at the heart of the local elections we now need to keep up the pressure on successful candidates.

Get your own house in order

2008-07-07

PCS equality officer Lorna Campbell reports on the campaign to force government departments to comply with race equality law.

Why do you want to know?

2008-07-07

Arrangements are now in place for membership monitoring on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity.

Why we need more people

2008-07-07

Activists are vital to our success and the more people we have, the more effective we will be, argues national organiser Nigel Venes.

Pay briefing: Pay caps and price rises

2008-07-07

As prices continue to rise, PCS pay unit negotiations officer Larry O'Callaghan outlines the key issues and next steps of our campaign over low and unequal pay.

Reps' information service - June

2008-07-07

An update about current cases, tribunals, and useful reports and links, from our reps' information service.

Reps' information service - August

2008-09-02

An update about current cases, tribunals, and useful reports and links, from our reps' information service.

PCS speaks up for public services

2008-07-07

PCS members took part in a rally and lobby of the Westminster parliament on 9 June over the future of public services and to call for fair pay.

Union campaign saves 200 jobs

2008-07-07

PCS members are celebrating after their campaigns saved 200 jobs in the Ministry of Defence (MoD).

Not Poles apart

2008-07-07

The opening up of the European Union to new states in Eastern Europe has seen a rise in workers from Poland and other new 'accession' states coming into Britain. Many have been filling gaps in the building, agriculture and food industries, but some are now also working in the public sector.

And the award goes to...

2010-04-28

After a fiercely fought contest, PCS has announced the winners of its second annual communications awards We made awards in five categories this year ? best group or branch magazine (both member-produced and professionally produced), best photograph, best article and best branch electronic communications.

When is a celebration a catastrophe?

2008-07-08

As celebrations mark the state of Israel's 60th anniversary, Palestinians continue to face a very different reality, as PCS policy officer Gaynelle Samuel explains.

Economist says more privatisation please

2008-07-10

The report of economist DeAnne Julius's review of public services recommends opening up more services to markets and encouraging developing nations to follow suit.

Road safety: protected thanks to PCS members

2008-08-18

A long running campaign in the Vehicle and Operators Services Agency (VOSA) has seen off proposals to privatise the agency's work. Jim Fitzpatrick MP, minister for Transport, announced the decision in the House of Commons in July, following a two year campaign by PCS members and sister unions Prospect and Unite.

Fascists not welcome here

2008-07-18

Members are urged to join a protest against the BNP's Red, White and Blue fascist rally in Derbyshire.

1,000 mile tour to save offices

2008-08-18

Two intrepid PCS reps traveled over 1,000 miles in five days to tour all of the 19 Scottish tax offices earmarked for closure in the department's latest announcement.

Knife crime - debate

2008-07-14

Each month on PCS comment we will be hosting a debate where you can have your say on important issues of the day, and each month a selection of your comments will be published in PCS View. This month's debate: knife crime.

Research to reduce violence

2008-07-31

Have you been subjected to or witnessed unacceptable behaviour at work, either from a client or a colleague?

Calculate your personal inflation

2008-07-28

Some independent research organisations suggest that rising food, fuel and energy prices hit the poor hardest, while other sources claim that 'middle class inflation' is a major issue.

Going green in a field

2008-08-11

Andy Parsons, green rep at the Natural Environment Research Council, reports on the second Tolpuddle green camp.

Register members for support

2008-08-11

Reps are urged to make sure support grade members in their areas are registered as we relaunch our support and related grades section.

The great divide: rich v poor

2008-08-12

Jaw-dropping facts and figures, compiled by PCS negotiations officer Tom Taylor, show the gap between rich and poor in the UK today.

Q&A: Update on age discrimination

2008-08-13

Almost two years since age discrimination became unlawful, we are beginning to see how these complex provisions are being approached in practice.

Making our voices heard

2008-08-18

For the first time women now make up half of all trade union members in Britain, delegates to our 2008 women's seminar heard.

Rallying against racism

2008-08-18

PCS members took part in a national demonstration against racism in June. The event was organised by Love Music, Hate Racism and Unite Against Fascism to give people a chance to show their opposition to fascist and racist organisations like the British National Party (BNP) and build for a year long campaign ahead of the 2009 European elections.

Flexi-time fight hots up

2008-08-18

Branch officers have launched a campaign for flexible working hours at the East Midlands Development Agency (EMDA). Richard West and Shelley Wilkinson hope the initiative will bring EMDA staff into line with the rest of the civil service where flexible working is a contractual right.

Help when you need it most

2008-08-18

For PCS members struggling to cope with a serious health condition or with an elderly parent or close relative who needs extra support, our dedicated welfare service, PCS Care, is a good place to turn.

Me and my job - Karen Taylor

2010-04-07

When Karen Taylor pays a visit to a building contractor she knows she is helping to plug the UK?s �120 billion tax gap

Protection around the clock

2008-08-18

Part time? Make sure your rights aren't with our guide to the law and balancing your life. Part time working has never been so popular. Whether it's to fit in with childcare responsibilities, care for an elderly or sick relative or take part in further education, more and more people are opting to vary their working patterns.

Building a voice for young workers!

2008-08-22

Branch young members' officers are one of the most important positions within our union; they are the future trade union leaders who will continue our fight for fair pay in the civil service and quality public services for all. We must ensure proper time and resources are given to ensure we support and develop these roles further. Says Helen Flanagan, DWP young members' officer

Get active during young trade unionist week

2008-08-28

Young trade unionist week is your chance to get involved says young members' organiser Tracy Edwards. So what's the week all about?

View from our President

2008-08-28

Thanks to the magnificent determination of PCS members across the country, we have reached a national agreement with the Cabinet Office that gives members better protection from compulsory redundancy. Writes Janice Godrich, PCS national president.

A class apart

2008-08-28

Class is a real equality issue that needs to be addressed in the civil service argues national young members' equalities officer Heather

Glastonbury - my first experience

2008-08-28

Chris Carree from Land Registry Swansea was one of three PCS activists who represented PCS at Glastonbury on our stall in Leftfield this year. Chris describes his experience.

Tomorrow's pensioners

2008-08-28

Young members should acknowledge the importance of the National Pensioners Convention says DWP group young members' officer Helen Flanagan.

Special report: Organise to win

2008-08-29

We need to start planning now for the likelihood of a ballot for national action over pay in the civil and public services in the autumn.

The new green leaders

2008-08-29

It is increasingly clear that environmental issues cannot be solved without unions, argues Sian Jones, chair of the Campaign against Climate Change trade union group.

What price education?

2008-08-29

The government's academy schools agenda is a damaging privatisation of state education, Anti-Academies Alliance campaigns worker Pete Jackson says.

Debate of the month: is the media coverage of MPs expenses fair?

2009-05-28

We have all been shocked by the revelations in the media about MPs expenses. But is the media coverage of the issues fair?

We are the heart of public services

2008-09-04

The jobs our members do keep this country going, yet the effects of unfair pay mean their living standards are under attack.

What's up with public sector pay?

2008-09-04

There's not enough of it, it's unfairly distributed and, worse still for many of us, the situation is getting worse. The government's policy of holding down our pay rises to 2% while prices rise by 4.6% means we face disgraceful cuts in our pay. Resisting these attacks is a crucial challenge for us.

Public sector pay - tell us your stories

2008-09-05

PCS is campaigning for fair public sector pay - we are not asking for any favours, just a decent living wage.

Thursday morning at the TUC

2008-09-11

On the final morning of the TUC's conference, national executive member Paula Brown spoke in support of motion 82 on health and safety at work.

Our first morning at the TUC congress

2008-09-08

Our first speaker at this year's Trade Union Congress was PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka who seconded a motion on public sector pay

Tuesday afternoon at the TUC

2008-09-10

National president Janice Godrich was our first speaker of the session, moving motion 26 on tax justice.

Monday afternoon at the TUC

2008-09-09

Early in the afternoon session, there was a lively debate around the Prison Officers' Association call for a series of general strikes to force the government into a retreat over anti-trade union legislation.

Tuesday morning at the TUC

2008-09-09

Seconding motion 39 on Ministry of Defence cuts, assistant general secretary Chris Baugh told congress that we were working hard to "defend the right to organise and actively defend the rights of all workers in the defence industries."

Wednesday morning at TUC

2008-09-10

Supporting a motion on the new equality bill, vice president Sue Bond told delegates: "This gives us an opportunity to simplify, harmonise and improve the Byzantine and convoluted maze of discrimination law."

TUC - Wednesday afternoon

2008-09-11

Our first speaker of the afternoon session was deputy general secretary Hugh Lanning who took part in the debate about Palestine.

CCTV debate - is CCTV good for society?

2008-09-02

The UK has the highest proportion of closed circuit television or CCTV cameras anywhere in the world.

A fair and sustainable future

2008-11-13

Our 'Becoming a greener union' report presents us with some exciting challenges, writes HMRC union learning rep Richard Leitch.

PCS learning rep wins award

2008-09-12

Congratulations to Janet Johnson who received the union learning rep of the year award at TUC Conference on Tuesday 9th September. Janet, who works in Barnsley Jobcentreplus has been recognised by the TUC as a tireless worker for PCS.

Members say 'yes' to job security

2008-09-16

A breakthrough deal to improve job security and guard against privatisation has received overwhelming support.

Poverty pay puts sea safety at risk

2008-09-16

Members of the public were warned to avoid taking to the seas over the August bank holiday as coastguards launched a 48 hour strike over pay.

Driven to distraction over pay

2008-09-16

A one day strike by PCS members in the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has caused widespread disruption to driving tests and forced many local offices to close or offer a severely restricted service.

Scottish workers vote with their feet

2008-09-16

PCS members working in Scotland's central government departments took two days' strike action this summer in protest at their employer's pay policy.

Coroner's inquest for murdered Jay

2008-09-16

After nine years of campaigning, the coroner has agreed that an inquest into the death of PCS member Jay Abatan will be held next year.

Pride nationwide

2008-09-16

PCS members turned out across the country this summer to celebrate the lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans festival Pride. Cornwall's first ever Pride event took place over the August bank holiday weekend.

Olympic challenge

2008-09-16

As Olympic fever winds down after the close of the Beijing games, PCS members involved in organizing the London 2012 games are stepping up their act. Employed across a range of government departments and agencies, PCS members are working tirelessly in the background to make the London Olympic Games a success.

Cabinet Office guidance on conduct of civil servants during the General Election campaign

2010-04-14

The Cabinet Office has published guidance for civil servants on their conduct during the General Election campaign. This guidance takes effect from Tuesday 6 April 2010.

Workers' Memorial Day - 28 April 2010

2010-04-21

28 April is international commemoration day for dead and injured workers, otherwise known as Workers Memorial Day.

Communications awards 2010 - And the award goes to...

2010-04-21

After a fiercely fought contest, PCS has announced the winners of its second annual communications awards.

10p tax changes - what does this mean for you?

2008-09-22

There has been a lot of talk about the 10p tax changes which affect our September pay packets. In this current climate of high prices, even a small change is important.

Debate: should all kids get free school meals?

2008-09-12

According to the media we are in the midst of an obesity crisis? All the school playing fields have been sold, and our kids seem to live on junk food.

A first time experience of TUC conference

2008-10-06

Despite a heavy workload in her branch, young member and branch organiser Sian Drinkwater from the Electoral commission in London attended this years' TUC congress 2008 in Brighton as an observer.

Fighting privatistion

2008-10-07

Mark Chisman, chair of the national young members' committee, asks - should privatisation be opposed at all costs?

Dealing with debt - a personal experience

2008-10-10

"In the current economic climate, things are only going to get harder for those in debt. With that in mind I decided to tell my story in the hope that it might help others who might be struggling." A young member tells their story.

Activists highlight importance of pay

2008-10-13

PCS activists in Shropshire put public sector pay at the top of the agenda at a trades council meeting with their MP.

Time for big strides

2008-10-14

PCS national equality co-ordinator Ritu Chabra explains what the under representation project has achieved so far and what more we have to do.

Listen to young members

2008-10-16

Union membership among young people continues to be very low, with workers aged 35 and over being three times more likely to be in a union than those aged between 16 and 24.

Mixing pop and politics

2008-10-22

The burning streets of Soho may seem a world away from the muddy fields of Glastonbury, but it's all in a day's work for filmmaker Alan Miles.

Reps' information service - October

2008-10-22

An update about current cases, tribunals, and useful reports and links, from our reps' information service.

Q&A: The pickets' gateway

2008-10-22

With legislation surrounding industrial action heavily stacked in favour of employers, we look at the law and code of conduct on picketing.

Whose welfare do they have in mind?

2008-10-22

As we step up the campaign against the latest welfare reform proposals, PCS campaigns officer Sarah Kavanagh looks at the wider issue of private and third sector involvement.

In the mind of the media

2008-10-23

Every big dispute brings the expectation of wall-to-wall media coverage but it's not as straightforward as that, as PCS national press officer Alex Flynn explains.

Special report: We stand together, we fight together

2008-10-24

Members have shown their anger over the public sector pay cap by voting 'yes' so we must build now for a sustained period of industrial action.

For the few...not the many

2008-10-24

A new report published by the TUC analyses the roots of the growing gap between rich and poor.

This is our real strength

2008-10-24

Focusing on membership density will help us continue to build our strength and diversity, says PCS national organiser Nigel Venes.

Debate: should voluntary euthanasia be legalised?

2008-10-03

Many people from the UK who are faced with terminal illness have taken the decision to go to Switzerland where assisted suicide is legal.

Last few copies of picket DVD

2008-10-29

As we make plans for the national strike on 10 November activists are reminded that we still have copies of the picket DVD we produced last year.

Tenants and trade unionists unite

2008-10-30

Defend Council Housing is bringing together tenants and trade unionists for a national conference.

Activists step up relocation fight

2008-11-04

Activists affected by relocation and office closures are coming together to co-ordinate campaigns and activity.

PCS at the party conferences

2008-11-12

At the Labour Party conference, general secretary Mark Serwotka emphasized the need for a public debate on welfare reform; a view backed by fringe meeting chair Joan Humble - an MP and member of the work and pensions select committee - who stressed "the important job hard working civil servants do" in her constituency.

Campaigners march to end child poverty

2008-11-12

Hundreds of marchers, including many children, gathered at Millbank, near Lambeth Bridge, before proceeding to Trafalgar Square for a rally with speeches and entertainment.

Focus on you - Acas

2008-11-12

PCS members work in hundreds of different government departments, agencies and private sector companies but we often struggle with the same issues. Each month we ask a different group of members, What's it like working at...Acas?

Reaching out to schools

2008-11-12

Less than one in ten 16- to 24-year-olds are in a union, so there's a big job to do in selling the idea of unions to young people. And where better to start than when they are still in school?

Equality reps

2008-11-12

Are you equal to the task? Potential equality reps are being sought as part of a two-year project funded through the union modernisation fund.

Bullying - A virtual disgrace

2008-11-12

National 'ban bullying at work' day, 7 November, is a chance to highlight and tackle the growing problem of cyber bullying says PCS health and safety officer Phil Madelin.

Increased strength following successful recruitment week

2008-11-17

During young trade unionist week 2008 young members successfully organised recruitment and social events up and down the country. Held on 17-21 September 2008, we focused on campaigning against low pay and harsh working conditions - especially for call centre workers.

Legal fund for whistleblower

2008-11-19

Supporters of nurse Karen Reissmann, sacked for speaking out about NHS services, have launched an appeal to help pay her legal costs.

Debate: will Barack Obama win the election

2008-10-24

This debate started before the US presidential election.

Members must keep in touch

2008-11-27

Activists are urged to remind members to contact the union if their address or working arrangements change.

A grievous attack on our rights

2008-11-28

Environment, Food and Rural Affairs group organiser Marilyn Bayes reports on attempts to short-circuit the unions over grievances.

Help shape the union's future

2008-12-01

Dundee convenor Drew Duffy reflects on last year's successful national young members forum and encourages others to apply to attend in 2009.

Proof positive of the power of action

2008-12-09

Our national agreements on job security and privatisation have already benefited members, says research officer Imogen Radford.

Purnell's welfare trick: and no safety net

2008-12-10

The government's welfare reform plans are an unjust attack on the vulnerable, argues PCS campaigns officer Sarah Kavanagh.

At the forefront of struggle

2008-12-11

Black workers have led the fight against the injustices they faced at work and in society, says national executive member Zita Holbourne.

Reps' information service - December

2008-12-12

An update about current cases, tribunals, and useful reports and links, from our reps' information service.

Q&A: The race equality duty

2008-12-12

Seven years on from the introduction of the race equality duty, we look at how organisations have fared with their obligations.

When was the last time you attended a branch meeting?, Voted in an industrial action ballot?, Submitted a motion for debate at conference?, If you are still scratching your head it has probably been too long

Catch the learning bug

2010-04-28

Learning at Work Day 2010, which takes place on Thursday 20 May during Adult Learners? Week, is a great opportunity to promote workplace learning initiatives

Annual roundup - working for you in 2008

2009-02-24

To coincide with the publication of our annual report we take a look at some of the union's key activities over the past year

Focus on you - National Offender Management Service?

2009-02-24

Get involved and be counted

2009-02-24

"Help our political campaigning and keep the fascists out by getting involved in our Make Your Vote Count campaign says national" co-ordinator Sarah Kavanagh

Debate of the month - should we be bailing out the banks?

2009-01-20

While businesses are going bankrupt and people are being made redundant is it appropriate that the government is bailing out the banks?

Campaign in communities to stop welfare bill

2009-03-03

Trade unions, charities and supporters should campaign in their communities to stop the government's welfare reform plans.

New ACAS code: what you need to know

2009-03-04

We look at what reps need to know about the new procedures for disciplinaries and grievances that come into force next month.

Learning with the firefighters

2009-03-06

We have stood shoulder to shoulder with firefighters many times and now our members can learn together thanks to a new agreement.

Tax justice, not tax havens

2009-03-12

As part of our Global Problems, Public Solutions campaign we are calling for a clampdown on overseas tax dodging by UK companies.

Better by design

2009-03-23

To mark the launch of our communications awards, PCS�??s design studio manager, Siân Manaz explains some of the basics of how to design a branch newsletter

Tax justice

2009-03-23

As the debate on the economic crisis turns increasingly to the issue of tax, PCS members, together with the wider trade union movement and other organisations, have been fighting to close the tax gap

When the injury gets personal

2009-03-23

In just one example of why our union matters, we secured £4.7m in personal injury compensation for members last year

Q&A: Employment Doctor - May 2010

2010-04-28

Our reps handle thousands of work problems each year on behalf of PCS members. Here are just a few of the issues that have cropped up

Supporting members

2009-03-23

We are urging our senior and specialist grade members to get involved in a network to promote the interests of managers

PCS hero wins bravery award

2009-03-30

A PCS member from the Metropolitan Police has been commended for bravery.

Reps' information service - April

2009-03-31

An update about recent cases, tribunals, and useful reports and links, from our reps' information service.

Debate of the month - should parenting classes be compulsory?

2009-03-03

The media is always telling us that kids are running wild, and that young people are out of control.

Q&A: Holiday pay and sick absence

2009-04-02

The European Court of Justice's ruling about holiday pay during sickness absence is an important decision for employees.

