Public and Commercial Services Union

General information about PCS

The Public and Commercial Services Union (PCS) is a member-centred, modern trade union. We were formed, in March 1998, from the merger of the former CPSA and PTC unions and are, now, one of the largest trade unions in the U.K.

We represent staff working in the civil service; in central government departments; in former government departments, now known as agencies; and, in some private-sector companies. Nationwide, we have an expanding membership of over a quarter of a million members working in wide range of jobs.

Our headquarters staff work from a modern, four-storey, office building in London at Clapham Junction. We also operate from two other buildings in London at Victoria (London & South East regional office) and at Wandsworth Town (print & distribution). We have smaller regional offices in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Liverpool, Leeds, Birmingham, Peterborough, Cardiff and Exeter.

The work of PCS employees is ultimately determined by the union membership. However, the national executive committee (NEC), a body that is elected by the members in a postal ballot every year, is the "voice" of the membership. This committee liaises with the senior full-time officers to ensure that the work of the union is developed and effectively carried out.

The senior full-time officers, as the senior management team, oversee the work of the bargaining units, the policy departments, the administrative and support service departments and the regional centres.

Your career and benefits

Salaries

All staff are placed on the pay spine according to their type of work. Incremental progression is on an annual basis. The spine is up-rated annually in August, in line with a formula linked to the pay deals negotiated for our Members. Salaries are paid on 15th of the month directly to bank accounts.

Pensions

On appointment, staff can be placed a pension scheme. This is a non-contributory scheme. Pensions can be transferred, if appropriate. Staff receive an annual statement of their pension details. There are arrangements for staff to join a stakeholder scheme.

Main Conditions of Service and Employment Policies

PCS has generous and up-to-date conditions of service. The GMB represents PCS employees and all staff are encouraged to join. There are joint consultative; health & safety; training; and, equality & diversity committees, all of which meet regularly. Policies on recruitment & selection, health & safety, discipline, grievance & capability, sickness absence and staff training have been introduced. Other policies, including on equal opportunities, are being revised.

Staff Benefits

Family-friendly policies include a nearby, high-standard workplace nursery (London), with places for up to 15 children (under 2 to 5 years); summer & Easter playschemes (5 -12 years) at the London HQ; childcare support for regional staff; flexible working hours; career breaks; and, paid paternity leave.

Annual leave

30 days for all staff. The annual leave year is from 1 January to 31 December. In addition, there are three PCS concessionary days.

Access to Membership Services

All staff receive a PCS diary and have access to the range of services offered to PCS Members - financial advice, insurance, mortgages, legal advice, etc.

Staff Training

All staff are encouraged to undertake training, for which time and financial support are available. Newly appointed staff follow a planned induction training programme carried out by their line manager. In-house training courses are provided and staff are encouraged to participate in external events. Staff can also make use of the PCS learning centre.

Staff Welfare

The personnel department, based at Clapham HQ, can help staff with any work-related or personal problems. All staff have access to a NHS Plus Occupational Health Scheme.