Winners of organising and communications awards 2026 announced

We received an unprecedented number of nominations for the awards this year – a testament to the excellent work being done by branches and activists across the union. 

Individual award 

The winner of the individual award was John Ritchie from the National Galleries Scotland branch.

John has built up a large and active network of advocates who, among other things, request feedback by canvassing members’ views on negotiations. Social meet-ups see reps pass on their experience and guidance to newer activists. And with John’s help, membership is now at its highest ever level.

Given the number of excellent nominations, four other reps received commendations for their activism: Clare Huson (ONS), Daz (GCG), Nick Alen (British Library) and Trevor Harris (Home Office Midlands).

Team award

The winner of the team award is the Tate Branch, whose dynamic organising campaign led to an increase in membership and a high ballot turnout.

Committee members were recognised for maintaining excellent and regular communications with members in their area. Their Instagram account engaged large numbers of members and non-members alike, their strike attracted the support of high-profile artists, and their solidarity events raised over £3,000 for the strike fund. Other strengths included an announcement-only WhatsApp chat, members regularly updating their PCS Digital information, and co-ordinated picket lines, all of which increased member engagement and resulted in more branch reps.

There were also commendations for the Bude site consultative committee the ONS branch, and Leona Marr, Ross Provan and Lauren Renton from Historic Environment Scotland at Edinburgh Castle.

New activist award

The winner of the new activist award is Gary Wheeler from the Civil Service Pension Scheme branch, with commendations for Lucy Tiller (OFWAT) and Steven Howard (HMPO Southport). 

Gary led a powerful campaign for union recognition, almost singlehandedly growing a dormant branch from the ground up to take strike action against MyCSP. This led to PCS's first recognition agreement with Capita.

Gary grew the branch from 60 members to the almost 180 needed for formal recognition from MyCSP – an almost 200% increase in membership – and made everyone in the workplace aware of the existence of the union. As well as onboarding new reps, he undertook rep training himself and used these skills to communicate with workers through noticeboards, leaflets, conversations, and branch meetings.