Members to meet and frame pay campaign

2009-05-27

As View went to press, conference was expected to agree that members will be consulted about the future of our national pay campaign to consider how we respond to the governments' failure to honour the agreement we reached last year.

'Green but keen' in Whitehaven

2009-04-02

HMRC group executive member for northern England contact centres John Davidson reports on a mass recruitment drive.

Register and vote: make it count

2009-04-03

Make Your Vote Count national co-ordinator Sarah Kavanagh introduces a series of articles looking at the issues around the European election campaign.

Europe is on our doorstep

2009-04-03

The European elections are about core local issues as Brian Synnott, campaigns officer for the European Federation of Public Service Unions, explains.

Victory for 'the people's club'

2009-04-03

North west Make Your Vote Count co-ordinator Lavinia O'Connor explains how communities can come together to say the BNP are not welcome.

Ten years on from Lawrence

2009-04-03

A decade after the groundbreaking Macpherson report into Stephen Lawrence's murder, Dr Richard Stone has reviewed race relations and policing.

'25 years on, I still get emotional'

2009-04-06

PCS national officer Dave Cliff recalls how the 1984 miners' strike reshaped the personal and political lives of those like him who took part.

Take the fight online

2009-04-06

We should be using the internet more to put our arguments across and raise the profile of our campaigns, PCS web officer Michael Laffan argues.

Forum success

2009-04-06

Over the weekend of 31 Jan - 1 Feb 2009, around 70 young members travelled from across the country for the 4th national young members forum in Milton Keynes. Young member representatives share their highlights.

Workers Memorial Day

2009-04-20

28 April is international commemoration day for dead and injured workers, otherwise known as Workers Memorial Day.

What does the future hold for us?

2009-04-06

At this year's young members' forum, the campaign "Youth Fight for Jobs" struck a chord amongst delegates. Lincs YM convenor Nick Parker speaking in a personal capacity tells us why we need initiatives like this.

Temporary shouldn't mean second-rate

2009-04-07

Agency workers are due to get equal rights as a result of a long-awaited European directive.

Learning in Liverpool

2009-04-07

In an unprecedented step more than 160 learning reps from Ministry of Defence, Department for Work and Pensions and the justice sector came together to discuss union learning.

New reps' helpline card published

2009-04-20

A new reps' helpline card has been produced and was issued with the April edition of Activate.

Myths, the media and our members

2009-04-28

We need to challenge the claims in some sections of the media that civil and public servants are well paid and will retire on generous pensions.

Our conference, our issues

2009-04-28

PCS reps will converge on Brighton this month for the union's seventh annual conference ? our main policy making arena and the heart of our union?s democratic structures.

PCS on Twitter

2009-05-18

You may have heard about the new internet sensation Twitter. Well now you can follow PCS on Twitter.

Develop a healthier frame of mind

2009-04-28

Mental health problems will affect one in four of us at some point in our lives, but the stigma associated with them means few of us will seek the help we need. Campaigning charity Time to Change looks at why attitudes need to change

Child poverty - A manifesto for our future

2009-04-28

There is still a long way to go to end child poverty says Kate Green, Child Poverty Action Group chief executive In 1999 prime minister Tony Blair announced a 20-year mission for ours to be �??the first generation to end child poverty�?�.

Me and my job - Matthew Farrall

2010-04-28

As a specialist in ?injurious weeds? Matthew Farrall?s work is helping to preserve the environment and protect livestock and agriculture

Protecting our jobs and our futures

2009-04-28

One year on from the agreement of a jobs protection protocol PCS research officer Imogen Radford reviews its impact and looks at some of its many successes

Action counts to stop the far right

2009-04-30

Activists can plan their activity to help stop the far right in the June elections with our new Make Your Vote Count spring calendar.

Debate - is policing of demonstrations heavy handed

2009-04-02

2009-06-08

Both the PCS national young members�?? committee and annual delegate conference support the Youth Fight for Jobs campaign. We asked Sean Figg, national organiser to explain why this initiative is needed.

Arrival in Jerusalem - day one, Saturday

2009-06-15

The separation barrier - day two in Palestine

2009-06-16

Seeing the oppression first hand, Monday in Palestine

2009-06-17

Let them work - Refugee Week

2009-06-18

PCS, along with the TUC and other organisations, is supporting the Refugee Council's Let Them Work campaign.

Visiting Nablus, Tuesday in Palestine

2009-06-18

Press the G8 to act against poverty

2009-06-22

The G8 leaders are due to meet on 8 July in Italy for the G8 summit. They have a unique opportunity to act urgently against poverty.

Grassroots activism - Thursday in Palestine

2009-06-21

Final thoughts from Palestine

2009-06-23

London Living Wage

2009-06-24

London branches are being invited to attend a meeting to launch our London Living Wage campaign.

New cash to promote greener living

2009-06-25

PCS has successfully bid for money from a new £6 million Defra fund set up to help voluntary organisations develop environmental projects.

Disabled members campaign for change

2009-06-25

While many PCS activists were in Brighton at our national conference, a small group of disabled members were at Congress House, London, for the 2009 Trades Union Congress (TUC) disability conference.

Members to decide pay priorities

2009-06-25

This summer we are launching a wide ranging consultation with members to agree the future of our national pay campaign, as decided at our annual conference in May.

Focus on you - DVLA

2009-06-25

Relocation ? on our terms

2010-04-28

The government?s proposals to relocate thousands of civil servants from London need to be negotiated with the union says research officer Imogen Radford

Focus on you ? HP Enterprise Services?

2010-04-28

PCS members work in hundreds of different government departments, agencies and private sector companies but we often struggle with the same issues. Each month we ask a different group of members

Reps' information service - June

2009-07-07

An update about recent cases, tribunals, and useful reports and links, from our reps' information service.

Mark Serwotka on You and Yours

2009-06-30

Mark Serwotka, PCS general secretary, was the guest on You and Yours the Radio 4 phone-in programme today.

Pay us a living wage

2009-06-30

Reps and pay negotiators met today to launch a campaign to improve conditions for low paid workers in London.

BNP not welcome here

2009-07-02

PCS activists joined students and anti-fascist campaigners in a protest outside the first council meeting of a newly-elected BNP member.

For public services, equality and solidarity

2009-07-03

Make Your Vote Count national co-ordinator Sarah Kavanagh reports back on our campaign and looks ahead to the future.

What we did where votes counted

2009-07-03

A round-up of our Make Your Vote Count campaign in the regions and nations.

We're not going anywhere: get used to it

2009-07-03

London and south east MYVC co-ordinator Tom Flynn gives a personal account of a death threat he received from political thugs.

For the record: improving iMembership

2009-07-03

Following consultation with activists, we are improving and extending the facilities for branches to directly amend centrally-held records.

All for one and one for all

2009-07-06

Activists should help to build and get involved in local trades councils says Austin Harney, Public Guardianship Office assistant branch secretary.

Green rep on the fourth plinth

2009-08-21

A PCS rep will become the first trade unionist to appear as a living work of art on the fourth plinth in Trafalgar Square.

Wide-ranging consultation to shape campaign

2009-07-06

The future of our national campaign is in our members' hands after conference agreed we will consult about the next steps.

Leaner does not always mean fitter

2009-07-06

University researcher Douglas Martin is analysing the spread of Lean in the civil service and what it means for our members' jobs.

Migration, Muslims and mythology

2009-07-06

Researchers Nissa Finney and Ludi Simpson outline the key arguments in their recent book that challenges the myths of race and migration.

Mental health is a union issue

2009-07-07

Unions can play a pivotal role in breaking down workplace stigma about mental health and wellbeing, argues journalist Mark Brown.

Debate: is a university degree worth having?

2009-07-07

Nowadays more and more people are heading off to university to get a degree. But is it a degree really worth having?

Save our support services

2009-07-08

Revenue and Customs activists in London have launched a petition as part of a campaign to save support services jobs.

Help at work for violence at home

2009-07-08

Reps and negotiators are being given guidance to ensure victims of domestic violence and abuse are fully supported in the workplace.

PCS wins two TUC awards

2009-07-09

PCS picked up two top spots at this year's TUC communications awards winning the best website and best feature categories.

PCS at Tolpuddle

2009-07-13

In 1834 six farm labourers from Tolpuddle were arrested on a charge of taking part in an 'illegal oath' ceremony.

A victory for all workers

2009-07-13

Vindicated trade unionist Rob Williams thanks PCS for our support in securing his reinstatement in what is an important victory.

A right Royle rally

2009-07-13

PCS activists joined fellow trade unionists and actor Ricky Tomlinson at a march and rally for justice for the Shrewsbury 24.

Black and white, unite and fight

2009-07-14

A rally against the BNP in Lincoln won support from the public and will help to build union solidarity, reports PCS activist Nick Parker.

PCS communications awards 2009 judges' comments

2009-07-17

Our first ever communications awards were a real success thanks to the enthusiasm and involvement of PCS branches and groups.

A barrier to overcome

2009-08-13

Facility time is an issue for those interested in getting involved with the young members' network. Lincolnshire convenor Nick Parker explains why he's found it difficult to take part in activity.

There is power in a union

2009-07-29

Three major UK unions are campaigning to save jobs at the National Grid's Newcastle office.

General secretary responds to Daily Mail

2009-07-31

General secretary Mark Serwotka's response to the Daily Mail article about proposed changes to the civil service compensation scheme is reproduced here.

Debate: do kids spend too much time playing computer games?

2009-08-05

Gone are the days when our children spent their time playing ring-a-ring-of-rosies or conkers. Now young people are more likely to be in front of the television playing Grand Theft Auto or Halo.

Equal rights for agency workers

2009-08-05

One in three directly employed staff are paid more than agency workers for doing the same work, a new survey has revealed.

How to set up a young members' network

2009-08-13

Young workers account for 10 per cent of our total membership yet only one per cent are active in our union.

Anti-fascists blockade the BNP

2009-08-18

PCS activists joined anti-fascist campaigners from across the country to protest against the British National Party's Red, White and Blue festival.

Heads they win, tails we lose?

2009-08-13

Unless you've taken unpaid sabbatical on Mars for the last few months, you couldn't have escaped recent media reports that public sector spending cuts are both inevitable and necessary. Midlands YM convenor Adam Wissen says this isn't the case.

Fight for our future

2009-08-13

In September, unemployment amongst young people is expected to reach one million. The capitalist crisis is shaping the Youth Fight for Jobs campaign and making it increasingly relevant and important says Tracy Edwards, YM organiser.

Solidarity forever

2009-08-13

Before trade unions existed, the Tolpuddle Martyrs were a group of 19th century labourers convicted and deported for swearing a secret oath as members of a trade society. Wales YM convenor Chris Musgrave went to the annual festival in Dorset to celebrate their memory.

Members make the case for jobs in video

2009-08-14

Revenue and Customs activists campaigning to save support services jobs in London have made a video to highlight members' concerns.

Vestas fight is our fight

2009-08-14

HMRC Portsmouth Vectis branch officer Steve Gibbs reports how local activists got involved in the Vestas campaign on the Isle of Wight.

Become an employment tribunal member

2009-08-17

The Tribunal Service is currently looking to recruit people to serve on employment tribunal panels and applications are encouraged from women, disabled, LGBT and people from black and ethnic minority communities who are currently under represented.

Activists keep Vestas campaign turning

2009-08-19

Trade unionists are holding a public meeting to discuss the next stages of the campaign for green jobs in the wake of the Vestas occupation.

Listen, learn and build the union

2009-08-20

Unions can build on the work they have done to improve the skills of working people, says the new head of the TUC's learning body.

Throw the book at blacklisters

2009-08-20

The government should send out a clear message that blacklisting union members is totally unacceptable and will be outlawed.

Oppression lit a spark in me

2009-08-20

PCS national executive member Zita Holbourne recalls how the struggle against apartheid in South Africa inspired her.

Pay us a living wage

2009-08-21

PCS London and south east regional chair Clive Bryant introduces our living wage campaign to tackle poverty pay in the capital.

London calling: the divided city

2009-08-21

A living wage campaign for Underground cleaners continues despite successes last year, says RMT London Transport regional council secretary Janine Booth.

The high cost of low wages

2009-08-21

Income inequality is the scourge of modern society, argues Kathryn Busby, policy and campaigns manager at the newly-formed Equality Trust.

Demand a new direction

2009-08-21

PCS has joined a coalition of trade unions and campaign groups to lobby the Labour party's annual conference.

Say no to cut price job cuts

2009-08-21

The government's proposals to radically cut redundancy payments under the civil service compensation scheme must be resisted by every member.

Norwich turned into a rainbow

2009-08-25

PCS and other trade unions and trade councils showed massive support for the first ever Norwich pride event that took place on Saturday 25 July.

Secure future for security workers

2009-08-25

Security Industry Authority branch secretary Catherine Day reports on how they won recognition for a hard to reach group of workers.

Reps' information service - August

2009-08-25

An update about recent cases, tribunals, and useful reports and links, from our reps' information service.

Challenging privatisation

2009-08-26

We are running a series of events to enable activists to campaign against privatisation, writes John Medhurst from the PCS research team.

Debate: should vegetarianism be encouraged?

2009-08-26

We live in a part of the world where we have easy access to fresh affordable meat. But is this a good thing for our health? And is it damaging to the environment?

Q&A: The equality bill - disability discrimination

2009-09-02

How the equality bill published in April could help disabled people show they have been treated less favourably because of their disability.

How the fascists crawl over the web

2009-09-02

Research into the BNP's online activities reveals deep-rooted links with violent extremists and neo-nazis, reports Activate editor Richard Simcox.

Ban Brum rally of hate

2009-09-03

Reps and members are asked to press Birmingham councillors to call a halt to an Islamophobic march planned for this weekend.

Meet to build for Labour demo

2009-09-04

Activists organising a lobby of the Labour party's annual conference are holding a public meeting to discuss the case for jobs, education and peace.

TUC broadcasts to Muslim radio

2009-09-07

The TUC and the Muslim Council of Britain have recorded bulletins being broadcast on community radio stations during Ramadan.

Plan now for compensation scheme meetings

2009-09-07

Activists have been reminded they need to plan members' meetings to discuss our response to proposals to cut the civil service compensation scheme.

No place to Question the BNP

2009-09-08

PCS is supporting a campaign calling on the BBC to reverse its decision to invite BNP leader Nick Griffin onto Question Time.

If you know your history...

2009-09-11

A guide offering further reading and information has been produced to accompany PCS's series of trade union history talks.

Focus on you - National Archives

2009-09-11

Islanders fight to save public services

2009-09-14

PCS are supporting the fight to save public services on the Isle of Wight.

Debate: should plastic bags be banned?

2009-09-23

It is estimated that each year 500 billion plastic bags are used around the world. The majority are only used once, and often very briefly.

TUC 2009 - Monday morning

2009-09-14

PCS had a good start to the TUC conference with national president Janice Godrich seconding the motion on opposing the far right.

Your vote counts: make a difference

2010-04-07

April is an important month for our Make Your Vote Count campaign. Over the next six pages we look at how you

Personal injury

2010-04-07

An accident at work causes enough worries without having to find the money to pay for legal advice. Fortunately, PCS members enjoy a free legal service from the day they join the union.

Bonus? What bonus?

2009-09-14

PCS has condemned plans to increase the proportion of civil servants? salaries that are made up of bonuses.

Second class treatment, first rate skills

2009-09-14

Vulnerable and exploited, agency workers can be dismissed at will, poorly paid and undervalued. According to a new TUC survey, one in three agency workers are paid less than their permanent colleagues despite doing similar work.

Paris break helps attract new members

2009-09-14

The prize of a weekend break for two in the world?s most romantic city helped make a success of a PCS recruitment drive in the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

TUC 2009 - Monday afternoon

2009-09-15

The important issues of public service provision and decent pensions for all dominated the first afternoon of the TUC congress.

TUC 2009 - Tuesday morning

2009-09-15

Opening our contributions on the second day of the TUC conference, national executive member Mary Ferguson spoke in support of unemployed workers' centres.

TUC 2009 - Tuesday afternoon

2009-09-15

The Tuesday afternoon session opened with the presentation of TUC awards to union activists, including Helen Flanagan and Yvonne Washbourne from PCS.

TUC 2009 - Wednesday morning

2009-09-16

On Wednesday morning at TUC annual congress PCS delegate Phyllis Opoku-Gyimah spoke in support of vulnerable workers.

TUC 2009 - Wednesday afternoon

2009-09-16

Tony Conway of the Government Office Network opened PCS's interventions on the third afternoon of the TUC conference.

TUC 2009 - Thursday morning

2009-09-17

PCS received unanimous support for our campaign to protect the civil service compensation scheme on the final morning of the TUC conference.

Who do they think they are?

2009-09-28

A campaign against cuts to jobs and services at the National Archives is winning support from historians and academics.

A real credit to our union

2009-09-28

As we prepare to launch our credit union, project manager Rebecca Bennett outlines the tasks and opportunities for activists.

'Let it be told to the future'

2009-09-29

A play about the life of a revolutionary excise officer from Norfolk is both funny and inspiring, says PCS senior national officer Nick McCarthy.

Solidarity helps striking teachers to victory

2009-09-29

Teachers from a college in east London have thanked other union activists for their support after their four-week strike ended in success.

Tax the money-go-round

2009-09-29

A tax on the currency speculators would curb City excesses and help the world's poor, argues John Hilary executive director of anti-poverty charity War on Want.

Sign up for a new direction

2009-09-30

Unions campaigning for public spending and investment have launched a petition to urge the government to change direction.

Reps' information service: October

2009-10-05

An update about recent cases, tribunals, and useful reports and links, from our reps' information service.

The beaten generation?

2009-10-05

Following another successful young trade unionist week, PCS young members' organiser Tracy Edwards introduces our series looking at how the youth are fighting back.

Young, gifted and broke

2009-10-05

We must act to prevent a generation being lost as a result of the economic crisis, says chair of our national young members' committee Alan Warner.

What did you learn at school today?

2009-10-05

Young activists Cara Nurse and Lucy Robinson explain why they are involved in a project to teach 6th formers and school leavers about trade unions.

Fight for every job

2009-10-05

Unions are crucial to bringing young workers and the unemployed youth together says Sean Figg, national organiser of the Youth Fight for Jobs campaign.

Youth hero picks up award

2009-10-08

Young activist Helen Flanagan received the youth award at this year's TUC conference from prime minister Gordon Brown.

Debate: did Barack Obama deserve the Nobel peace prize?

2009-10-13

Less than a year ago Barack Obama was elected in atmosphere of hope and optimism. With war raging in Afghanistan and troops still occupying Iraq is it right that he won the Nobel peace prize?

Stop the closure of the Met Police human trafficking team

2009-10-15

Recent press reports have indicated that the Metropolitan Police human trafficking team may be closed.

Protest at BBC over BNP invite

2009-10-15

Anti-fascist campaigners are holding a national protest against the BBC's decision to invite the BNP onto Question Time.

Cuts are no cure for global crisis

2009-10-16

Public sector pay and job cuts will not solve the global economic crisis, European trade unions say.

Celebrating diversity in Wales

2009-10-23

The Welsh and English Defence Leagues have caused widespread anger in towns and cities across the country. Claiming to be a non racist organisation that fights against 'radical Islam',this group represents division, hatred and violence. Wales YM convenor Chris Musgrave went along to a protest in Swansea recently.

