On the picket line: The Pensions Regulator
Ange, who works for the Pensions Regulator in Brighton, writes about her experience of the first of two weeks of strike action, which was called over the employer’s continued refusal to fully implement government concessions on pay.
I’ve worked for around 30 years and have never downed tools and gone on strike - I’ve never before felt the urge or the need.
Where things have needed to change in terms and conditions, or ways of working in previous roles, I’ve always relied on others to lead the way.
But not this time - this time I hope to be a part of the change.
Like many who I’ve met on the picket line, I never wanted nor expected to go on strike and I am really keen to get back to a job that I love. But I also strongly believe that TPR needs to address the inequity in the way that staff are remunerated.
If I believe that something is wrong and needs to change, then I have to take a stand, right?
The picket line is made up of people from across TPR - many of whom have never met each other before, and new friendships are being formed. It’s been refreshing to see the breadth of ages and grades that are taking this stand together with enthusiasm - united as a team.
It’s also been amazing to hear the incredible level of support that the strike is receiving from passing traffic (the main route into Brighton is a great spot to have a picket line!)
I love my job, and I love working with the committed, passionate and talented people who make TPR such a great place to work. And it's for those reasons that I feel a responsibility to take a stand and to join the picket line, which hopefully will result in fairer pay for all TPR staff.
Ange, The Pensions Regulator
How to show your support:
- Visit the picket lines which will be held on every day of the strike action (except Saturdays and Sundays) until 18 September, outside Telecom House, 125-135 Preston Road, Brighton BN1 6AF, from 8:00 to 10:30.
- Send messages of support to editor@pcs.org.uk
- You can also support our striking members by making an online donation to our strike fund.