Members' questions about DWP closure plans

The following questions have been asked by PCS members in DWP following the announcement that the department plans to close more than 40 offices. We will update the list of questions throughout our campaign 

My workplace is one of the 43 sites planned to close. What should I do? 

PCS will be campaigning to keep all 43 sites open. There will be a number of activities for members such as members meetings, attending MP surgeries, emailing MPs and a petition. Please support our campaign by participating in those activities and by asking your colleagues to do the same. 

How can I find my rep? 

If you don’t already know who your rep is and you are a PCS member you can log in to PCS Digital. Alternatively ask a colleague, check the PCS noticeboard or sometimes you may be able to find the name of your rep on the intranet. 

I’m not a union member. What can I do? 

We would advise all non-members to join PCS. The more of us that join on your site the better chance we have of keeping it open. 

What is the union doing about this? 

We are continuing to talk to the DWP to persuade them not to go ahead with office closures. But we need to exert pressure in as many ways as possible. We will be meeting with MPs to ask them to support our campaign, asking people to sign a petition and asking members to see how much they spend locally to understand the impact that office closures will have on the local economy. 

My job is due to be relocated, but there is no public transport to the new site.  

Be honest with your line manager when you have your one-to-one meeting and explain any problems you may have in getting to the proposed new workplace. 

My job is due to be relocated, but it will cost me so much more in petrol and parking costs to get there. Can I get my additional costs reimbursed? 

Usually, the DWP offers “Excess fares” for a period of three years after the enforced move. 

How can I contact my MP about this? 

Although PCS is looking to design and “e-action” with a generic email to go to your MP, if you feel able to, we advise you to write directly to your MP in your own words. Personal emails are far more powerful than generic ones. You can find out how to contact your MP on the UK Parliament website. 

Can I take a union rep with me when I have my one-to-one with my line manager? 

The DWP has agreed to PCS’s request for reps to attend with members in their one-to-one meetings.  

I won’t be able to meet my childcare needs if I have to travel to another office meaning I’ll probably have to cut my hours meaning a cut in pay. Is there anything I can claim? 

A reduction in working hours and income may mean that you are able to claim Universal Credit. 

How can I join the campaign to fight the closures? 

Speak to your local rep about what you can do locally or you can contact us at dwp@pcs.org.uk 

I feel very strongly about how the office closure is going to affect me, my family and my community. How can I let you know so that you can use my story anonymously for press coverage and when PCS talks to politicians. 

We are keen to hear the personal testimony of members and how office closures will affect them. Please email testimonies to dwp@pcs.org.uk