Me and my job - David Clayton

2009-10-26

In the first of our new series looking at the jobs our members do, we speak to court clerk David Clayton about his role and responsibilities.

Back from the break

2009-10-26

Returning to work after a break can be a daunting prospect but with a little forethought and planning there?s no reason why everything shouldn?t run like clockwork

Stop bullying now

2009-10-26

National Ban Bullying week, 16 ? 20 November, is a chance to highlight and tackle this growing problem

2009-12-08

MPs are frequently in the news for what some would deem the wrong reasons, but should the personal conduct of an MP matter?

Unions to remember Holocaust

2009-12-11

A charity is calling on trade unionists to mark a major anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp.

Agency workers frame response

2009-12-17

Comments from reps and agency staff are included in PCS's official response to the government's consultation about temporary workers.

Political campaigning - Consultation with branches on ADC 2009 motion A72

2009-12-23

Would you pay for online news?

2010-01-06

News Corp, owners of the Sun and Times newspapers have announced plans to charge customers for news content from its websites.

Surplus value of unpaid overtime

2010-01-12

Workers in the UK gave away �27.4bn worth of their labour in unpaid overtime last year, according to official statistics.

'It's hearing it out loud that hurt'

2010-01-14

Confirmation that 130 under-threat tax offices will close has hit Revenue and Customs members hard, reports Stockton branch executive rep Alexandra Allport.

Should airport security be tougher?

2010-01-20

Prime Minister Gordon Brown has stated that full body scanners will be introduced at Britain's airports.

Me and my job - Sarah Beamson

2010-01-25

Working at a small organisation in the north east of England, Sarah Beamson helps authors get paid when their books are loaned out by libraries

Focus on you - Land Registry

2010-01-25

Fairtrade - Fair?s fair

2010-01-25

Fairtrade Fortnight is a chance to change your shopping habits and make a difference to the lives of farmers in developing countries

PCS+

2010-01-25

PCS is obviously your first port of call when you are facing difficulties at work but did you know we can also offer you access to help and advice for your life outside your job?

Q&A: Employment Doctor - February 2010

2010-01-26

Our reps handle thousands of work problems each year on behalf of PCS members. Here are just a few of the issues that have cropped up

Holocaust Memorial Day - 27 January

2010-01-26

On 27th January 1945, Auschwitz-Birkenau was liberated by Soviet troops.

Holocaust Memorial Day is the international day of remembrance for the victims and survivors of the Holocaust and subsequent genocides.

Low pay and industrial action at the National Gallery

2010-01-28

In December, PCS members in the National Gallery overwhelmingly rejected their 2009 pay offer, as did members of the other unions.

Stars come out for Haiti

2010-01-28

The TUC is holding a concert to raise money for the relief effort following the earthquake in Haiti.

When I get to the border

2010-02-03

PCS deputy general secretary Hugh Lanning records his thoughts on his efforts to join the latest Viva Palestina convoy to Gaza.

Reps' information service: February

2010-02-03

An update about recent cases, tribunals, and useful reports and links, from our reps' information service.

Young members to debate the future

2010-02-05

Up to 100 young members will take part in debates and discussions about building our union in 2010.

Update on political campaigning - Consultation with branches on ADC 2009 motion A72

2010-02-11

Branch briefing: February 2010

Poverty pay to mind the masterpieces

2010-02-17

Gallery staff paid poverty wages to guard multi-million pound artworks almost entirely closed one of London's most prestigious attractions in a walkout.

Should prisoners have the right to vote?

2010-02-11

A pressure group has warned that the general election will be illegal unless prisoners are given the right to vote.

Increase in complaints against dismissal

2010-02-12

While overall claims to tribunal fell last year, the number of cases about unfair dismissal and redundancy pay rose, says employment lawyer Emma Hawksworth.

MYVC - Use your vote, don't lose it

2010-02-22

With the delivery of public services high on the political agenda, there has never been a more important time for PCS members to play their part in the general and local elections

Discrimination: Illegal or just unfair?

2010-02-22

We all know how it feels to be treated unfairly. But to show you are being discriminated against involves taking a giant step into a complex legal maze

Me and my job - Sarah Marsh

2010-02-22

Sarah Marsh is a paralegal officer for the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) in Bradford, working with a fellow paralegal officer and a lawyer and dealing with Halifax and Huddersfield magistrates? courts and Crown courts.

Focus on you - Ministry of Defence

2010-02-22

Q&A: Employment Doctor - March 2010

2010-02-22

Our reps handle thousands of work problems each year on behalf of PCS members. Here are just a few of the issues that have cropped up

Sign up to fight fascism

2010-02-22

PCS has launched a new email newsletter for members to keep up to date with the latest information about our campaign against the far right.

Fight to keep loans jobs in Glasgow

2010-02-26

Members campaigning against savage job cuts at the Student Loans Company are gaining support on an online petition.

Fixed for action to defend jobs

2010-03-03

Fixed term and casual staff are being urged to join PCS and take part in industrial action over cuts to the civil service compensation scheme.

Help for members in hardship

2010-03-04

PCS is asking other unions and supporters to back the strike next week by making donations to a hardship fund.

Compensation scheme lobby success

2010-03-08

PCS activists from across the country descended on parliament yesterday (3 March) to demonstrate their anger at the government's proposals to cut their redundancy payments.

Should all dogs be insured?

2010-03-12

The government has proposed compulsory insurance for all dog owners to ensure victims of attacks are compensated.

We can't abandon towns to fascists

2010-03-29

PCS rep Rachel Edwards provides a first-hand account of the anti-fascist protest against the English Defence League in Bolton.

How a handful became thousands

2010-03-30

PCS rep and secretary of the Defend the Whittington Hospital Coalition Dave Plummer outlines how their community campaign has been built.

Should we all contribute to care for the elderly?

2010-04-01

The government has proposed introducing a compulsory levy to fund social care for adults in England.

Q&A: Employment Doctor - April 2010

2010-04-07

Our reps handle thousands of work problems each year on behalf of PCS members. Here are just a few of the issues that have cropped up

Know your history

2010-05-04

In the first of a new series to feature in the young members' newsletter looking at trade union history, YM organiser Tracy Edwards looks at the 1984-85 Miners? Strike and why the lessons are important today.

A Greek tragedy?

2010-05-04

Hundreds of thousands of public and private sector workers, young and older took to the streets of Greece on 11 March 2010 for their third and biggest general strike against savage austerity plans. As civil servants in Greece face massive cuts, the young members' newsletter looks at what?s happening.

Young members get organised

2010-05-04

Agreed by the national young members? committee, the first ever young members? organising strategy seeks to focus our work in a clearer way.

�3,600 for worker injured by work boots

2010-05-24

A Highways Agency member from Birmingham, who had to take three months off work after she was forced to wear unsuitable footwear, has received �3,600 in compensation.

Focus on you - Jobcentre Plus

Prime minister David Cameron and his deputy Nick Clegg have sent public sector workers a letter about spending cuts, asking for ideas about getting more for less.

It?s Black History month ? so how will future historians look back on 2010? A record number of black and minority ethnic Members of Parliament were elected in May?s general election. The figure all but doubled ? from 14 to 27.

What's it like working at the Charity Commission?

2010-09-20

Quick action could save your life

2010-09-20

Breast cancer survival rates have improved a lotin recent years, but it is still the most common form of cancer in the UK

Q&A: Employment Doctor - October 2010

2010-09-20

Each year PCS reps handle thousands of work problems on behalf of members. Here are just a few of the issues that have cropped up

TUC backs national demo against youth unemployment

2010-09-23

At the annual meeting of trade unions last week, brought together by the Trade Union Congress (TUC), a motion calling for action on youth unemployment, beginning with a national demonstration by the end of this year, was overwhelmingly passed.

Pressure mounts on HMRC as more staff blow whistle

2010-09-24

The latest media investigations into understaffing and resourcing at HM Revenue and Customs support PCS's demand for cuts to be reversed.

Reduced pension rights would make staff more likely to leave Soca

2010-09-24

Reduced pension rights coupled with a pay freeze would give highly skilled, experienced PCS members fewer incentives to stay with the Serious and Organised Crime Agency (Soca) and could undermine the fight against crime.

PCS stresses there is an alternative to Liberal Democrats

2010-09-24

The PCS message there is an alternative to the spending cuts was taken to the Liberal Democrat conference in Liverpool.

2010 Civil service people survey

2010-09-27

Distribution of questionnaires for the 2010 People Survey begins in Civil Service departments and agencies and in Crown NDPBs from 27 September. The survey will run until 28 October.

Our alternative pamphlet is inspiring

2010-09-28

Our national campaign continues to grow and it is vital everybody plays a part to get the message out and oppose the government's vicious attacks.

Should we pay people to make better health choices?

2010-09-28

Cash incentives could be offered to encourage people to give up smoking or to lose weight under proposals considered by the health advisory body for England and Wales.

Widespread support at Labour Party conference

2010-09-29

This year, for the first time PCS has a stand at the Labour party conference.

Next steps in our national campaign to defend jobs, pay, pensions and public services

2010-10-01

The union is continuing to build support for our national campaign to defend members' jobs, pensions, pay and public services from the Coalition Government's programme of cuts. This briefing updates branches on activities undertaken and planned.

Branches are urged to participate in events held regionally and locally in the week of the Comprehensive Spending Review (20 October) and to organise members' meetings to promote the PCS alternative to cuts.

Campaign update

2010-10-01

We are writing to PCS branches to let members know the latest on our 'There is an alternative campaign'.

Treasury intervenes to scupper agreement on CSCS

2010-10-01

This briefing updates reps on talks with the Cabinet Office on changes to the Civil Service Compensation Scheme (CSCS).

Treasury scuppers progress on redundancy pay

2010-10-01

Talks aimed at reaching an agreement on changes to civil servants? redundancy pay are under threat after the Treasury imposed an arbitrary limit on payments.

Cuts will hit most deprived areas

2010-10-05

Spending cuts could place new demands on the country?s most deprived areas, particularly those reliant on public sector jobs

Fighting back against attacks on equality

2010-10-07

The government's cuts will deepen inequality on a scale we have not seen for generations, with a particularly devastating impact on women, young people, black communities and disabled people.

Stress the 21st century epidemic

2010-10-05

Carl Banks, PCS equality (LGBT) and health and safety officer, says increasingly we are seeing representatives experiencing high levels of work-related stress (WRS) because of rising personal caseloads, attacks on facility time and their rights, and when negotiations become frustratingly entrenched. It is hardly surprising then that stress has become ?the 21st century epidemic?

Fawcett Society's case against the government

2010-10-05

The Fawcett Society, the leading campaign group for equality between women and men, has launched a legal challenge against the government for failing to consider the impact on inequality of its proposed cuts. Anna Bird, the charity's head of policy and campaigns, outlines the case

CSR impact analysis

2010-10-22

The government's spending review announced this week is the biggest attack on jobs and public services for decades. PCS has considered the initial impact of the cuts for public sector workers.

PCS Credit Union could meet your finance needs

2010-10-05

The credit union?s final documentation for applying for Financial Services Authority (FSA) authorisation is currently being considered.

PCS statement on the civil service compensation scheme

2010-10-07

The PCS national executive committee has met today to consider an offer from the Cabinet Office on changes to the Civil Service Compensation Scheme (CSCS).

Unions united against the cuts

2010-10-12

Millions of public sector workers are uniting to defend jobs, conditions and services from government cuts and their unions are right behind them

MPs drop in and hear PCS concerns about our redundancy scheme

2010-10-12

PCS held a very successful parliamentary drop-in briefing today (12 October) with more than 30 MPs attending to hear deputy general secretary Hugh Lanning and research officer Chris Haswell outline our concerns about the superannuation bill.

Sign up for our campaigns newsletter

2010-10-14

Keep in touch with all the latest news from PCS by receiving our monthly campaigns newsletter.

Lobby your MP on 19 October

2010-10-14

Crucial to our campaign against the austerity cuts will be the political pressure we can put on coalition government politicians.

New terms tabled for compensation scheme

2010-12-23

The Government tabled the new terms for the Civil Service Compensation Scheme (CSCS) on 21 December.

Compensation scheme update 14 October - Talks on redundancy re-open

2010-10-14

The national executive committee (NEC) agreed on the 7 October that the latest offer on the civil service compensation scheme from the Cabinet Office was unacceptable and to propose further negotiations with the Minister, Francis Maude MP.

Should the smoking ban be lifted?

2010-10-15

The debate about the smoking ban has been reopened by an MP's attempt to introduce a bill to exempt pubs and clubs from the blanket ban, and give private members' clubs the option to have a smoking room.

TUC lobby a great success

2010-10-20

PCS members were well represented among the estimated 3,000 people attending the TUC organised lobby of MPs on the eve of the comprehensive spending review (19 October).

Comprehensive spending review

2010-10-20

The government is set to announce today austerity measures that will make 490,000 public sector workers jobless over the next five years.

Me and my job - Sheila Blackshaw

2010-10-20

Sheila Blackshaw's role at the Service Personnel and Veterans Agency helps improve the lives of armed forces personnel and war veterans.

What's it like working at Capita Filestores?

2010-10-20

Prevention is better than cure - why the union is key in the fight against bullies

2010-10-20

Workplace bullying is a very real problem for thousands of people every day. There is no need to suffer in silence thanks to new laws introduced in the past 10 years.

Workers unite to defend jobs and services

2010-10-20

Members of Britain's six million trade unions have pledged to fight public sector cuts with co-ordinated industrial action if necessary.

Employment doctor

2010-10-20

Our reps handle thousands of work problems each year on behalf of PCS members. Here are just a few of the issues that have cropped up

Transforming attitudes

2010-10-20

Everyone has a role in creating workplaces where people are acknowledged for their professionalism not snubbed because of the way they lead their lives

Video of TUC lobby of parliament and rally

2010-10-20

Watch the video of thousands joining the TUC rally against the government's swingeing cuts

Spending review protesters gain support from public

2010-10-20

Staff and members of revenue and customs, along with colleagues in other government departments anxiously awaited the announcement of the comprehensive spending review outside the department in Whitehall today (20 October).

Fujitsu final pay offer 2010

2010-10-21

Fujitsu has presented PCS with its 2010 pay offer.

Coalition of Resistance rally against cuts

2010-10-21

A powerful coalition of voices from across society was united last night in a rally outside Downing Street against the cuts.

PCS recruitment guide

2010-10-22

Recruiting new members is essential for our union. Look at the PCS recruitment guide to find out how you can get involved.

Coventry united against the cuts

2010-10-25

Hundreds of people took to the streets of Coventry to protest against the government?s spending cuts

MPs told spending review is single biggest attack on working people

2010-10-27

MPs at the PCS annual parliamentary reception were told the government's comprehensive spending review was the single biggest attack on working people and welfare we have seen

National executive response to comprehensive spending review

2010-10-27

Next steps in the campaign to defend job, pay, pensions and public services, and an update on the civil service compensation scheme.

Our national executive's response to the comprehensive spending review

2010-10-27

We are continuing to build support for our campaign to defend members' jobs, pensions, pay and public services against government cuts.

Government urged to reconsider NDPB plans

2010-10-29

The public bodies bill - the legislation which will enable the abolition of 192 non-departmental public bodies (NDPBs) - has been introduced in parliament, PCS calls on the government to stop and reconsider.

A week of activity

2010-11-01

Nearly fifty branches participated in activity and recruitment as part of young workers week 2010. On 27 September to 03 October, the week highlighted the need for young people in our workplaces and communities to unite around a common programme ? opposition to cuts and a decent future for young people.

For the benefit of all

2010-11-01

The media and many politicians paint a horrendous image of people claiming benefits,that there are two categories - the ?deserving? and ?undeserving? poor in their justification for making ?fair? cuts. One young member provides a glimpse of what life?s like for those on benefits and warns of the consequences these cuts will have on jobs and communities.

A woman's place is in the struggle

2010-11-01

New equality legislation coming into force goes some way to addressing issues around equal treatment in the workplace. At the same time, a recent film in cinemas highlights one of the toughest battles ever faced by Women workers for equal pay. ?Made in Dagenham? focuses on the historic fight by Ford Women machinists in 1968. In light of the imminent cuts, YM organiser Tracy Edwards looks at this important movement and explains why the lessons are still relevant today.

International solidarity - not just a slogan

2010-11-01

YM Lincs convenor Nick Parker joined hundreds of activists from across the British trade union movement in Brussels to march against the European wide cuts agenda on Wednesday 29th September 2010.

We won't be another lost generation

2010-11-01

Since early 2009 Youth Fight for Jobs (YFJ) has been campaigning for decent jobs and free education for all who want it. Paul Callanan YFJ steering committee explains why you should come to its second national conference.

Cutting inequality

2010-11-01

With 600,000 job cuts in the public sector and 46% of the black community working in this area, there?s a valid cause for concern says South London youth officer Fidel McLean.

A political voice

2010-11-01

Annual Delegate Conference (ADC) 2010 passed motion A40 on ?Political Campaigning?, endorsing the branch consultation earlier in the year which agreed the principle of PCS standing or supporting candidates in elections. PCS policy officer Andrew Fisher explains how young members? can get involved in the next stage.

Support the call for one million 'climate jobs'

2010-11-01

The Campaign against Climate Change trade union group, of which PCS is a part, is calling on the government to employ a million unemployed workers to save the climate and help solve the economic crisis. GMB green rep Lyndsey Mouland explains more.

PCS supports the striking firefighters

2010-11-02

PCS is supporting the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) in their dispute in London over the imposition of new contracts. PCS members are urged to show solidarity with FBU members taking action and visit local picket lines this Friday, 5 November.

Compensation scheme update - 3 November

2010-11-03

Members will be aware that PCS are continuing to fight the proposed changes to the civil service compensation scheme (CSCS). We are continuing with our parliamentary work and campaigning and still hope to make further progress with the Cabinet Office.

Organising to stop the cuts

2010-11-15

As part of our response to the comprehensive spending review, branches are urged to gather information on cuts and participate in campaign activities taking place over the coming weeks and months, alongside recruitment and organising work.

Seminar highlights campaign against inequality of cuts

2010-11-16

Campaigning against the inequality of the government's cuts and celebrating black history were a prominent part of the London and South East annual black members' seminar.

Home Office lobby puts case against the cuts

2010-11-16

The campaign to save Home Office jobs and services was taken to parliament at a PCS anti-cuts lobby and rally today.

Updated statement on the civil service compensation scheme

2010-10-08

Union opposes Government's divide and rule tactics

How to lobby your MP briefing - Superannuation bill

2010-07-19

This briefing concentrates on the practical steps you need to take when lobbying your MP in their local constituency office.

Branch briefing 7 July

2010-07-07

Date: 7 July 2010 Ref: BB.66/10

Branch briefing 22 June

2010-06-22

Civil Service Compensation Scheme : High Court result

Branch briefing 26 May

2010-05-26

Government cuts: Our response

Branch briefing 11 May

2010-05-11

Negotiations with Government to reopen: Victory in the courts

PCS wins in the courts

2010-05-10

Court rules against government in CSCS dispute

Campaign timeline

2010-05-10

Our victory in the High Court over changes to the civil service compensation scheme came after months of negotiations and campaigning. Here are some of the key milestones of the campaign.

