Day One at DSg Conference: Setting the Agenda for Change

Pay and reward took centre stage once again, with the department’s pay policy coming under renewed scrutiny. Delegates made it clear: the fractured pay structures, a legacy of years of austerity and restraint, must be repaired. Conference backed calls for a pay award that reflects the rising cost of living.

Our MGS members raised the ongoing concerns around OMEC and the 37–42 hour issue, underlining the need for urgent resolution.

Sexual harassment and the employer’s continued failure to address the Women in Defence problem sparked a powerful response. Conference unanimously backed a motion demanding full compliance with the Equality Act. Members voiced their frustration at the department’s inaction and called for immediate steps to protect and support women in the workplace.

Debate also turned to Defence reform: what it really means for staff and how we as a union will navigate the new Quad structures in employee relations. The conference challenged the arbitrary 60% office attendance requirement, pointing to clear evidence that remote and hybrid working supports both productivity and work–life balance.

We were joined by the general secretary, assistant general secretary, and national president. Janine Booth delivered an insightful and thought-provoking session on neurodiversity that sparked meaningful conversation.

After four hours of focused and passionate debate, the conference wrapped up day one energised and ready for the work ahead.