Is technology taking over our lives?

2010-11-18

The average Briton spends almost half their waking life using media and communications. Statistics from the regulator Ofcom shows people in the UK spend seven hours a day surfing the net, watching TV and using their mobile phones.

Broad-based campaign against cuts in Wales

2010-11-18

Budget cuts of 10% by the Welsh Assembly government over the next three years will put 30,000 Welsh jobs at risk.

Lobby of Scottish parliament to save public sector jobs

2010-11-18

PCS members in Scotland lobbied their MSPs in Edinburgh today to save public sector jobs.

Vote yes to protect our redundancy pay

2010-11-19

We are balloting PCS members on the rejection of the government's proposed cuts in the civil service compensation scheme. The ballot will start on 7 December and end on 14 January.

Attacks on pensions will increase poverty

2010-12-13

The government's attacks on pensions and care for retired people will increase the number of pensioners living in poverty.

Disability History Month - Get involved, show your support

2010-11-22

PCS is supporting the first ever UK Disability History Month (DHM), 22 November to 22 December 2010.

MPs urged to act on charity regulator budget cut

2010-11-23

PCS members have been urging MPs to take action on planned budget cuts that are set to have a devastating impact on the charity regulator for England and Wales.

Equality and Human Rights Commission launches inquiry into home care for older people

2010-11-25

The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has launched an inquiry into the protection and promotion of human rights of older people (over 65) in England who require or receive care and support in their home.

The enquiry is calling for evidence from older people, their relatives and friends, care agencies and public authorities.

Me and my job - Les Madden

2010-11-26

Les Madden's work at the National Air Traffic Service keeps travellers safe in the skies above Scotland

Employment doctor

2010-11-26

Each year PCS reps handle thousands of work problems on behalf of members. Here are just a few of the issues that have cropped up

French lessons

2010-11-26

We look at the lessons that can be learnt from workers in struggle across the Channel

Honouring Holocaust survivors

2010-11-26

Holocaust Memorial Day is an opportunity to honour the survivors and raise awareness says Victoria Neale, PCS Proud rep for Yorkshire and Humberside

What's it like working at the Court Service

2010-11-26

PCS members work in hundreds of different government departments, agencies and private sector companies but we often struggle with the same issues. Each month we ask a different group of members

PCS tells Capita to pay up

2010-11-26

PCS reps leafleted the public outside Capita headquarters this morning to highlight the company's insulting pay offer, high profits and plans to cut jobs.

Redundancy plan 'breaches human rights'

2010-11-29

Government attempts to cap civil service redundancy pay received a setback today when an influential parliamentary committee concluded that the planned change in legislation is inconsistent with human rights law.

Getting the vote out checklist

2010-11-30

Below is a list of ideas that you may wish to use as part of the campaign in your local area or region to maximise the turnout and yes vote in the Compensation scheme and public services ballot.

PCS responds to Hutton pay review

2010-12-01

The Hutton review of 'Fair pay in the public sector' does nothing to address the true causes of pay inequality in the public sector, PCS warned today.

Support the protests and lobby against rising tuition fees

2010-12-03

The National Union of Students (NUS) and University and College Union (UCU) have announced a day of lobbying for Thursday 9 December, the date that MPs are to vote on controversial plans to raise tuition fees.

Challenging the TaxPayers' Alliance

2010-12-13

Clifford Singer runs the Other TaxPayers' Alliance website and is helping to create the False Economy website that will challenge the government's case for cuts. Here he explains the need to challenge the TaxPayers' Alliance's media dominance.

Tax protests hit the high street

2010-12-14

Just days before Christmas, PCS members are being urged join a mass protest to highlight high street tax dodgers on Saturday 18 December.

Political campaign latest

2010-12-16

Consultation, which considered the next steps in the campaign which was originated by ADC motion A40, asked branches how they would support or put up candidates in national elections.

Are new year's resolutions a waste of time?

2010-12-16

As 2010 draws to a close, many of us will be making new years resolutions for 2011.

Delays in receiving ballot papers

2010-12-16

Some members have been experiencing delays in receiving ballot papers due to the adverse weather conditions and consequent postal backlogs.

Political campaigning - Next steps

2010-12-16

The consultation on motion A40 'Political Campaigning' closed on 22 November 2010. The consultation asked branches to consider the process for standing or supporting candidates in national elections.

PCS restates opposition to pension changes

2010-12-20

PCS has restated its opposition to changes to our members' pensions in our submission to the public service pensions commission's final report.

PCS activists join UK Uncut day of action

2010-12-20

PCS activists braved freezing conditions to take part in anti-cuts protests across the country on Saturday

A Christmas call to support striking tube workers

2010-12-20

The TSSA have asked us to put a message out to all PCS members encouraging you to support the increasingly protracted dispute over job losses and safety standards on London Underground.

Council of Civil Service Unions (CSSU) dissolved

2010-12-20

Union seeks new democratic joint union arrangements in the civil service

Prison rep wins top green award

2010-12-21

A system which turns food waste into energy and compost has earned a PCS green rep a TUC award

Vital to make time to vote 'yes' over the holidays

2010-12-22

We wish all PCS members a restful festive break - we all need to recharge our batteries.

Sign up for our campaigns newsletter in 2011

2011-01-03

Keep in touch with all the latest news from PCS in 2011 by receiving our monthly campaigns newsletter.

Ballot deadline is 14 January

2011-01-06

Have your say

Democracy in action

2011-01-06

Read our branch briefing on annual general meetings, guest speakers, elections and motions, get involved, and have your say.

Youth protests in Manchester and London

2011-01-14

Demos over education funding and youth unemployment

Massive support for campaign against cuts

2011-01-14

PCS members have voted by a massive majority to back the union's campaign against cuts to public services, jobs, pay and pensions.

PCS member encourages us to donate and help Australian flood victims

2011-01-17

PCS member Lourens Londt is encouraging PCS members and their friends and families to donate to the Queensland Premier's flood relief fund to help all those who have lost their homes or been displaced by the recent floods in the state of Queensland, Australia.

Call centre walkout over sweat shop conditions

2011-01-17

Workers in seven Jobcentre Plus call centres are to strike on Thursday and Friday of this week (January 20 and 21) over their morale-sapping battery-farm style working conditions.

2011 branch annual general meetings, guest speakers, elections and motions in full

2011-01-06

Branch AGMs are important meetings which allow members the opportunity to receive a report of their branch activities during 2010 and to make plans for 2011.

Top 10 tax shirkers

2011-01-13

Voting has started to find the UK's biggest tax shirker.

Irish eyes aren't smiling

2011-01-17

In an echo of what is happening in the UK, Irish workers are at the forefront of the government's attacks on public sector jobs and service

Cuts could jeopardise travelling public's safety

2011-01-17

We speak to some of the people who kept the country running this winter - and learn how government cuts could jeopardise their work

Me and my job - Paul Kenneally

2011-01-17

Paul Kenneally has been an investigator for 16 years. First he tackled benefit fraud then five years ago he moved to a new job ? tracking down rogue gangmasters who abuse their workers

Employment doctor - February 2011

2011-01-17

Each year PCS reps handle thousands of work problems on behalf of members. Here are just a few of the issues that have cropped up

Students show the way

2011-01-17

The government?s plans to almost treble university tuition fees in England are an attack on universial education, argues unions and campaigners

Barclays and KPMG - are they the top tax shirkers?

2011-01-17

Barclays bank and the accountants KPMG are in the frame to be voted the public's Top Tax Shirker.

George Osborne and HMRC - are they the top tax shirkers?

2011-01-18

HM Revenue and Customs and the chancellor of the exchequer George Osborne are in the frame to be voted the public's top tax shirker.

Belfast public servants back PCS campaign

2011-01-19

The PCS 'There is an alternative' campaign against all spending cuts was warmly received by activists from Northern Ireland's biggest public sector trade union.

SABMiller and Google - are they the top tax shirkers?

2011-01-19

The brewer SABMiller and the internet giant Google are in the frame to be voted the public's top tax shirker.

Massive support for campaign against cuts

2011-01-21

This briefing informs branches of the result of the national ballot on the civil service compensation scheme and on our national campaign, and provides information on NEC decisions relating to forthcoming campaign action.

Northampton unions join to fight the cuts

2011-01-21

Two hundred campaigners packed into the Guildhall in Northampton last night to hear PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka talk about the union's alternative to cuts.

Vodafone and HMV - are they the top tax shirkers?

2011-01-21

Phone giant Vodafone and music retailer HMV are in the frame to be voted the public's Top Tax Shirker.

Next stage of campaign to fight cuts

2011-01-21

The next stages of the campaign have been laid out in a bulletin issued to PCS branches today.

Marching on to Facebook and Twitter

2011-01-24

PCS has produced some artwork plugging the 'March for the alternative' for people to use as their profile picture on Facebook, Twitter and other social networking sites.

Support migrant workers who want to learn English

2011-01-25

PCS is urging members and supporters to sign an online petition in defence of free courses in English for speakers of other languages (ESOL).

Tax justice - the alternative to cuts

2011-01-25

Next week PCS members will be taking the union's campaign for tax justice into parliament and onto the streets of the UK.

Act now to save vital services threatened by the Public Bodies Bill

2011-01-26

On Wednesday (February 9) PCS and five other unions are taking part in a rally and lobby of parliament that will take a message to Lords and Members of Parliament that they need to Stop, Listen and Think Again on the Public Bodies Bill.

Remembering the victims of genocide

2011-01-27

PCS branches across the UK are marking Holocaust Memorial Day today.

Ban the EDL from St George's Square

2011-01-28

PCS is supporting a counter demonstration against the racist and fascist English Defence League (EDL) in Luton on Saturday 5 February.

Tax shirkers to be targeted by demonstrators

2011-01-28

UKuncut, a protest group targeting firms that don't pay all their tax, is planning its biggest mobilisation so far on Sunday (January 30).

How have the cuts affected you? Have your say today

2011-01-31

PCS and UNISON have today launched a joint survey to measure the impact of the government's cuts on members' finances.

George Osborne presented with prize for tax shirking

2011-01-31

A giant jammy dodger has been delivered to the Conservative Party HQ today after chancellor of the exchequer George Osborne was voted top tax shirker in a poll supported by PCS.

How Irish are you?

2011-02-01

The Federation of Irish Societies has launched a campaign to encourage people of Irish descent to celebrate their roots and ancestry by ticking the Irish ethnicity box on the Census form when they receive it next year.

Conference motions

2011-02-01

Submit yours electronically today

Campaign over forest jobs hits the street

2011-02-03

Leading Scottish politicians joined more than 100 Forestry Commission workers at a rally in Edinburgh today against job cuts and privatisation.

Defend the NHS from government attack

2011-02-01

Trade unions and professional associations have joined with the pressure group NHS Support Federation to campaign against health reforms for England proposed by the Conservative-led government.

Guidance for members on social networking sites

2011-02-03

Social networking websites such as Facebook provide useful ways to quickly and easily involve people and gain support for campaigns but should be used sensibly.

Anti-fascists challenge EDL in Bedfordshire

2011-02-04

PCS is urging people to support a counter protest in Luton tomorrow (Saturday 5 February) against the racist and fascist English Defence League.

Lack of resources to protect workers

2011-02-04

Research by PCS has revealed that there are only 39 government inspectors in the whole UK checking on whether workers are being forced to register as self-employed to save their bosses money.

Should we have more bank holidays?

2011-02-04

The TUC has backed a campaign to introduce a new bank holiday in England and Wales.

Coastguards launch a letter-writing blitz

2011-02-04

Nearly 900 people have written to their MPs to support a PCS campaign to stop the closure of coastguard stations with the loss of 200 jobs.

Sshh! Your library needs you

2011-02-04

Saturday 5 February has been declared Save Our Libraries Day as 400 of the vital community hubs face closure across the UK.

Watch our video newsletter

2011-02-05

A new video will be available shortly. In the meantime, see an update on our alternative campaign and how a properly resourced, fair tax system will support quality public services and go a long way to eradicating poverty.

Black activists look to create 'critical mass' against cuts

2011-02-16

A new campaigning coalition is looking to create a critical mass of opposition against the government's attacks on vital services and jobs.

Worldwide trade unions rally for Egypt

2011-02-07

Trade unions are organising a demonstration in London tomorrow (Tuesday 8 February) in support of pro-democracy protestors in Egypt.

Anti-fascists send a resounding message

2011-02-07

PCS members were among thousands of anti-fascists gathered in Luton on Saturday to tell the English Defence League (EDL) that they were not welcome in the town.

Convention debates alternatives to the cuts

2011-02-08

The PCS national campaign 'There is an alternative' will be discussed at a big anti-cuts conference in London on Saturday 12 February.

Commissioners challenged to stand up for equality - lobby tomorrow

2011-02-08

The four men and nine women who run the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) are being challenged by their staff to publicly oppose cuts to the organisation.

Valentines campaign to boost 26 March demo

2011-02-08

PCS activists will be using Valentine's Day to encourage people to show their love of public services by attending the national demonstration against the cuts on Saturday 26 March.

New PCS branch gears up to fight cuts

2011-02-09

A CALL to defend thousands of Ministry of Defence jobs threatened by government cuts was received enthusiastically by more than 200 PCS members when general secretary Mark Serwotka visited Andover.

Taking the alternative to the Ministry of Defence

2011-02-09

Thousand of leaflets advertising the march against government cuts on Saturday 26 March were distributed outside the main building of the Ministry of Defence (MoD) in London this morning.

Turn Trafalgar Square into Tahrir Square

2011-02-09

PCS, Amnesty International, and the Trades Union Congress are among dozens of organisations that have come together to call a demonstration in solidarity with protestors in Egypt on Saturday 12 February.

Actor tells rally crowd 'we are many, they are few'

2011-02-09

A young actor made an impassioned plea for an alternative to cuts at a joint union rally against government plans to scrap scores of public bodies.

Taking the alternative to the streets of the north west

2011-02-10

Trades unionists in the north west of England will be campaigning this weekend in support of public services and to publicise the 'March for the alternative' in London on Saturday 26 March.

Civil Service Compensation Scheme - new advice for reps

2011-02-10

PCS has issued advice for members and reps who are having to deal with the new civil service compensation scheme which was imposed by the government in December.

Airlines and unions oppose air traffic privatisation

2011-02-10

Seven UK airlines have written to the transport minister urging him to halt the sell-off the nation's air traffic control system.

Lib Dem leaders rebel over coastguard cuts

2011-02-11

The president of the Liberal Democrats and two former party leaders have called on the coalition government to step back from plans to close ten coastguard stations.

MPs targeted by campaign over forests

2011-02-11

The popular campaign to save hundreds of jobs in the Forestry Commission, and to stop England's woodlands from being sold to private land owners, goes to parliament next week.

PCS supports LGBT history month

2011-02-11

February is Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender history month.

PCS leader signs up for multi-culturalism

2011-02-14

PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka has put his name to a petition defending and celebrating the UK's diverse society.

Do's and Don'ts for union leafleters

2011-02-14

PCS activists planning to take the union's message onto the streets where they live are urged to read a new guide to public leafleting.

Support sacked Home Office trades unionists

2011-02-14

PCS will be holding a lobby of the Home Office on Tuesday 15 February to protest at the sacking of two senior union activists in the department.

Taking social housing to the heart of Westminster

2011-02-14

Tenants all over Britain are bitterly angry at government attacks on secure tenancies, rents, and housing benefit. Report by Eileen Short, chair, Defend Council Housing

PCS leader calls for end to Afghan occupation

2011-02-15

PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka has put his name to a campaign for the withdrawal of British troops from Afghanistan.

Marathon cycle for the alternative

2011-02-15

A PCS activist is to cycle from northern Scotland to Brighton - calling at government offices on the way - to raise awareness of cuts in services and the campaign for an economic alternative.

Valentine's messages for public services

2011-02-15

Workers and tourists in central London have been telling PCS campaigners why they love public services.

Take urgent e-action to support sacked Home Office union reps

2011-02-16

Trades unionists are being encouraged to protest to their MPs about the sacking of two leading PCS members by the Home Office.

The Alternative newsletter - issue two out now

2011-02-16

The second issue of the PCS campaign newsletter The Alternative will be arriving in workplaces in the next few days and the theme is pensions.

Prime minister quizzed over forest sell-off

2011-02-16

More than 30 MPs turned up this morning for a trade union briefing on the reasons to save 300 jobs in the Forestry Commission and stop publicly-owned woodlands in England from being sold to private landowners.

Firm found guilty of killing worker

2011-02-16

The first successful prosecution under the 2007 corporate manslaughter law has taken place in the west of England.

Irish government gives object lesson of how not to tackle a recession

2011-02-17

The Irish economic disaster stands as an object lesson in how not to tackle a recession, how not to tackle a banking crisis and how not to deal with escalating unemployment, says Macdara Doyle of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions who hopes its new government, due to be elected next week, will understand the needs of working people and the jobless.

Caroline Lucas sets out her anti-cuts agenda

2011-02-16

Opposing the government's reckless cuts and calling for investment in a Green New Deal are key issues for PCS parliamentary group vice chair and Green MP Caroline Lucas. Here she sets out her agenda

Building support for your campaign

2011-02-17

Having set out your campaign objectives, the facts that support your case, and what you want to achieve, you need to tell others about your campaign, and get them to support your aims. Generally speaking, the more people you can get to support your campaign, the more likely you are to make an impact on those whose hearts and minds you want to change.

Warm Scouse welcome for culture vulture

2011-02-17

PCS members and other trades unionists will be protesting about cuts and privatisation when a leading Tory visits Liverpool this evening (Thursday 17 February).

MPs to probe coastguard cuts plans

2011-02-17

The House of Commons transport committee has announced a full inquiry into government plans to close ten coastguard stations with the loss of more than 200 jobs.

Countryside alliance in support of New Forest workers

2011-02-18

Hunters, ramblers and cyclists will be joining forestry workers tomorrow (Saturday 19 February) for a rally against plans to cut and outsource jobs in the New Forest in Hampshire.

One minute to save public services

2011-02-18

Amateur film makers are being challenged to sum up the impact of government spending cuts in a sixty second advert.

Support people who are fleeing from warzones

2011-02-18

PCS is backing a campaign to stop massive government cuts to charities and agencies that help refugees.

Tax protests inspire national action

2011-02-20

Thousands of people have been taking to the streets protesting against the cuts and demanding multinationals and the rich pay the tax they owe.

Adam Ramsay, co-editor of brightgreenscotland.org who runs the campaign noshockdoctrine.org.uk, joined the demonstrations, most notably against the government, Vodafone and Topshop which punctured a hole in the economically illiterate idea that the government has to cut public spending.

Disabled access for 26 March anti-cuts demo

2011-02-21

The 'March for the alternative' in London on Saturday 26 March is shaping up to be a massive event with coaches and trains booked from all over the UK.

Anglesey says no to coastguard closure

2011-02-21

Three hundred people turned out in the small north Wales town of Holyhead on Saturday to demand that the government do a u-turn over plans to shut their coastguard station.

Me and my job - Dave Macbeth

2011-02-21

For 15 years Dave Macbeth has been a coastguard in Stornoway, a challenging location off the west coast of Scotland. The former Royal Navy petty officer is now facing another battle ? job cuts and closures

A step back in time...?

2011-02-21

Public sector workers are waiting to hear when the axe will fall. The government has already announced cuts of up to 40%, and women will bear the brunt

Suffer the little children

2011-02-21

A radical reform of child maintenance is being proposed, but for nearly 8,000 staff in the much maligned Child Support Agency, there are fears that it will lead to wide-scale job cuts and office closures

Women ? 100 years of change

2011-02-21

How the world has changed, and for women it had to. No vote, poor pay and for most, precious little help. A lot has improved for women ? and unions have been the driving force of change

Employment doctor - March 2011

2011-02-21

Our reps handle thousands of work problems each year on behalf of PCS members ? an increasing number of which are about the etiquette of using social networking sites

Watch the video - join the march

2011-02-22

A PCS video is being used to encourage tax justice protestors to join the union-organised 'March for the alternative' in London on Saturday 26 March.

Round-up of anti-cuts events - 24 February

2011-02-23

Welcome to a new feature on the PCS website rounding up anti-cuts activity across the UK.

Miliband backs Brixham coastguards

2011-02-23

Labour leader Ed Miliband has sent a message of support to Devon coastguards fighting to save their station from closure.

Turn out for the coastguards

2011-02-23

Please attend local meetings

PCS objections to the Hutton pension review

2011-03-11

If Lord Hutton's report on public sector pensions - published yesterday (Thursday 10 March) - is implemented it will mean PCS members having much higher contributions deducted from their wages.

Keep arguing - we are winning

2011-03-09

Opinion polls about UK government economic policy show that unions and other campaigners are winning the argument that there is an alternative to cuts and despair.

Watch our second video newsletter

2011-03-08

Watch the new video newsletter on our campaign for an alternative to the cuts and the fight to protect public services.

Vote 'yes' for electoral reform

2011-02-24

THE PCS national executive is urging union members to support a switch to the alternative vote (AV) system for electing the UK parliament.

Round-up of anti-cuts events - 26 and 27 February

2011-02-24

PCS national executive member Zita Holbourne is one of the speakers on Sunday 27 February at a roundtable discussion about the impact of cuts on communities in Haringey, north London - and how to stop them.

Sign-up to save the national health service

2011-02-24

Campaigners are hoping a massive petition will stop the government introducing reforms to the NHS which have been condemned by doctors and other health workers.

Round-up of anti-cuts events - 28 February

2011-02-25

PCS reps in the north of England are being encouraged to attend a seminar about keeping workplaces safe after the cuts.

Vote 'yes' for Wales and the union

2011-02-28

PCS members in Wales are being urged to vote 'yes' in Thursday's referendum on more power for the Welsh assembly as part of the union's campaign against cuts.

Scrutiny of cops' plans for 26 March demo

2011-02-28

London police chiefs will be quizzed by MPs and Lords tomorrow over their tactics for the trade union 'March for the alternative' in the city on Saturday 26 March.

Freedom to protest

2011-03-01

What rights do demonstrators have in the eyes of the law?

Round-up of anti-cuts events - 5, 6, 7 March

2011-03-04

PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka will speak at a rally against cuts in Cardiff on Saturday 5 March.

PCS leader fights cuts in Wales

2011-03-04

PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka will speak at a rally against cuts in Cardiff tomorrow (Saturday 5 March).

Big 'yes' win in Welsh referendum

2011-03-04

People in Wales have voted in favour of giving more power to the national assembly by 517,132 votes to 297,380.

Urgent action needed over Robin Hood tax

2011-03-07

Euro politicians will vote tomorrow - Tuesday 8 March - on the idea of introducing a small tax on financial transactions.

Round-up of anti-cuts events - 9, 10 March

2011-03-08

PCS is supporting the next meeting of the Durham public services alliance (PSA) which takes place on Wednesday 9 March, at 5.30pm in County Hall, Durham, DH1 5UL.

MEPs condemn tax havens, support taxing banks

2011-03-08

Euro MPs today voted to support a Robin Hood Tax on financial transactions - and to oppose tax havens.

Marching to save the National Health Service

2011-03-09

Patients, health workers, and supporters of the NHS will march through London later today (Wednesday 9 March) to protest at job cuts and the reorganisation of medical services in England.

Hutton review queries answered

2011-03-10

PCS members can email queries about the Hutton review of public service pensions to a new address set up for the purpose.

Unions together against pensions robbery

2011-03-10

Hundreds of thousands of workers are facing a big hike in pensions contributions which will go straight into the coffers of the treasury to pay off the debts caused by greedy bankers.

Teacher calls for unity over pensions

2011-03-10

Guest article by SARAH WARDEN, teacher and NUT union member from Bury, Greater Manchester

Act now to save 150 passport jobs

2011-03-10

Workers in the Identity and Passport Service (IPS) say planned cuts will lead to increased fraud and leave the UK vulnerable to terrorist attack - and a consultation exercise on the changes ends on Saturday 12 March.

Stand up to pensions robbery or regret it for years

2011-03-10

Union members should stand up to the government over pensions or "regret it for years to come", PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka has said.

Child Support Agency campaign reaches parliament

2011-03-10

PCS and concerned charities briefed MPs on plans by the government to make the Child Support Agency (CSA) charge poor single parents to use their services.

Round-up of anti-cuts events - 11,12, 13, 14 March

2011-03-11

Conservative MP Charlotte Leslie is debating the need for cuts with trades unionists and campaigners in her Bristol North constituency this evening.

Everyone take ten leaflets for 26 March

2011-03-14

PCS is urging everyone who supports the 'March for the alternative' in London on Saturday 26 March to take 10 leaflets home and hand them out to friends and family.

Wages lag well behind prices

2011-03-16

Figures published today show that wages in the UK increased by an average of 2.2% in the year to the end of January 2011 - a lot lower than the increase in prices.

PCS briefing: pensions and the change from RPI to CPI

2011-03-14

The government wants to change the way pensions are calculated by using a different measure of inflation to work-out annual upgrades.

Round-up of anti-cuts events - 15 March

2011-03-14

The next meeting of the PCS-backed Newcastle Public Services Alliance will take place at Unison northern region office, Pilgrim Street, NE1 6TH, at 5.30pm on Tuesday 15 March.

Hutton pensions review q and a

2011-03-14

Since Lord Hutton's review of public service pensions was published last week PCS members have been sending queries to huttonq@pcs.org.uk .

Coastal protestors flood Westminster

2011-03-15

Coastguards will descend on Westminster tomorrow (Wednesday 16 March) to tell MPs that plans to close ten stations and cut 220 jobs will put lives at risk on the sea.

Round-up of anti-cuts events - 18, 19, 21, 22 March

2011-03-18

Live bands, stand-up comedians and economists are joining together for a show in London tonight (Friday 18 March).

Coalition rebels boost coastguard campaign

2011-03-18

More than 100 MPs have now supported a parliamentary motion opposing the proposed closure of coastguard stations.

Preserving memories of 26 March

2011-03-18

Art students plan to collect placards, leaflets and other memorabilia from next week's 'March for the alternative' so it can be preserved at the Museum of London.

Let's Blunt Osborne's axe

2011-03-18

PCS members, other trades unionists and tax justice campaigners will be protesting outside parliament next Wednesday lunchtime (23 March) just before chancellor George Osborne unveils his budget.

Recruitment is key to success

2011-03-17

Elected unopposed at the young members? forum on 5 February 2011, Helen Flanagan outlines her priorities as chair of the national young members? committee (NYMC) for the year ahead.

Discussing the way forward

2011-03-17

The annual young members? forum met for the fifth time over the weekend 4-6 February. Around 80 delegates were nominated by their branch or region and discussed key issues facing young members? and participated in workshops covering a range of topics.

Workers united, never defeated

2011-03-17

The far right organisation the English Defence League (EDL) has been in the headlines again. Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) group young members? officer Joy Lewis explains why fighting fascism and defending jobs and services have got to be linked.

If you know your history - the great unrest

2011-03-17

Not widely known and often hidden from history books, a series of industrial action and protests sent shockwaves across the British establishment in the early part of the twentieth century. Referred to as ?the great unrest?, 70 million working days were lost due to official and unofficial strike action across various industries in 1911-1914. The young members' newsletter looks at these fascinating events and their importance today.

No return to the 1930's

2011-03-17

Recent figures have shown that the issue of unemployment still exists especially amongst youths. At present there are 965,000 16-24 year olds who are unemployed. Youth Fight for Jobs (YFJ) will bring this issue right to the fore by holding a march from Jarrow to London, starting on 1 October 2011 and ending on 5 November 2011.

A future that works

2011-03-17

On 29 January 2011, over 12,000 young people marched in London and Manchester to demand a future that works. Both demonstrations were supported by PCS.

Leafleting this week for Saturday's demo

2011-03-21

PCS members and staff and other trades unionists will be leafleting stations and other busy locations in London this week as part of the build up to Saturday's 'March for the alternative'.

Unions challenge imposed new contract in court

2011-03-21

PCS and the Prison Officers Association have launched legal action against the newly imposed civil service redundancy scheme, known as the civil service compensation scheme (CSCS).

March tip - five days to go

2011-03-21

There are just five days to go until the 'March for the alternative' - the biggest trade union organised demonstration for a generation.

Peaceful protests - legal briefing

2011-03-23

Briefing by Thompsons solicitors - March 2011

March tip - four days to go

2011-03-22

There are just four days to go until the 'March for the alternative' - the biggest trade union organised demonstration for a generation.

Projecting the anti-cuts message

2011-03-22

PCS is flashing anti-cuts messages onto the side of buildings.

Keep up to date on #26march

2011-03-22

PCS will be using Twitter on the March for the Alternative this Saturday to keep marchers and media up to date with our activities and statements.

March tip - three days to go

2011-03-23

There are just three days to go until the 'March for the alternative' - the biggest trade union organised demonstration for a generation.

Budget day protesters pledge to stop cuts

2011-03-24

Protestors outside parliament shouted their support as PCS leader Mark Serwotka told them it would take determined action to force the government to stop public sector cuts.

March tip - two days to go

2011-03-24

There are just two days to go until the 'March for the alternative' - the biggest trade union organised demonstration for a generation.

Get out and protest, says activist Mark Thomas

2011-03-25

Veteran activist and comedian Mark Thomas has stressed the need to protest ahead of the TUC March for the Alternative tomorrow.

March tips - one day to go

2011-03-25

There is just one day to go to the 'March for the alternative' - the biggest trade union organised demonstration for a generation.

Labour leader joins those who salute 'walk to march' hero

2011-03-25

Labour leader Ed Miliband has saluted a PCS rep who is on the home stretch of a gruelling 166-mile walk to join the March for the Alternative in London tomorrow.

PCS on flickr

2011-03-28

You can now view the latest PCS images on the popular photo sharing site flickr.

26 March - Thank you

2011-03-28

A message to all PCS members from PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka and president Janice Godrich, following the hugely successful march for the alternative on Saturday 26 March.

PCS praised for showing strength in numbers

2011-03-28

Paul Mason, BBC Newsnight's economics editor has praised PCS for its huge organised showing at the Saturday 26 March - march for the alternative.

Half a million march for the alternative

2011-03-29

Speaking to the Commons on Monday, home secretary Theresa May confirmed that up to 500,000 people attended the march for the alternative on Saturday 26 March.

All together for the NHS

2011-03-30

Get involved and support the campaign this Friday 1 April

March for the alternative - Videos from the day

2011-03-30

Videos from Saturday's hugely successful march against cuts are now available online.

Mother's defence of the NHS

2011-04-01

Today is All Together for the NHS Day.

Protesting in defence of justice

2011-04-01

PCS members held a demonstration today to protest against cuts across the justice sector

We are one - Solidarity with US unions

2011-04-04

UK unions stand together alongside US counterparts.

Bristol meeting backs call for joint action

2011-04-04

A packed hall in Bristol heard PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka call for co-ordinated strike action across unions to fight cuts and attacks on working conditions.

Oi Clarke! No!

2011-04-04

A new website gives opponents of cuts to legal aid the chance to leave a voicemail for justice secretary Ken Clarke.

Politicians debate north east forest jobs

2011-04-05

A senior government-supporting MP has intervened to ensure his colleagues will debate Forestry Commission job cuts in Northumberland for the last half hour of parliamentary business today (Tuesday 5 April).

PCS Liverpool and other 6 April events

2011-04-05

The PCS Merseyside area committee meets to plan the next stage of the local anti-cuts campaign on Wednesday 6 April.

Families hit by tax credit cuts

2011-04-06

The Trades Union Congress (TUC) and the parenting website Mumsnet have launched an online tax credit calculator so families can work out how they will be affected by cuts.

Survey reveals reality of life under the cuts

2011-04-06

A survey commissioned by PCS and Unison reveals the impact of the cuts.

Fight pensions robbery

2011-04-06

Civil servants face being forced to pay more and work longer for less in retirement as the government looks to adopt the Hutton review in public sector pensions.

Nick makes it a hat-trick for PCS

2011-04-06

For the third year running PCS won the award for youth at the Trades Union Congress young members' conference.

Exposing the myths about welfare

2011-04-06

Right-wing politicians and commentators make regular pronouncements about welfare. We look at its importance and bust some of the myths

Unions leading the revolution

2011-04-06

Trade unionists in Egypt and Tunisia have been at the forefront of protests and action which led to the downfall of totalitarian regimes in both countries

Hidden disability

2011-04-06

Benefit cuts will cause a huge amount of suffering to people with ?hidden disabilities? and their families. People with conditions like autism, epilepsy, cancer and heart disease will have crucial decisions about their income taken by independent assessors who are not specialists.

Communities come together

2011-04-06

Once again we throw the spotlight on local campaigns against the government?s spending cuts

Marching together for the alternative

2011-04-06

A new video about a PCS-organised party attending the March for the Alternative shows how the demonstration united different people from different groups across the UK against the cuts.

Round-up of anti-cuts events - 7 April

2011-04-06

Campaigners who are promoting alternatives to public spending cuts in the north east of England hold their next meeting on Thursday 7 April.

Unions protest at Olympic site

2011-04-07

Campaigners from a range of trade unions including PCS picketed the Olympics site in East London today in protest at the sacking of a union member who had exposed illegal blocking of union members getting work on the site.

Round-up of anti-cuts events - 9 and 11 April

2011-04-08

Activists are holding a day school to share ideas about how to fight the cuts.

Sign the petition for a Robin Hood Tax for Europe

2011-04-11

Respond to the European Commission's consultation and make the financial sector pay its share.

Anti cuts event in Ealing - 12 April

2011-04-11

Activists in Ealing will be demonstrating against cuts to the local health service and libraries.

PCS supports construction workers

2011-04-13

Construction workers who were thrown out of their jobs when the company they were working for lost a contract at a BP site are protesting in London tomorrow (Thursday 14 April).

Running the London Marathon for the alternative

2011-04-15

The union's alternative message will be on view to runners and spectators at Sunday's London Marathon, thanks to a PCS rep.

PCS at Civil Service Live

2011-04-15

PCS campaign for the alternative at the UK's biggest civil servants convention.

Conference motions

2011-04-18

Emergency motions and references back for 2011 national and group conferences - Submit yours electronically today

Send support to Jobcentre strikers

2011-04-18

Thousands of Jobcentre Plus call centre workers are on strike today (Monday 18 April) in protest at draconian working conditions that make people sick and stop them from giving the public a proper service.

On the picket line in Halifax

2011-04-18

History was made today with a first ever picket line at Halifax Jobcentre Plus call centre.

Watch our third video newsletter

2011-04-18

Watch the new video newsletter on our campaign for an alternative to the cuts and the fight to protect public sector pensions.

Moderate teachers' union backs strike motion

2011-04-19

The Association of Teachers and Lecturers (ATL) - generally considered to be the most moderate of the education unions - has agreed to consider national strike action over cuts to public sector pensions.

PCS executive strike action motion

2011-04-19

PCS and other public sector trade unions are working together to defend jobs, pensions and pay.

ATL to ballot in May over pensions

2011-04-19

Leaders of the Association of Teachers and Lecturers (ATL) - generally considered to be the most moderate of the education unions - have agreed to ballot members for a national strike over attacks on their pension scheme.

Strike threat wins deal on job cuts

2011-04-21

Workers at the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) won a guarantee of no compulsory redundancies after threatening strike action.

Hands off pension workers' contracts

2011-04-21

Civil servants who administer government pensions face being shunted into the private sector - as part of a new business dressed up as a mutual.

NUT to ballot over pensions

2011-04-26

The National Union of Teachers is to ballot its 300,000 members for strike action over attacks on public sector pensions.

Support royal cleaners on Facebook and Twitter

2011-04-27

PCS has produced some artwork supporting low paid palace cleaners for people to use as their profile picture on Facebook, Twitter and other social networking sites over royal wedding weekend.

Remember the thousands who die at work

2011-04-27

People who have died at work will be remembered tomorrow (Thursday 28 April).

Cuts make economy stagnate

2011-04-28

The latest figures show that the UK economy grew by 0.5% in the first three months of 2011.

Update your records now

2011-04-28

To ensure your details are correct and you can easily receive the latest information from your branch, including national ballot information, it is vital you update your membership records.

Ruling Lib Dems snub Yorkshire hustings

2011-04-28

No one from Sheffield's Liberal Democrats was available to attend a PCS-backed 'Make your vote count' hustings event in the city.

Two strikes and they're out

2011-04-28

PCS is urging all members and fellow trades unionists to support two strikes against job cuts in the public sector which take place next week.

Wage rate rises as cleaners' campaign hits the palace

2011-05-03

The London living wage is rising to �8.30 an hour - from its present level of �7.85.

Taking to the streets of Brum

2011-05-03

Hundreds of trades unionists and anti-cuts campaigners marched through Birmingham city centre to celebrate May Day as international workers' day.

Heads' union backs pensions ballot

2011-05-03

The National Association of Head Teachers is the fourth education union to join with PCS to move towards a ballot for strike action over attacks on public sector pensions.

Vote yes for AV

2011-05-04

THE PCS national executive is urging union members to vote 'yes' tomorrow (Thursday 5 May) to change the electoral system for the UK parliament.

Regional reps briefings

2011-05-04

See when local briefings are taking place in your area.

Support for strike by equality champions

2011-05-04

Scores of people demonstrated outside the Equality and Human Rights Commission office in Birmingham this morning - one of five PCS protests around the country.

Protest at cuts to disabled benefits

2011-05-05

Thousands of disabled people, with their friends and supporters, will march through London on Wednesday 11 May to protest at government policy which is threatening their livelihoods and rights.

United in opposition

2011-05-05

Eight million public sector workers, including PCS members, were united at a stroke by the government's pay freeze and attacks on our pensions and civil service compensation scheme.

We must build on the success of the march and turn this growing united opposition into action that will save our jobs, pensions and services and defend our communities.

Hundreds of jobs threatened by ?work? programme

2011-05-05

Hundreds of jobs are threatened as a result of Welfare to Work contracts not transferring to the new Work Programme.

Strike ballot for jobs, pensions and pay

2011-05-05

More than a quarter of a million PCS members are likely to be balloted for a strike over cuts to jobs, pensions and pay.

Make MPs work harder, vote AV

2011-05-05

The PCS annual conference passed a resolution in 2008 rejecting the current first-past-the-post method for choosing MPs and called for a more proportional system ?making all votes really count?. Our national executive is urging union members to support a switch to the alternative vote (AV) system for electing the UK parliament.

NEC elections

2011-05-05

NEC election results to be announced on Friday 6 May.

Strike deadline extended for talks

2011-05-05

PCS negotiators have agreed to extend talks on a new sickness absence policy in Revenue and Customs for a possible further 28 days.

Armed to defend the welfare state

2011-05-09

PCS is launching a pamphlet on the need to defend and strengthen the welfare state.

Support strike for jobs and equality

2011-05-10

PCS is calling on all trades unionists and campaigners for equality to support a group of union members taking strike action tomorrow (Wednesday 11 May).

Coverage of big disability march

2011-05-11

A PCS delegation has joined thousands of disabled people, with their friends and supporters, demonstrating in London today (Wednesday 11 May) against government policy which is threatening their livelihoods and rights.

Royal cleaners threatened with 'efficiencies'

2011-05-11

One of the companies that supplies cleaners to royal palaces says it is looking for 'efficiencies' as a way of increasing staff wages.

Supporters out in force on equality picket lines

2011-05-11

Determined PCS strikers were today joined by supporters from the wider community at picket lines outside Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) offices across the UK.

Organising for strike action

2011-05-12

We all know that strike action is used to back up and strengthen our negotiations with management and to show the strength of feeling among staff to push management into acting on our concerns. In light of the current political climate and increasing attacks on PCS members it is vital that we equip ourselves and know our rights to strike and educate members on the benefits of strike action. When workers go on strike they show they have the power to stand up collectively and fight back. The best way to ensure that management get our message loud and clear is to make sure that when we do strike, it is very well supported and effective. You can do this by following these tips:

Lobbying on websites

2011-05-12

Lobbying on websites is a great way of publicising your campaign. Here we look at six of the most popular sites and how you can use them to get your message seen by thousands of people

Conference set to kick off strike vote

2011-05-13

Delegates gathering for PCS's 2011 annual conference will be looking to steer the union through a period of unprecedented attacks on members? jobs, pensions, pay and general working conditions.

Andover welcomes PCS hero

2011-05-13

Trades unionists in Hampshire will turn out this afternoon (Friday 13 May) to welcome PCS hero Mark Chapman as he cycles through Andover spreading the news that there is an alternative to government cuts.

Act now to protect equality regulations

2011-05-13

Regulations designed to ensure equality are under attack from the government.

Countering the defence leagues

2011-05-12

As summer approaches, so does the likelihood that the English, Scottish and Welsh Defence Leagues will seek to protest across the UK. They are intent on a campaign of intimidation and violence as they spread their message of Islamophobia and hate. Whether you want to set up a counter-demonstration, co-ordinate a meeting of solidarity with local communities or seek a ban, PCS has put together a campaign pack that should help.

Wapping remembered in exhibition

2011-05-12

The power of Rupert Murdoch is ever increasing but he took major steps in securing his empire in the UK during the Wapping dispute in 1986. Tim Gopsill of the National Union of Journalists and the Campaign for Press and Broadcasting Freedom looks at its legacy 25 years on

Defending the vulnerable vital says DWP group conference

2011-05-17

Defending jobs, vital services and the vulnerable from government attacks was the common theme running through a debate on welfare during the afternoon session of the PCS Department for Work and Pensions group conference.

Problems accessing the PCS website

2011-05-16

As of Wednesday 11 May 2011 the PCS website has been experiencing ongoing severe technical problems that have affected some visitors access to the website.

Shadow minister condemns ideologically-driven cuts

2011-05-17

The government's ideologically-driven cuts are undermining the public?s trust in services, according to shadow prisons minister Helen Goodman.

Victimised Home Office duo applauded at conference

2011-05-18

Victimised Home Office reps Mark Hammond and Sue Kendal received rapturous applause when they addressed their group conference on Tuesday morning.

Vote 'yes' for the alternative

2011-05-18

Delegates to PCS's annual conference have decided it's time to take a stand against the unprecedented attacks on workers by the Conservative-led government.

Read the strike ballot motion passed by PCS conference

2011-05-18

Delegates to PCS's annual conference have decided it?s time to take a stand against the unprecedented attacks on workers by the Conservative-led government. This is the resolution they passed.

VIDEO: conference votes for national strike ballot

2011-05-18

The ballot runs until 15 June.

Recognition for PCS volunteers

2011-05-19

Two PCS reps will be honoured at the first awards ceremony to be organised for outstanding union activists in the south west of England.

Royal cleaners suffer hours and pay cut

2011-05-19

One of the private companies that supplies cleaners to royal palaces has cut the hours of some of the workers - despite a campaign supported by thousands of people to improve their pay.

PCS and Unite - together for the alternative

2011-05-20

Len McCluskey - leader of the 1.5 million member Unite trade union - was given a standing ovation after speaking to the PCS annual conference this morning.

Tell us what you want

2011-05-24

PCS is conducting a major survey to discover how members find out news - both from the union and the wider world.

Voting papers on their way

2011-05-24

Ballot papers are being posted to more than a quarter of a million PCS members who are being urged to vote in favour of a national strike against cuts to pensions, jobs and pay.

Support high street protests on Saturday

2011-05-25

PCS members are being urged to demonstrate outside banks this weekend with supporters of the tax justice pressure group UK Uncut.

Let the coastguards speak

2011-05-26

A poll in a national newspaper shows that members of the public think coastguards fighting the closure of their stations should be allowed to give evidence to MPs investigating the plan.

Vote yes for the alternative - video

2011-05-26

The ballot for a national strike over cuts to jobs, pensions and pay is now open and runs until Wednesday 15 June.

PCS votes to hold a national strike ballot

2011-05-27

The "most important conference this union has ever had" voted yes to the motion which called for a national strike ballot in defence of pensions. Conference urged all members and activists to prioritise mobilising for a ?yes, yes? vote.

All together for the NHS

2011-05-27

Thousands of people united in support for ?All together for the NHS day? on 1 April to oppose the government?s controversial plans to decimate the NHS. We look at how unions and campaign groups are fighting proposals to dismantle the health service

Activate your money

2011-05-27

PCS has joined forces with responsible investment charity FairPensions to launch the JustPay! Campaign which calls on some of the UK?s biggest employers to pay their staff and contractors a living wage.

An activity a day to build for a yes vote in our ballot

2011-06-07

It is vitally important PCS reps help build towards a strong yes vote throughout the balloting period.

Video of John McDonnell's conference speech

2011-05-27

"This week you made the most momentous decision in the history of this union. On 30 June there will be the greatest show of solidarity in a generation, and we're up for it," the Labour politician told conference delegates

Japanese unions fight nuclear leaks

2011-05-27

Trade unionists and socialists in Japan used the May Day celebrations to call for the country to stop using nuclear power

Focus on you - The Family Proceedings Court

2011-05-27

At the Ministry of Justice members are facing up to uncertainties as regional and area offices begin to close. This month we ask members in the Family Proceedings Court where child protection cases are heard

Employment Doctor - June

2011-05-27

Each year PCS reps handle thousands of work problems on behalf of members. Here are just a few of the issues that have cropped up

Read the latest Metwide

2011-05-25

The latest edition of Metwide, for PCS members in the Met Police group, includes reports on the March for the alternative, updates on the voluntary departure scheme and some good news for traffic wardens

Good news for traffic wardens

2011-05-25

Latest news from PCS Metropolitan Police group

Revenue workers strike over sick scheme

2011-06-01

More than 50,000 tax office workers will be taking strike action this week in protest at a punitive new sickness absence policy.

It's official - they are giving us nothing

2011-06-02

Public sector pay rose by 0% in the first three months of 2011 - the first time there has been no rise at all since records began in the 1960s.

Pensions calculator: What the changes mean for you

2011-10-20

Following the recent government announcement on public sector pension changes, we have amended the pension calculators to reflect these changes.

What's it like working at ?

2011-08-04

Steria in the Identity and Passport Service. PCS members who process passport applications were shunted into the private sector more than 10 years ago. Now they have been transferred between owners and are fighting for fair pay

Calculate your Nuvos Pension

2011-06-09

Use the pensions calculator

Liverpool protest over job losses

2011-06-09

PCS members and Liverpool MP Louise Ellman protested this morning against the sacking of 14 workers at the city's passport office.

Nationwide events to build for action

2011-06-10

Across the UK trades unionists are co-ordinating plans for a strike at the end of this month.

Calculate your Classic Pension

2011-06-08

Use the pensions calculator

Calculate your Nuvos pension

2011-06-08

Use the pensions calculator

Calculate your Premium pension

2011-06-08

Use your pensions calculator

A few days to save the equality commission

2011-06-10

Opinions about a plan to slash jobs and services provided by the Equality and Human Rights Commission must be submitted to the government by Wednesday 15 June.

Don't miss your chance to vote

2011-06-13

Votes in the PCS ballot on industrial action over jobs, pensions and pay should be posted today to reach the independent scrutineers in London by the deadline of lunchtime on Wednesday (15 June).

Inflation shows it's time to end the pay freeze

2011-06-14

PCS has called for an immediate end to the public sector pay freeze as UK inflation is still running at around 5%.

Teachers vote for strike over pensions

2011-06-14

PCS is sending solidarity to teachers who have voted in favour of strike action to protest at changes to their pension scheme.

Vote to strike over pensions, pay and job cuts

2011-06-15

PCS members have voted by a clear majority in favour of strike action and action short of strike, in the dispute over pensions, pay and job cuts.

Strike events on 30 June

2011-06-15

Rallies, marches and picnics are being organised across the country for 30 June in support of the strike by members of PCS and three education unions over cuts to public sector pensions.

National strike tips - eight days to go

2011-06-22

The PCS website will have a daily tip as union members and reps prepare for strike action on Thursday 30 June in defence of jobs, pensions and pay.

More trades unionists join 30 June strike

2011-06-22

Extra groups of workers have voted to join in the strike action called on Thursday 30 June by PCS and three education unions.

MPs briefed on the alternative

2011-06-24

This week MPs from different political parties were lobbied about the PCS campaign to defend jobs pay and pensions.

Prison officers' and journalists' unions support 30 June

2011-06-16

Prison officers are to hold lunchtime protests outside jails on Thursday 30 June in solidarity with members of PCS and three education unions who will be on strike.

Minister proves pension talks weren't genuine

2011-06-17

A speech today by a government minister will prove that PCS members were right to vote for strike action over pension cuts.

Picket line playlist for 30 June

2011-06-20

On Thursday 30 June hundreds of thousands of workers will take control of their own working day for a change - so it's important to have some fun while making serious points about pensions, jobs and pay.

National strike tip - 10 days to go

2011-06-20

The PCS website will have a daily tip as union members and reps prepare for strike action on Thursday 30 June in defence of jobs, pensions and pay.

Watch our new video: All out - 30 June

2011-06-21

On Thursday 30 June hundreds of thousands of workers will strike in protest at the governments plans to cut public sector jobs, pay and pensions and the devastating effect these cuts will have on public services.

National strike tips - nine days to go

2011-06-21

The PCS website will have a daily tip as union members and reps prepare for strike action on Thursday 30 June in defence of jobs, pensions and pay.

National strike tips - seven days to go

2011-06-23

The PCS website will have a daily tip as union members and reps prepare for strike action on Thursday 30 June in defence of jobs, pensions and pay.

National strike tips - six days to go

2011-06-24

The PCS website will have a daily tip as union members and reps prepare for strike action on Thursday 30 June in defence of jobs, pensions and pay.

Pensions briefing for PCS members

2011-06-24

Work longer, pay more, get less.

Managers join union over pensions

2011-06-24

Civil service managers have been flocking to join PCS after calculating their possible pension losses under the government's proposals.

Government refuses to move on pensions cuts

2011-06-28

At the latest meeting over the government's plans to force civil and public servants to work longer and pay more for less pension, ministers refused to make any attempt to settle the dispute.

National strike tips - three days to go

2011-06-27

The PCS website will have a daily tip as union members and reps prepare for strike action on Thursday 30 June in defence of jobs, pensions and pay.

Nearly 200,000 people use pensions calculator to discover massive losses

2011-06-27

Thousands of people have been left shocked, angry and determined to fight back against the government's cuts after discovering how much money they could lose through the coalition's pensions proposals.

Let us know your strike stories

2011-06-27

It is vital we get a clear picture of what is happening across all workplaces when we take national strike action on 30 June 2011, and to do so, we want to know what's happening at your picket line.

Going, going, gone...

2011-08-04

Civil servants? jobs could be lost in the future thanks to the government?s controversial ?offshoring? policy

Unite leader offers PCS members support

2011-06-28

Len McCluskey general secretary of the UK's biggest union Unite spoke to us about plans for his union to work more closely with PCS, including support for members striking to defend their pensions.

Mobile calculator wins new members

2011-06-28

PCS representatives and officials in the Ministry of Justice took the pensions calculator on the road and used it to recruit new members to the union.

National strike tips - two days to go

2011-06-28

The PCS website will have a daily tip as union members and reps prepare for strike action on Thursday 30 June in defence of jobs, pensions and pay.

Mark Serwotka on Channel 4 news

2011-06-29

PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka was interviewed live on Chennel 4 News last night(28 June).

Make your picket a success

2011-06-29

Across the UK PCS members are preparing to mount picket lines outside government premises for tomorrow's national strike to defend pensions, jobs, and pay.

National strike leaders will speak in London

2011-06-29

The leaders of four unions holding national walkouts tomorrow (Thursday 30 June) will all speak at a strike day rally in London.

Striking tube drivers and journalists win

2011-06-29

Underground train drivers and journalists in London have won the reinstatement of a union activist and saved axe-threatened jobs after a series of strikes.

30 June is our most important strike

2011-06-29

PCS leader Mark Serwotka has called on government workers who have never taken strike action before to join tomorrow's action to defend jobs, pensions and pay.

Live strike coverage on PCS website

2011-06-29

You will be able to follow the 30 June national strike on a live blog on the PCS website.

Tell Dave you support PCS

2011-06-29

PCS is urging people to write to prime minister David Cameron in support of the union's campaign to defend jobs, pensions and pay.

Messages of support 30 June 2011

2011-06-30

PCS members are on strike across the UK to defend jobs, pensions and pay.

Why we strike - The impact of cuts on women - Video

2011-07-01

A new video on the 30 June strike and the impact of the cuts on women in the public sector is now available on the Guardian website.

30 June - Thank you and next steps

2011-07-01

Feedback from reps suggests that 84% of PCS members took part in the co-ordinated strike action on 30 June.

Not a minute on the day

2011-07-01

Hundreds of thousands of government workers are set to start an overtime ban today as part of the PCS campaign to defend jobs, pensions and pay.

Serwotka vs Maude...and other news

2011-07-01

Media coverage of our strike and the run-up to it has been unprecedented, with international, national, regional and local newspapers and broadcasters devoting acres of print and hours of airtime to the issues.

Support the campaign to stop offshoring jobs

2011-07-13

Plans to offshore jobs will have a devastating effect on employees and local communities.

Watch Mark Serwotka speaking on 30 June - Video

2011-07-05

Watch our video of PCS General Secretary Mark Serwotka speaking at Methodist Central Hall, London 30 June 2011.

Put safety before profits

2011-07-06

PCS is responding strongly to reviews of health and safety legislation and telling the government that workers must not be allowed to die to boost business profits.

Cuts are destroying the justice system

2011-07-06

A report published today by PCS and three other workers' associations reveals that the criminal justice system is in meltdown.

Justice crisis highlighted in parliament

2011-07-06

Around 100 people packed into a room in the Houses of Parliament today (Wednesday 6 July) to hear four trade unions explain that the justice system is in crisis.

Looking back at day of solidarity

2011-07-06

PCS has produced a colour leaflet which will be sent to every workplace looking back at the national strike on 30 June in defence of jobs, pensions and pay.

Stopping job cuts at Met police

2011-07-07

PCS officials - backed up by well-organised members - are confident they will stop the threat of compulsory redundancies at the Metropolitan Police.

Cameron quizzed about offshoring jobs

2011-07-07

The prime minister has pledged to "look closely at the case" of government jobs which face offshoring to India.

Labour rights and wrongs

2011-07-11

Public employees in the usually quiet US state of Wisconsin are at the centre of a ferocious battle to defend their unions

What's it like working at .........

2011-07-11

In the Department for Work and Pensions PCS members have to implement unpopular changes to the benefit systems. One of the most controversial is the reassessment of people on incapacity benefit

Me and my job

2011-07-11

Land Registry workers like Tun Chit sort out thorny problems over next door?s fence. But cuts mean their own career opportunities never knock

Were you a first time striker on 30 June?

2011-07-12

Were you striking for the first time on 30 June? If so, we want to hear from you.

Member log-in disabled

2011-07-11

Access to iMembership is disabled between 10.30am and 12.30pm today while essential work is carried out. Apologies for any inconvenience caused by this.

Make sure your records are up to date

2011-07-15

PCS is developing the way we communicate with members electronically.

High court action begins on compensation scheme

2011-07-18

PCS begins a judicial review tomorrow (18 July) of the government's decision to introduce a new compensation scheme for civil servants? redundancy and early retirement pay.

What's popular at pcs.org.uk

2011-07-18

The PCS site has seen a huge amount of people visiting over the last few months, as activists, members and the general public visit pcs.org.uk to get the latest on the campaign for the alternative.

PCS members make their mark at the TUC Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Trans (LGBT) conference

2011-07-20

Members of PCS Proud, the PCS equality group representing LGBT members joined other union equality groups at the annual conference held in late June to look at how to defend LGBT members in the face of government cuts across the public sector.

Save our forests - Have your say

2011-07-21

Help oppose the privatisation of public forests by responding to a new consultation.

Union campaign saves tax jobs

2011-07-21

PCS activists in Scotland are 'ecstatic' after saving 20 jobs at the tax office in Wick.

Stop the privatisation of criminal enforcement

2011-07-22

Support the campaign, email your local MP today.

PCS News digest 22 July

2011-07-22

This weekly news digest is a summary of news, campaign articles, media releases and reports from the past week

Get active online

2011-07-22

As anger against the government's cuts continues to grow there is a wide range of opposition websites and activists using social media to organise against the Tory-Lib Dem savage attacks. Here is a selection of some of the best:

Campaign for living wages

2011-07-25

Ask your MP to support the campaign for living wages.

Massive rejection of pension plans by jail workers

2011-07-25

More than 95% of prison officers have voted to reject government pension proposals in a ballot organised by their union - a result PCS has welcomed.

Waiting for redundancy robbery ruling

2011-07-27

The judge who heard last week's court case about cuts to civil service redundancy terms is considering his ruling.

PCS young members send solidarity to Norway

2011-07-27

The PCS youth committee expresses our deepest sympathy for the tragic loss of life following the horrific attacks against young people in Norway who were simply exercising their right to democracy and freedom - and to organise.

PCS statement to members on public sector pensions

2011-07-28

The government has today (Thursday 28 July) made further announcements regarding their attacks on public sector pensions - confirming what we have said all along: they want you to pay more and work longer for a smaller pension.

Building locally for action in the autumn

2011-07-29

How PCS members can continue to campaign for the alternative and build for action this Autumn.

How to campaign in local newspapers

2011-08-02

There are various ways of getting your campaign noticed in the local press, here we look at effective ways of working with the media

PCS news digest 29 July

2011-08-01

This weekly news digest is a summary of news, campaign articles, media releases and reports from the past week.

Building on our successful strike

2011-08-01

The national campaign remains the priority as this is the biggest crisis ever faced by our members

National organising strategy: Fighting back against the cuts

2011-08-01

The environment for all trade unions is becoming increasingly hostile. In the United States, public sector workers in Wisconsin and Ohio are facing the full force of government hostility. State governments are legislating to remove collective bargaining rights from their employees, effectively de-recognising the unions. Their response is to organise and campaign for their rights. In the UK, we face unprecedented attacks on public services, jobs, pensions, pay, and the threat of wide-scale privatisation.

Getting your voice heard on Comment Is Free

2011-08-01

The Guardian's Comment is Free website is a useful tool for campaigners. But how can you give yourself the best chance of getting your pitch commissioned?

Towns face hardship if navy quits

2011-08-01

Plans to merge two naval training bases without consulting the staff who work there, or the communities where they are based, could have "massive economic consequences".

Recruiting and organising essential to union survival

2011-08-01

PCS and the UK's biggest union Unite have signed an agreement to work more closely together; we look at Unite's approach to organising in a hostile environment and the terms of the main points of the accord.

Stop cuts to the Skills Funding Agency

2011-08-02

Support our campaign against cuts to training for young people.

Tell us your successful recruitment tips

2011-08-03

Over the next few weeks we are looking to feature tips from reps on the Activate pages of the website

Me and my job - Debbie Thomas

2011-08-04

Workers like Debbie Thomas, who administer civil service pensions, are being forcibly transferred to a ?mutual?. They fear for their futures

Austerity Europe There is an alternative

2011-08-04

Across Europe workers are fighting back against draconian spending cuts that threaten to suck the life out of already fragile economies, decimating jobs and pay in their wake The Athens equivalent of Trafalgar Square is Syntagma Square.

PCS news digest 5 August

2011-08-05

This weekly news digest is a summary of news, campaign articles, media releases and reports from the past week.

What's popular at pcs.org.uk

2011-08-05

Huge amounts of people are visiting our website to get the latest on the campaign for the alternative.

Tips for successful recruitment

2011-08-05

A combination of providing information on the PCS national campaign, talking to each prospective member and keeping noticeboards up to date, have been used by the Scottish Prison Service branch to recruit new members.

Pensions calculator: What the changes mean for you

2011-08-05

Our pensions calculator proved to be one of the most popular items on our website in the run-up to the strike on 30 June, we have now relaunched it using the latest information available from the government.

Head teachers join 30 November action

2011-11-09

Head teachers have voted to take part in the 30 November strike over pensions.

Make a day of it on your picket line

2011-11-09

Having UK Uncut cook strikers breakfast, dishing out home-made cakes, holding all-members? meetings and holding pre-strike workshops, were some of the tips for successful picketing given by PCS reps

Politicians hear the truth about pensions

2011-11-09

More than 20 MPs and peers gathered yesterday (Tuesday 8 November) for the parliamentary launch of a new pamphlet called 'Fair pensions for all'.

Pensions update

2011-08-05

On 28 July the government announced further details of their attacks on public sector pensions ? confirming what we have said all along: they want you to pay more and work longer for a smaller pension.

Support our campaigns: Email your MP

2011-08-08

You can help to support our campaigns by completing an 'e-action' and emailing your MP directly.

Unions united to fight pension plans

2011-11-04

The PCS policy and resources committee met today and endorsed the TUC statement on public sector pensions and re-affirmed support for strike action on 30 November 2011.

Scottish teachers back 30 November action

2011-11-04

Members of Scotland's biggest teaching union have voted massively in favour of joing the pensions day of action on 30 November.

Why the government's pensions offer is bad news for all PCS members

2011-11-04

In this PCS guide to separating the fact from the fiction in the government's pensions offer on 2 November 2011, we test direct quotes from Treasury secretary Danny Alexander's statement in the House of Commons against the reality.

PCS news digest 21 October

2011-10-21

This weekly news digest is a summary of news, campaign articles, media releases and reports from the past week

Judge agrees on redundancy rights but dismisses challenge

2011-08-10

Our High Court challenge to the imposition of cuts to civil service redundancy pay has been dismissed despite the judge agreeing that existing rights should be protected under human rights legislation.

Get active with Twitter

2011-08-10

The PCS Twitter feed regularly highlights campaigns and debates for activists to get involved with, here is a selection of the latest

Pensions calculator persuades many to join PCS

2011-08-11

The Scottish courts branch is the latest to send tips on recruiting new members and effective organisation

Workers facing cuts staff riot courts

2011-08-11

Magistrates' courts staff who have been working through the night to deal with the aftermath of riots in England are under threat of redundancy and suffering from a pay freeze.

PCS news digest 12 August

2011-08-12

This weekly news digest is a summary of news, campaign articles, media releases and reports from the past week

Festival mobilises against the cuts

2011-08-12

The Mobilise anti-cuts festival, bringing together performance, workshops, debate and direct action starts in Edinburgh tomorrow.

Police staff working rest days to cover riot workload

2011-08-12

Civilian staff and community support officers in the Metropolitan police are working on their rest days to cover extra work as a result of the riots in London.

A film of hope and fear to help save NHS

2011-08-12

A new film highlighting the danger to the future of our NHS under the government's plans is now available online.

Coalition believes Youth Justice Board should be abolished because it was too successful

2011-08-15

The Youth Justice Board (YJB) pioneered the creation of a distinct youth justice system in England and Wales, focusing on crime prevention and the rehabilitation of young offenders.

Fujitsu pay battle as inflation soars

2011-08-16

PCS members at a major government contractor will have pay talks at ACAS this week - against a background of rising inflation and increasing train fares.

Tell the coalition - 'There is an alternative'

2011-08-17

PCS is urging members, and their families and friends, to support demonstrations called to coincide with the ruling coalition's party conferences.

Music and comedy for the alternative

2011-08-18

Ska legends The Beat and comedian Josie Long will provide the headline entertainment at a PCS-backed Trade Union Congress fringe event.

Protests and meetings in September and October at TUC and party conferences

2011-08-18

September and October bring the party conference season, with events and protests taking place in London, Birmingham, Liverpool and Manchester.

Message of support for Plymouth Unison

2011-08-18

PCS has pledged support for the local government union Unison after Plymouth City Council ripped up their agreement and refused to negotiate.

PCS news digest 19 August

2011-08-19

This weekly news digest is a summary of news, campaign articles, media releases and reports from the past week.

Campaign champion loves our e-actions

2011-09-02

A Revenue and Customs worker from the north east of England writes to his Liberal Democrat MP every week raising issues that are important to PCS members.

Stand up to the racist EDL

2011-08-25

PCS is urging members to support a demonstration against the racist English Defence League in east London on Saturday 3 September.

Workers who help jobless made redundant

2011-08-24

PCS members who helped the jobless find work in the UK's worst unemployment black spot have themselves been made redundant.

Support Fair Pay at Fujitsu

2011-08-25

A petition has been set up to support PCS and Unite members campaigning for fair pay at the giant technology company Fujitsu.

Harman to join closure protest

2011-08-25

Deputy Labour leader Harriet Harman is to join campaigners handing out leaflets against the closure of a jobcentre in her constituency.

PCS news digest 26 August

2011-08-26

This weekly news digest is a summary of news, campaign articles, media releases and reports from the past week

Thousands of people oppose pension changes

2011-08-26

A petition about pensions, which was posted on a UK government website by a PCS member, has garnered nearly 25,000 signatures.

New website gives unions coverage they deserve

2011-08-30

New website Union News is a professional site edited by journalists Tim Lezard and Pete Murrary with more than 50 years' experience between them.

Unions campaign to save NHS

2011-08-30

Trade unions are joining together to defend the National Health Service from government plans to open it up to private contractors.

Pay deal boost for union workers

2011-08-30

Negotiations by PCS reps and officials more than doubled a pay offer to a small group of union members in the private sector.

Group fights for equality

2011-08-31

New campaign group UK Feminista is encouraging women and men to stand up and be counted in the fight for equality and against the cuts

PCS news digest 2 September

2011-09-02

This weekly news digest is a summary of news, campaign articles, media releases and reports from the past week.

MP joins campaigners in jobcentre closure fight

2011-09-03

PCS campaigners fighting to defend their jobs will be joined by deputy Labour leader Harriet Harman in demanding the government backs down on plans to close Camberwell Green jobcentre.

Vote 'no' to coastguard closures

2011-09-02

Workers in the coastguard service are being balloted on management plans to axe eight stations and merge others.

What's popular at pcs.org.uk

2011-09-02

Thousands of people visit the PCS website every day to get the latest on the campaign for the alternative.

OFT unions reach out to new members

2011-09-05

PCS members at a central London workplace will join with fellow trades-unionists from the FDA and Unite to hold a recruitment day later this week.

PCS at the Green Party conference

2011-09-05

PCS will be lobbying this weekend's Green Party conference in support of an alternative to the coalition government's policies of cuts and austerity.

Anti-fascists mobilise to keep out EDL

2011-09-06

Thousands of anti-fascists, trade unionists and members of the local community marched through Whitechapel in east London after the English Defence League failed in its bid to demonstrate in Tower Hamlets.

Support anti-nuclear blockade

2011-09-06

PCS is supporting a blockade organised by Stop New Nuclear, an alliance of anti-nuclear groups led by CND, at Hinkley Point in Somerset on 3 October

TUC urged to lead action against cuts

2011-09-06

Trades unionists will be demonstrating this weekend in support of more co-ordinated industrial action to defend jobs, pensions, pay and public services.

International concern over equality cuts

2011-09-06

A United Nations' committee has expressed "particular concern" at UK government plans to make big cuts to the budget of the Equality and Human Rights Commission.

Courts re-think needed after axe attack

2011-09-07

PCS is urging the Ministry of Justice to reconsider planned cuts and closures after an axe attack at Haringey Magistrates Court in north London.

March today to save the NHS

2011-09-07

Health workers and patients will be taking to the streets of London this evening (Wednesday 7 September) to defend the National Health Service and urge MPs to vote against the health bill currently before parliament.

Stand up to racists in Scotland

2011-09-08

PCS is supporting counter protests against a demonstration in Edinburgh by the racist Scottish Defence League.

Civil service and teaching unions threaten action

2011-09-08

Two of PCS's fellow civil service unions have announced today they are seriously considering balloting for industrial action in the autumn over the government's pension plans.

Solidarity with striking youth workers

2011-09-08

PCS has sent a message of support to youth workers who are striking in prime minister David Cameron's Oxfordshire constituency.

PCS news digest 9 September

2011-09-09

This weekly news digest is a summary of news, campaign articles, media releases and reports from the past week

Invest in jobs and a fairer society, government told

2011-09-12

Medieval quacks kept cutting away at the patient and then wondered why he died, said PCS vice president Dave Bean, in a speech to TUC congress that condemned the government's economic policies and called for an alternative based on investment and creating jobs.

Fringe event stresses need for action against cuts

2011-09-12

Organising resistance to defeat the government's cuts was the clear message at a PCS-backed fringe event on the eve of the 143rd annual Trades Union Congress

Fair pensions for all, demand delegates

2011-09-12

Speaking to a packed fringe meeting, PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka reminded delegates that the UK's economy is the fifth largest in the world and should easily be able to afford to pay people a decent retirement income

Developing trade unionism in the crisis

2011-09-12

Unions must rise to the challenge of the cuts by empowering local branches and developing wider civil society resistance says Huw Beynon in Red Pepper magazine

Every cut has a victim, says PCS president

2011-09-12

Talking about the vital importance of public services to the economy, PCS president, Janice Godrich, said the debate was about: The key role public spending can play in helping us get out of the mess the investment bankers and speculators caused when they crashed our economy.

PCS calls on Labour leader to back action on pensions

2011-09-13

During a TUC question and answer session on public sector pensions with Labour party leader Ed Miliband, PCS president Janice Godrich asked him if he would support public sector workers prepared to strike to defend their pensions.

Young, gifted and organised

2011-09-13

"There is a perception that the union is just for middle-aged men. But young people can be as active as they want to be" Louise Hollingsworth

Pay up and end poverty

2011-09-13

People are delivering government contracts on poverty pay. Why? Because the companies they work for are using the national minimum wage as an excuse to keep pay down. PCS is campaigning for a decent ?living? wage for all workers

Knee-jerk reaction to riots condemned

2011-09-13

Knee-jerk reactions to the riots which blame certain sections of society were condemned by an emergency motion at TUC congress, supported by PCS delegate Helen Flanagan.

PCS rep picks up young organiser award

2011-09-13

PCS rep Nick Parker was presented with the youth award at the TUC congress

Anger over congress downsizing

2011-09-13

There was anger about the government's cuts and the downsizing of this year's TUC congress at a fringe meeting

What's it like working as.....

2011-09-13

a cleaner at the Department for Work and Pensions.

Fighting for equal pay for young workers

2011-09-13

Fighting for equal pay for young workers should be central to unions? campaigns for the national minimum wage, PCS said at the TUC annual Congress

Me and my job -

2011-09-13

Pension payments to wounded servicemen and women, and the families of their fallen comrades, are administered by Janice MacKay and her colleagues in Scotland

Cuts raise safety fears

2011-09-14

PCS national executive member Paula Brown spoke out against cutbacks at the Health and Safety Executive on the final morning of the Trades Union Congress.

Together we can win

2011-09-14

Together we can win was the rallying call at a lively fringe meeting organised by the Trade Union Co-ordinating Group

Make Palestinian state a reality

2011-09-14

PCS at the TUC congress called on Barack Obama and the international community to make an independent Palestine a reality and not block its freedom

Government cuts hitting black workers

2011-09-14

Black workers are bearing the brunt of public sector cuts, national executive member Zita Holbourne told delegates.

Green light for alternative campaign

2011-09-14

PCS received welcome support for our campaign for the alternative to government cuts at last weekend's Green Party conference in Sheffield.

Ask your Labour MP to support our campaign

2011-09-14

Help support our campaign to defend public services by emailing your local Labour MP.

Show Egyptian unions our support

2011-09-14

Giving support and solidarity to the unions that helped to overthrow the Mubarak regime was the message from PCS in supporting a TUC congress motion on Egypt

Day of action - 30 November

2011-09-14

Following today's historic decision on co-ordinated strike action at the TUC, the 30 November has been agreed as the date for action.

Fighting the privatisation of justice

2011-09-16

The proposed cuts of 23% to the Ministry of Justice budget, the closure of a third of all courts, the creeping privatisation of the justice sector and the threat to 15,000 jobs were condemned by PCS at TUC congress

Campaigning for the alternative during conference season

2011-09-16

PCS is continuing to show that there is an alternative to government cuts during party conference season.

PCS news digest 16 September

2011-09-16

This weekly news digest is a summary of news, campaign articles, media releases and reports from the past week

Hutton: 'I accept what Mark Serwotka said'

2011-09-20

The former Labour cabinet minister providing cover for the Tory-led government's raid on public sector pensions has been forced to concede he was wrong to say the unions had misunderstood his findings

30 November: Next steps in the national campaign

2011-09-20

At TUC Congress 2011 unions unanimously agreed to co-ordinate industrial action over pensions. Following Congress, public sector unions met and agreed to co-ordinate action for 30 November if the government continues its intransigent stance on pension cuts.

Star in the new Robin Hood Tax video

2011-09-21

Help make a brilliant idea a brilliant reality by starring in a new interactive video narrated by star of stage and screen Bill Nighy.

Join the Battle of Cable Street march against fascism

2011-09-22

Next month sees the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Cable Street, a victory that trade unionists played a very significant role in bringing about. David Rosenberg of the Cable Street 75 mobilising committee explains its legacy and says why everyone should join a march against fascism on 2 October

UK Uncut plans mass disruption to save NHS

2011-09-22

Activists who brought the campaign for tax justice to the high street are planning an act of "mass civil disobedience" against the government's plans to effectively privatise our NHS.

Join the social network for trade unionists

2011-09-22

UnionBook the social networking site for trade unionists includes links to campaigns, lists of events, blog posts, jobs, music and lively discussion.

Anti-racism festival at heart of community

2011-09-23

The message of anti-racism will be at the heart of a London community at this weekend's Uprise Festival

PCS News Digest 23 September

2011-09-23

This weekly news digest is a summary of news, campaign articles, media releases and reports from the past week

Lobbying the party of Labour

2011-09-26

PCS is intervening at this year's Labour conference to promote the union's campaign for an alternative economic policy.

Anger towards Lib Dems

2011-09-26

PCS lobbied for an economic alternative during last week's Liberal Democrat party conference.

Put them straight over pensions

2011-09-27

PCS members have been responding in their droves to a civil service consultation on pension contributions increases.

Delegates oppose pensions change

2011-09-28

Monday's poll on the PCS stall at Labour's conference had a fantastic response from party delegates.

The cuts don't work: PCS Labour Party fringe event

2011-09-29

Campaign for an alternative to government cuts is debated at this year's Labour Party conference.

Opposition to plans to privatise HMRC call centres

2011-09-29

Members in HM Revenue and Customs are being asked whether they would support taking industrial action to stop the privatisation of call centres.

PCS news digest 30 September

2011-09-30

This weekly news digest is a summary of news, campaign articles, media releases and reports from the past week.

Protest in Glasgow and Manchester

2011-09-30

PCS is supporting two national demonstrations for an economic alternative being held this weekend.

Getting active online

2011-10-04

As anger against the government's cuts continues to grow there is a wide range of online resources organising against the coalition's savage attacks. Here is a selection:

Visit our 30 November one-stop shop

2011-10-04

PCS reps and members can now get all the latest campaign resources and information for the 30 November strike at our dedicated 30 November page.

Fighting cuts in Aberdeen and Glasgow

2011-10-04

Around 15,000 people joined the Scottish trade union People First march in Glasgow on Saturday (October 1).

Union donates to miners' families

2011-10-06

PCS has given �5,000 to the appeal fund set up after four Welsh miners were killed when their pit flooded in September.

Pensioners get CPI, students pay RPI

2011-10-06

The government is picking and choosing its preferred interest rate - and ordinary people lose out every time.

Timothy Spall stands up for coastguards

2011-10-06

The actor Timothy Spall has signed a petition against the planned closure of coastguard stations and urged his twitter followers to do the same.

PCS news digest 7 October

2011-10-07

This weekly news digest is a summary of news, campaign articles, media releases and reports from the past week

Join a reps' briefing session in your area

2011-10-07

More than 1,500 reps have so far taken part in over 150 national campaign briefing sessions.

Support for the 30 November day of action

2011-10-07

More than twenty unions are supporting the Wednesday 30 November protest over cuts to public sector pensions.

30 November - Show your support on Facebook and Twitter

2011-10-07

PCS has produced '30 November' artwork for people to use as their profile picture on Facebook, Twitter and other social networking sites.

Join the PCS debate on Unionbook

2011-10-10

PCS has launched a group on social networking site Unionbook where you can swap tips with other reps.

Response to government pension consultation

2011-10-11

PCS has submitted a detailed response to a government consultation on increasing employee contributions to the civil service pension scheme.

Update group action plans now

2011-10-11

In the run-up to the national day of action on 30 November it is important groups update their national campaign action plans

A million workers vote over 30 November

2011-10-11

Unison has today (Tuesday 11 October) started the UK's biggest ever industrial action ballot as part of the campaign to stop cuts to public sector pensions.

Act now to stop poverty in the UK

2011-10-11

A report by independent financial experts says UK government policies are increasing poverty - as predicted by PCS.

Big companies save billions via tax havens

2011-10-11

PCS has renewed calls for tax loop-holes to be closed after the charity Action Aid revealed that 98 out of Britain's top 100 companies send money offshore to avoid payments to the exchequer.

Show Jarrow marchers your support

2011-10-12

The New Jarrow March is in to its second week attracting support from a wide range of trade unionists and community groups.

What's popular at pcs.org.uk

2011-10-12

Thousands of people visit the PCS website every day to get the latest on the campaign for the alternative.

Don't auction off workers' rights

2011-10-12

PCS members will be supporting a demonstration outside Sotheby's art auctioneers in support of workers who have been locked-out of the company's New York office.

Mark rallies troops at Kew Gardens

2011-10-13

PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka visited the National Archive HQ to talk to PCS members about the 30 November national strike and other issues.

HP workers back pay deal

2011-10-13

PCS members at Hewlett Packard have voted massively in favour of accepting a pay deal that introduced a minimum salary of �15,500.

Tell the government 'red tape' is essential

2011-10-13

The government's Red Tape Challenge claims to reduce 'the overall burden of regulation' but threatens to undermine existing regulation necessary for the protection of important workplace rights

One society many cultures

2011-10-14

PCS is supporting a convention in London on Saturday (15 October) which aims to celebrate diversity and defend multiculturalism.

PCS news digest 14 October

2011-10-14

This weekly news digest is a summary of news, campaign articles, media releases and reports from the past week

30 November goes offshore

2011-10-14

A thousand seafarers are to be balloted for industrial action over their pensions so they can join in the national day of action on Wednesday 30 November.

Tax mistakes inevitable after job cuts

2011-10-19

PCS is calling on the tax office to stop job cuts and employ more staff after millions of mistakes were uncovered for the second year running.

Demonstration at the stock exchange

2011-10-14

Protestors will be blocking the London Stock Exchange tomorrow (Saturday 15 October) demanding an end to cuts and austerity.

Stop the great pensions robbery

2011-10-17

New 30 November banners have been unveiled at PCS HQ in Clapham Junction.

School closure threatens reputation of civil service

2011-10-17

The closure of the National School of Government is unnecessary and short-sighted, and could damage the credibility and reputation of the civil service for decades to come.

Big pay rise for Buckingham Palace cleaners

2011-10-17

The Queen's cleaners have won a 16% pay rise after a campaign by PCS.

Show the judges we mean business

2011-10-18

PCS members, other trades unionists and pensioners' groups will be protesting outside the Royal Courts of Justice next week.

Timeline to strike day

2011-10-18

Branches must ensure that their branch executive committee meets, plans recruitment, members' meetings, leafleting, and liaises with other unions. It is important also to lobby MPs and the media and that strike materials are ordered in good time from PCS headquarters.

Double hit as cost of living soars

2011-10-18

PCS has renewed calls for an alternative economic strategy after the double hit of UK inflation and unemployment soaring to their highest levels since the last time there was a Conservative government.

Help to stop defence privateers

2011-10-19

PCS members in the Ministry of Defence are urging fellow trades unionists to write to their Members of Parliament to protest about privatisation.

Maude nods to backdoor privatisation for mutuals

2011-10-21

Cabinet Office minister Francis Maude has indicated that the 'mutualisation' being imposed on the public sector could lead to full privatisation.

One e-mail can make a difference

2011-10-25

Show your support - please write to your local MP asking them to support our campaigns today.

Pension switch is unlawful, High Court hears

2011-10-25

The government acted unlawfully and beyond its powers when it changed inflation-proofing for public sector pensions was a fundamental point of the case made on behalf of PCS and other unions at the start of a judicial review at the High Court today.

Unfair dismissal proposals are latest attack on workers

2011-10-26

Proposals to strip "unproductive workers" of their right to claim unfair dismissal are the latest example of attempts to erode employment rights and victimise employees, says PCS

Protect Welsh forests

2011-10-26

The Welsh Government is proposing to merge Forestry Commission Wales with the Countryside Council for Wales and the Environment Agency into a single body. Sign a petition agasint the proposals.

Cuts could mean Charity Commission scales back vital work

2011-10-26

The government?s spending cuts could mean the Charity Commission having to scale down its vital work advising charities and investigating wrongdoing

Civil Service Pension workers take action

2011-10-27

PCS members at My Civil Service Pension (MyCSP) are to start action short of a strike on 31 October.

Decision expected in weeks on pensions legal challenge

2011-10-28

The outcome of the judicial review brought by PCS and other unions against the government's change in inflation-proofing for public sector pensions is expected in a matter of weeks

PCS news digest 28 October

2011-10-28

This weekly news digest is a summary of news, campaign articles, media releases and reports from the past week

Update your records today

2011-10-28

It is more important than ever that there are alternative ways for you to be contacted through personal mobile phone numbers and non-work email addresses so that you can receive the latest information from PCS as text messages or emails.

PCS reaction to the passing of Campbell Christie

2011-10-28

PCS General Secretary, Mark Serwotka in a statement today said:

GMB workers vote over 30 November

2011-10-28

GMB members who work in schools and local councils are among the latest workers being balloted over industrial action to stop the government's plans to cut public sector pensions.

Tribute to Campbell Christie

2011-10-28

PCS general secretary, Mark Serwotka, has paid tribute to Campbell Christie former deputy general secretary of the Society of Civil and Public Servants who died today aged 74

Government's desperate attempt to equate pensions talks

2011-10-31

Members of PCS may have seen reports in the press that the government is attempting to equate its own proposals to raid public sector pensions with the negotiations over increasing contributions for PCS staff.

30 November - Show your support this Halloween

2011-10-31

A PCS member has created a sensationally spooky special edition '30 November' artwork for people to use as their profile picture on Facebook, Twitter and other social networking sites.

What is it like working at Xafinity in Fleetwood

2011-10-31

Since they were transferred into the private sector a group of PCS members in Lancashire have seen their wages eroded. Now some of them earn barely more than the minimum wage

We deserve better

2011-10-31

They are essential workers who keep the wheels of government turning ? the messengers who deliver vital documents and packages for civil service departments. Yet many are paid less than the widely-recognised living wage

Join me in the fight

2011-10-31

PCS general secretary talks about the futility of cuts, the government attacks on pensions and why every member counts on the day of action, 30 November

Mutual plans privatisation by another name

2011-10-31

From prisons to pensions administration our public services are under attack from an old enemy masquerading as a friend

Tell Cameron to back a Robin Hood Tax

2011-11-01

World leaders from 20 major economies are meeting this week to discuss the world economy and financial market, and you can make your voice heard at the meeting by asking David Cameron to take a stand that will be admired worldwide.

Keep privateers off our land

2011-11-01

PCS is concerned that a government scheme to change the way public information is handled could be part of a smokescreen for privatisation.

Tell government to invest in services

2011-11-02

PCS is urging public sector workers to use a government consultation to argue for services to be properly funded and staffed.

Download our new pensions pamphlet

2011-11-02

Get your copy of our new pamphlet 'Fair Pensions for All', produced in conjunction with Unite, NUT, UCU and the National Pensioners Convention.

Remember remember, the 30th of November

2011-11-03

PCS member Karen Lee has followed up her spooktacular Halloween special edition '30 November' artwork with an explosively fun firework night edition.

Unison members support 30 November action

2011-11-03

More than a million members of the local government and health union Unison are set to strike over pensions on 30 November.

Union warns against privatisation of court fine enforcement

2011-11-04

PCS has urged the government to reconsider plans to privatise criminal enforcement stating that private firms will only target the vulnerable and waste public money

PCS news digest 4 November

2011-11-04

This weekly news digest is a summary of news, campaign articles, media releases and reports from the past week

Northern Ireland workers back 30 November

2011-11-07

Members of the Northern Ireland Public Service Alliance (NIPSA) have voted decidively to support the 30 November day of action over pensions.

Send us your View letters

2011-11-08

Is there a burning issue that you want to get off your chest?

Taking the case to the MoD

2011-11-08

Six thousand civil servants on a Ministry of Defence site near Bristol will this week get the chance to work out how their pensions will be hit by government changes.

N30 daily tip - Tuesday 8 November

2011-11-08

The PCS website is publishing a daily tip for union activists in the run up to the Wednesday 30 November co-ordinated strike over pensions.

N30 daily tip - Wednesday 9 November

2011-11-09

The PCS website is publishing a daily tip for union activists in the run up to the Wednesday 30 November co-ordinated strike over pensions

Use radio to defend pensions

2011-11-10

PCS members and supporters are being urged to challenge the government over public sector pension cuts by contacting radio phone-in shows.

N30 daily tip - Thursday 10 November

2011-11-10

The PCS website is publishing a daily tip for union activists in the run up to the Wednesday 30 November co-ordinated strike over pensions.

Support for protesting electricians

2011-11-10

PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka has sent a message of support to electricians battling to defend their nationally negotiated pay and conditions.

PCS news digest 11 November

2011-11-11

This weekly news digest is a summary of news, campaign articles, media releases and reports from the past week

N30 daily tip - Friday 11 November

2011-11-11

The PCS website is publishing a daily tip for union activists in the run up to the Wednesday 30 November co-ordinated strike over pensions.

Meet to mobilise the midlands

2011-11-11

PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka will be speaking at events in the English midlands to make the case for the alternative to cuts ahead of joint action on 30 November.

Rise up and support the action on 30 November

2011-11-11

A community theatre group based in the west midlands are supporting the three million striking workers on 30 November and have recorded an anthem 'Rise up' to inspire and encourage support for this action.

Fifteen more unions balloting over pensions

2011-11-11

Fifteen more unions will be announcing ballot results in the next two weeks that are expected to confirm support for strike action over pensions on Wednesday 30 November.

Civil servants united over pensions

2011-11-14

The three civil service unions with members across all government departments have voted to strike over pensions on 30 November.

Get your voice heard on 30 November

2011-11-14

To support the action on 30 November we are looking for people who are willing to share how much they will lose with local and national media

Photo op for your local paper

2011-11-15

PCS is urging union branches across the UK to use interactive pension red cards in the run-up to the 30 November strike, to create a photo op for your local weekly or daily paper.

N30 daily tip - Tuesday 15 November

2011-11-15

The PCS website is publishing a daily tip for union activists in the run-up to the Wednesday 30 November co-ordinated strike over pensions.

Northern Ireland teachers back N30 strike

2011-11-16

Members of the Irish National Teachers Organisation in Northern Ireland have voted massively in favour of backing the 30 November day of action over pensions.

Massive strike votes by health specialists

2011-11-15

Three specialist health unions have voted more than 80 percent in favour of strike action over pensions.

Newspaper riposte praises public servants

2011-11-15

A letter published in a local newspaper in south west England highlights the extent to which public services touch our lives from cradle to grave, and calls on readers to support the joint strike on 30 November.

N30 daily tip - Wednesday 16 November

2011-11-16

The PCS website is publishing a daily tip for union activists in the run-up to the Wednesday 30 November co-ordinated strike over pensions.

Construction workers back 30 November

2011-11-16

Members of the building union UCATT have voted decisively in favour of backing the 30 November day of action over pensions.

Irish general union backs 30 November

2011-11-16

Members of the Irish general union SIPTU have voted decisively to back the 30 November day of action over pensions.

GMB and Unite back pensions strike

2011-11-16

Members of the GMB and Unite general unions have voted decisively to support strike action over pensions on 30 November.

Pensions message hits Midlands media

2011-11-17

PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka has been speaking this week at a series of meetings in the English east midlands to build support for the pensions day of action on Wednesday 30 November.

Probation workers join pensions strike

2011-11-17

Members of Napo - the union for probation officers and family court staff - have voted decisively to support strike action over pensions on 30 November.

N30 daily tip - Friday 18 November

2011-11-18

The PCS website is publishing a daily tip for union activists in the run-up to the Wednesday 30 November co-ordinated strike over pensions.

PCS news digest 18 November

2011-11-18

This weekly news digest is a summary of news, campaign articles, media releases and reports from the past week

NASUWT teachers vote decisively for pensions strike

2011-11-18

Members of one of the biggest teaching unions in the UK voted overwhelmingly to support strike action over pensions on 30 November.

Stand by your colleagues say St Paul's occupiers

2011-11-18

The Occupy Movement protesting outside St Paul's Cathedral has expressed enthusiastic support for the November 30 strike over pensions.

Lobby your MP about Palestine

2011-11-18

PCS and the Unite trade union are among the organisations supporting a lobby of parliament in support of the Palestinian people's right to live in peace and govern their own affairs.

RMT members back 30 November

2011-11-21

The RMT transport union has announced that two groups of members who have public sector pensions have voted for industrial action to protest against changes.

Support the action on 30 November

2011-11-21

PCS members voted in June 2011 to take strike action to defend our pensions, pay and jobs. Alongside three other unions we took the best-supported strike action in our history on 30 June, with rallies and marches in every major city and town in the UK.

Making unions top of the pops

2011-11-21

A group of musicians who work in the public sector have released a song that they hope will chart in the run up to the 30 November day of action over pensions.

Ask MPs to defend all pensions

2011-11-21

Everybody who supports the PCS call for 'Fair pensions for all'?is being asked to write to their member of parliament before the 30 November day of action.

Inundated with orders for N30 materials

2011-11-22

PCS has been bombarded with an unprecedented amount of requests from members for materials for the upcoming day of action on 30 November.

N30 daily tip - Wednesday 23 November

2011-11-23

The PCS website is publishing a daily tip for union activists in the run-up to the Wednesday 30 November co-ordinated strike over pensions.

Victory at the Youth Justice Board

2011-11-24

The government has called off plans to scrap the Youth Justice Board (YJB) after a campaign in which PCS played a prominent role.

Untrained strike-breakers on the front line

2011-11-24

PCS has called on the government to stop hunting for strike-breakers around the world and to spend their time negotiating a settlement to next week's mass walkout over pensions.

Let us know your strike stories

2011-11-24

It is vital we get a clear picture of what is happening across all workplaces when we take national strike action on 30 November 2011, and to do so, we want to know what's happening at your picket line.

TV licence workers join day of action

2011-11-24

Members of a 30th union have joined the ranks of strikers taking part in the national day of action on Wednesday 30 November.

N30 daily tip - Thursday 24 November

2011-11-24

The PCS website is publishing a daily tip for union activists in the run-up to the Wednesday 30 November co-ordinated strike over pensions.

Countdown 30 November on Facebook and Twitter

2011-11-25

PCS has produced 30 November countdown artwork for people to use as their profile picture on Facebook, Twitter and other social networking sites.

PCS news digest 25 November

2011-11-25

This weekly news digest is a summary of news, campaign articles, media releases and reports from the past week

N30 daily tip - Friday 25 November

2011-11-25

The PCS website is publishing a daily tip for union activists in the run-up to the Wednesday 30 November co-ordinated strike over pensions.

Let's make MPs discuss pension changes

2011-11-25

A petition posted on a government website by a PCS member from Scotland has nearly notched up the 100,000 signatures needed to prompt a debate in parliament.

Solidarity from international colleagues

2011-11-28

Leaders of public sector unions from across Europe have been sending PCS messages of support in advance of the national strike on Wednesday 30 November - co-ordinated with more than 20 other unions.

Live strike coverage on PCS website

2011-11-28

You will be able to follow the 30 November national strike on a live blog on the PCS website.

Cabinet Office pension calculator shows losses

2011-11-28

The Cabinet Office pension calculator which was taken down for a week has re-appeared on a government website.

How to read the government calculator

2011-11-28

The Cabinet Office has posted a pensions calculator on a government website.

Government pensions calculator - examples

2011-11-28

The government has published a pensions calculator on the civil service website.

All out N30 - Thank you

2011-11-28

On the eve of Wednesday's strike, we want to record our sincere thanks to all PCS reps and members for the enormous amount of work carried out across the union.

PCS battle bus hits London on N30

2011-11-28

The PCS battle bus will be touring the capital on the day of action, Wednesday 30 November.

N30 daily tip - Monday 28 November

2011-11-28

The PCS website is publishing a daily tip for union activists in the run-up to the Wednesday 30 November co-ordinated strike over pensions.

Poll shows big support for strike

2011-11-28

An opinion poll for the BBC found that nearly two thirds of people in Britain support Wednesday?s planned strike over pensions by PCS members and other trades unionists.

MPs bombarded with fair pensions message

2011-11-28

More than half of the MPs in the House of Commons have been written to in the last week by constituents who support PCS?s 'Fair pensions for all' campaign.

N30 daily tips - Tuesday and Wednesday

2011-11-29

The PCS website is publishing a daily tip for union activists in the run-up to the Wednesday 30 November co-ordinated strike over pensions.

Cambridge strikers star on TV

2011-12-01

Channel 4 News went to Cambridge to interview four women taking part in Wednesday's national strike over pensions.

30 November - Thank you and next steps

2011-12-01

Every single PCS member on strike on 30 November should be proud of themselves and the millionaires in the government should be ashamed of themselves.

Huhne's numbers don't check out

2011-12-01

Channel 4's Factchecker blog has described as 'fanciful' government claims that their latest public sector pensions offer will make some workers better off.

PCS says free the Miami Five

2011-12-01

PCS is backing a demonstration at the US Embassy in London this evening (Thursday 1 December) against the continued detention of five Cuban men who were convicted of espionage.

Ministers' strike day lies

2011-12-01

You couldn't make it up! But they could and they did. We look at some of the lies told by government ministers on strike day.

PCS news digest 2 December

2011-12-02

This weekly news digest is a summary of news, campaign articles, media releases and reports from the past week

Not a minute on the day

2011-12-02

PCS members who took part in the national pensions strike on Wednesday are reminded that there is an overtime ban in place until the end of December.

Pensions fight goes on after court ruling

2011-12-06

The majority ruling against our High Court challenge to the government's imposed switch in the inflation measure used to increase public sector pensions was disappointing, but is not the end.

Cuts endanger workers' health

2011-12-06

PCS has called on the government to reverse cuts to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) before bringing-in proposed changes to the law.

Government urged to stop pensions attack

2011-12-07

Scottish and Welsh MPs have called on the government to stop attacking public sector pensions.

Support striking Unilever workers

2011-12-08

Workers at the company that makes Flora and Marmite will strike tomorrow (Friday 9 December) to defend their pensions.

PCS Scotland faces severe weather

2011-12-08

The PCS offices in Glasgow and Edinburgh have closed this afternoon (Thursday 8 December) because of severe weather.

PCS news digest 9 December

2011-12-09

This weekly news digest is a summary of news, campaign articles, media releases and reports from the past week

Send support to Revenue walkout

2011-12-09

PCS members who work for Revenue and Customs will walk out for three hours on Monday to protest against a punitive sickness absence scheme and against privatisation at two call centres.

Have a savvy Christmas

2011-12-09

Tips and tools from the Money Advice Service (a statutory body paid for by the levy placed on the financial services industry) can help you manage your money throughout the festive season: