Information from UNISON's Cleaners Conference is available at http://www.unison.org.uk/healthcare/ancillary/index.asp
Monday 30 November 2009
Sunday 29 November 2009
CHRISTMAS PAY ARRANGEMENTS
All monthly paid staff will be paid on Tuesday 22nd of December 2009.
Friday 25th December - if this day is worked it is to be claimed as bank holiday enhanced
Saturday 26th December - if this day is worked claim bank holiday enhancement. If due to work Monday claim Saturday enhanced for Monday.
Friday 25th December - if this day is worked it is to be claimed as bank holiday enhanced
Saturday 26th December - if this day is worked claim bank holiday enhancement. If due to work Monday claim Saturday enhanced for Monday.
If Saturday 26th December is a rostered/scheduled day off then Monday becomes the bank holiday. If Monday is worked claim bank holiday enhancement.
Friday 1st January - if this day is worked claim bank holiday enhancement
Monday 2 November 2009
£1000 A MONTH
Join the UNISON Welfare monthly prize draw, with monthly prizes of £1000, £500, £250 and 50 x £50.
Wednesday 21 October 2009
Members Legal Services
A useful guide to the free legal services available to members and their families can be found at:
Swine Flu Vaccination
The vaccination programme is commencing today. UNISON is encouraging its
members to take up the opportunity to be immunised against swine flu, in
addition to the seasonal winter flu virus.
Organisations should be making plans
for the vaccine to be readily available to staff without them having to travel or to
come in to work in their own time to have it. In addition detailed information will
be available to staff to enable them to make an informed judgement on the
vaccine.
for the vaccine to be readily available to staff without them having to travel or to
come in to work in their own time to have it. In addition detailed information will
be available to staff to enable them to make an informed judgement on the
vaccine.
UNISON wants to stress that there is no compulsion what so ever to
have this. However we hope that staff will see this as an opportunity to protect
them selves, their families and those in their care.
have this. However we hope that staff will see this as an opportunity to protect
them selves, their families and those in their care.
More detailed information about the vaccine is available on the department of
health’s web site,
http://www.dh.gov.uk/en/Publichealth/Flu/Swineflu/InformationandGuidance/ind
ex.htm. This includes information about the vaccination programme within
health and social care.
A training video clip on preparation of the vaccine prior
to administration can be found at
http://www.dh.gov.uk/en/News/Media/DH_107265
to administration can be found at
http://www.dh.gov.uk/en/News/Media/DH_107265
A range of publicity material has been produced and can be accessed at
http://www.dh.gov.uk/en/Publichealth/Flu/Swineflu/Campaignresources/index.htm
http://www.dh.gov.uk/en/Publichealth/Flu/Swineflu/Campaignresources/index.htm
Monday 19 October 2009
UNION RESPONSE TO MENTAL HEALTH CONSULTATION
The union has published its response to the Department of Healths consultation on mental health 'New Horizons'
Monday 12 October 2009
Nursing & Midwifery submission
UNISON has made a submission to the Prime Ministers Commission into Nursing & Midwifery.
Gail Adams, Head of Nursing, said: "As a result of responses from members from all areas of practise we have been able to develop a comprehensive submission that covers a range of nursing and midwifery practices. We were delighted to hear from so many students and HCAs - their feedback has made our evidence stronger.
"The commission will now move into a series of SHA engagement events. If you are interested in attending one of these please speak to your local chief nurse or contact Gail via email gail.adams@unison.co.uk
Wednesday 7 October 2009
UNISON TAKES CHILLING MESSAGE TO TORY PARTY CONFERENCE
UNISON took a chilling warning about the dangers of making cuts to the public sector, to the Tory party conference in Manchester today.
An ice sculpture of a hospital porter, together with his NHS wheelchair, will melt throughout the day, promoting the union’s Million Voices campaign message.
The appearance and disappearance of the hospital porter is a stark reminder that if cuts are made to the public sector, the workers that people rely on will vanish before their eyes.
Dave Prentis, UNISON General Secretary, said: “The disappearance of our hospital porter made of ice is a chilling reminder that if cuts are made to the public sector, the services people rely on will vanish. Every day, people depend on public services and public service workers to help them live their lives. Public services are crucial to helping people cope in the recession, and will encourage economic recovery in communities hit hard by the downturn. “The Tories are threatening cuts to the public sector that run into billions, but there is an alternative. They could have more than tough words for the bailed out bankers, and for the tax avoiders, who get away with more than £25 billion of taxpayer’s money each year.”
Tuesday 6 October 2009
Government honours 3 year health pay deal
UNISON today welcomed the Government’s assurance that it would honour a 3-year pay deal for the UK’s health workers.
The assurance came as the Government submitted evidence to pay review bodies covering senior civil servants, NHS managers and magistrates, calling for a pay freeze.
Head of Health, Karen Jennings, said:“We are pleased that the Government is honouring the three-year pay deal for our hard-working health members – many of whom are low-paid women. “They will breathe a sigh of relief that they won’t have their pay frozen. “
The deal has given a decent increase for our members and established a new minimum wage of £6.77 an hour.”“The 3 year deal gave 2.75% from April 2008; 2.54% in year 2 and a minimum wage of £6.77 an hour and, in year 3, an increase of 2.5%, including a flat rate increase of £420 for the bottom three grades.”
Thursday 1 October 2009
Payo sa Imigrasyon para sa mga Miyembro ng UNISON
Ikaw ba ay migranteng manggagawa mula sa bansa sa labas ng Europa?
Kailangan mo ba ng tulong sa usapin ng imigrasyon na nakakaapekto sa iyong trabaho o
karapatan mo na magtrabaho dito sa UK?
Nagbibigay ng libreng serbisyo ang UNISON kung saan maaari kayong tawagan sa telepono
upang magbigay ng payo sa usapin ng imigrasyon. Ito ay para lang sa miyembro ng UNISON na
galing mula sa mga bansa sa labas ng Europa at nagpunta dito upang magtrabaho sa UK.
Katulong ng UNISON and Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants (JCWI) na siyang
magbibigay ng suportang ito.
Kung kayo ay miyenbro ng UNISON ng mahigit na sa apat na lingo at kailangan ninyo ng payo at
inpormasyon tungkol sa usapin ng imigrasyon, tumawag lamang sa UNISON Direct sa 0845 355
0845. Ipapasa namin ang inyong detalye sa Tagapayo ng JCWI na siyang tatawag sa inyo kada
Martes 10-1500 ng umaga.
Pag-tawag ninyo sa UNISON Direct, maaari lamang na ibigay ang inyong buong pangalan, numero ng telepono at ang numero ng inyong kasapian.
Wednesday 30 September 2009
Independent Safeguarding Authority
The Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) is a new public body which has been created to help prevent unsuitable people from working with children and vulnerable adults. All individuals starting in Regulated activity or moving to a new role can register from 26 July 2010.From 1 November 2010 all individuals starting in Regulated activity or moving to a new role must register.
A union web page about ISA can be accessed at http://www.unison.org.uk/professionalservices/isa.asp
A union web page about ISA can be accessed at http://www.unison.org.uk/professionalservices/isa.asp
UNISON Evidence to NHS Pay Review Body
Following the survey of UNISON Health members conducted during July / August, 1,756 responses were received. These responses have now been analysed and written up into the attached report that provides a comprehensive picture of the views and experiences of the staff who deliver our health service.
This report has now been submitted to the NHS Pay Review Body as part of the annual evidence gathering process whereby the Review Body assesses whether there is a case for seeking a remit from the Secretary of State for Health to reopen the multi-year pay deal, and will compliment the document that the NHS Trade Unions will submit as joint staff side evidence. The staff side document will give evidence on the wider economic context, labour market conditions, recruitment and retention and staff morale.
Both the staff side evidence (attached) and the UNISON survey analysis will support UNISON’s position that the multi-year deal for NHS staff should not be disturbed and that the pay rates scheduled to come into effect on 1 April for 2010 in the final year of the multi-year deal should remain as agreed.
The evidence submitted by NHS employers can be found at:2010/2011 Agenda for Change staff and the evidence submitted by the Health Departments at:NHS Pay Review Body: Review for 2010
UNISON evidence to the NHS pay review body - UNISON member survey 2009
Joint Staff Side’s evidence to the NHSPRB for 2010-11
This report has now been submitted to the NHS Pay Review Body as part of the annual evidence gathering process whereby the Review Body assesses whether there is a case for seeking a remit from the Secretary of State for Health to reopen the multi-year pay deal, and will compliment the document that the NHS Trade Unions will submit as joint staff side evidence. The staff side document will give evidence on the wider economic context, labour market conditions, recruitment and retention and staff morale.
Both the staff side evidence (attached) and the UNISON survey analysis will support UNISON’s position that the multi-year deal for NHS staff should not be disturbed and that the pay rates scheduled to come into effect on 1 April for 2010 in the final year of the multi-year deal should remain as agreed.
The evidence submitted by NHS employers can be found at:2010/2011 Agenda for Change staff and the evidence submitted by the Health Departments at:NHS Pay Review Body: Review for 2010
UNISON evidence to the NHS pay review body - UNISON member survey 2009
Joint Staff Side’s evidence to the NHSPRB for 2010-11
Monday 14 September 2009
CALL FOR EVIDENCE ON THE FUTURE OF NURSING AND MIDWIFERY
The Commission on the Future of Nursing and Midwifery is calling for evidence.The Commission in particular would like to hear your views on:
1. What are the knowledge, skills and attributes that nurses / midwives require to take a central role in the design and delivery of 21st century services?
2. What would you like to see nurses and midwives doing more of and/or doing differently in the future - whether in people’s own homes, in the community or in hospital?
3. What might be preventing nurses and midwives from doing this now?
4. How can these barriers be overcome?
For more details on the Commission, what it is asking for and where to send your views please click on the link belowCall for evidence(click here)
FLU PANDEMIC
The union has set up a new mini website on swine flu at http://www.unison.org.uk/healthcare/swineflu.asp
Sunday 2 August 2009
CLEANERS CONFERENCE 2009
IF you work as a cleaner in the health service or represent cleaners, don’t miss UNISON’s Cleaners Conference this November.
This flagship event in UNISON’s ongoing campaign to recognise and celebrate the role that cleaners play in today’s NHS takes place at TUC Congress Centre in London on Tuesday 3 November 2009.
The conference will place under the spotlight all the key issues facing health service cleaning staff and their critical role in finding real solutions to tackling healthcare associated infections. Sessions will emphasise the practical steps for binging together the experience, skills and knowledge of cleaning staff to influence decision making positively at a local level. The conference will offer the stimulating views of expert speakers, but most importantly there will be plenty of chances for delegates to contribute to the debate in plenary sessions and a variety of workshops.We very much hope that you can join us.
The attached files provide publicity for the event through a poster and leaflet (a limited supply of colour copies can also be obtained by contacting Kevin Russell on k.russell@unison.co.uk) along with the registration form for attending the conference.
Completed forms must be returned to Dave Godson, UNISON Health Group, 1 Mabledon Place, London WC1H 9AJ, by 12 August 2009 to book your place
Monday 27 July 2009
Thursday 18 June 2009
Monday 18 May 2009
LEGAL BROCHURES
Link to a number of Legal Advice brochures from UNISON legal services http://www.nwasunison.com/nwas_legal.html
FLU PANDEMIC
Latest information on swine flu @ http://www.unison.org.uk/healthcare/pages_view.asp?did=8677
EQUAL PAY CLAIMS
INFORMATION FOR NORTHUMBRIA UNISON MEMBERS – STEFAN CROSS SOLICITORS LETTERS
A number of members have approached us having received a letter from Stefan Cross Solicitors about the Equal Pay claims which they had lodged through him.
NORTHUMBRIA HEALTHCARE UNISON cannot advise you on how to respond to this letter – Stefan Cross Solicitors is your legal representative and not UNISON – but you may find the following information helpful.
Q1. Stefan Cross Solicitors says that the unions supported the employers in the Hartley case which means that my case was lost for the period after Agenda for Change. Why did my union do this?
A1. We did not support the employers. The union was attacked by Stefan Cross Solicitors, who lodged Tribunal cases against us. UNISON members had voted twice in ballots for the introduction of Agenda for Change and we wanted to ensure that the agreement was maintained We defended the union and the agreement that our members had signed up for. Our advice was that Agenda for Change is a proper and robust job evaluation scheme and our view was that the Hartley case would cause unnecessary delay in looking at any potential cases pre-Agenda for Change. This has proven to be correct.
UNISON has always considered the claim misconceived on the basis of the advice we have received from 2005, which is that such a claim had no reasonable prospects of success. We have, of course, given all of our members in the NHS the chance to submit a claim for the period before Agenda for Change was introduced and we are pursuing those claims now – though they were all put on hold for a very long period because of the Hartley case that Stefan Cross Solicitors brought.
Q2. Stefan Cross Solicitors says that I can seek alternative representation – will UNISON represent me?
A2.NORTHUMBRIA HEALTHCARE UNISON recognises the very difficult situation members have been put in because of this letter from Stefan Cross Solicitors. We are assessing the position but it is likely that we will consider taking up any pre-AFC part of your claim, if one was lodged by Stefan Cross Solicitors, subject to our usual criteria.
Q3. What are your “usual criteria”?
A3. We consider all tribunal claims on the basis of whether or not we believe there are reasonable prospects of success. We will also need you to confirm that no other solicitor is acting for you before we consider your case. We do not make any deduction from any compensation you may be awarded.
Q4. Why did I have to return my form to Stefan Cross Solicitors by 13th May?
A4. The date for return of the options form was set by Stefan Cross Solicitors and not by UNISON – it is linked to the time limit for registering an appeal against the Hartley Tribunal decision and not to continuing your claim for the period before Agenda For Change. UNISON only became aware of the letter that Stefan Cross Solicitors had sent out to members on 11 May.
Q5. Stefan Cross Solicitors has given me 3 options – which should I choose?
A5. As you are a client of Stefan Cross Solicitors we cannot advise you which option to choose – you should read his letter carefully and decide which option to go for. However we can tell you that if you wish to continue your Equal Pay Claim for the pre AFC period you should not agree to withdraw your claim.
Q6. What happens next if I decide to go for alternative representation?
A6. If you ask UNISON to support your case we will refer it to Thompsons, who are already dealing with other claims against your trust for UNISON members. UNISON does not charge any legal fees for this.
If you decide to go to another solicitor, UNISON will not be responsible for any of the legal fees you may be charged.
Q7. What happens if I change solicitors?
A7. You will need to authorise Stefan Cross Solicitors to send their file to your new solicitor. If you ask UNISON to take on your case this will be Thompsons, who will assess your case to see that it has a reasonable prospect of success. We can only do this once you have decided to change your solicitor.
Q8. What if I want to continue to challenge Agenda for Change and the Hartley decision?
A8. You will have to instruct other solicitors immediately as outlined in the letter from Stefan Cross Solicitors. UNISON will not support an appeal against the Hartley decision for the reasons given in A1 above. You will need to make your decision on this on the basis of the advice in the letter from Stefan Cross Solicitors.
Q9. Will I be charged anything by Stefan Cross Solicitors for withdrawing my claim or changing solicitor?
A9. As Stefan Cross Solicitors has terminated the Conditional Fee arrangement with you he cannot level any penalty charges which may have been incorporated in his agreement with you. You should not pay any monies over to Stefan Cross Solicitors.
Q10. I’ve had this letter but I’m not a union member – what can I do?
A10. You should contact your local NORTHUMBRIA HEALTHCARE UNISON representative for a UNISON membership form now and we can look at your case.
A number of members have approached us having received a letter from Stefan Cross Solicitors about the Equal Pay claims which they had lodged through him.
NORTHUMBRIA HEALTHCARE UNISON cannot advise you on how to respond to this letter – Stefan Cross Solicitors is your legal representative and not UNISON – but you may find the following information helpful.
Q1. Stefan Cross Solicitors says that the unions supported the employers in the Hartley case which means that my case was lost for the period after Agenda for Change. Why did my union do this?
A1. We did not support the employers. The union was attacked by Stefan Cross Solicitors, who lodged Tribunal cases against us. UNISON members had voted twice in ballots for the introduction of Agenda for Change and we wanted to ensure that the agreement was maintained We defended the union and the agreement that our members had signed up for. Our advice was that Agenda for Change is a proper and robust job evaluation scheme and our view was that the Hartley case would cause unnecessary delay in looking at any potential cases pre-Agenda for Change. This has proven to be correct.
UNISON has always considered the claim misconceived on the basis of the advice we have received from 2005, which is that such a claim had no reasonable prospects of success. We have, of course, given all of our members in the NHS the chance to submit a claim for the period before Agenda for Change was introduced and we are pursuing those claims now – though they were all put on hold for a very long period because of the Hartley case that Stefan Cross Solicitors brought.
Q2. Stefan Cross Solicitors says that I can seek alternative representation – will UNISON represent me?
A2.NORTHUMBRIA HEALTHCARE UNISON recognises the very difficult situation members have been put in because of this letter from Stefan Cross Solicitors. We are assessing the position but it is likely that we will consider taking up any pre-AFC part of your claim, if one was lodged by Stefan Cross Solicitors, subject to our usual criteria.
Q3. What are your “usual criteria”?
A3. We consider all tribunal claims on the basis of whether or not we believe there are reasonable prospects of success. We will also need you to confirm that no other solicitor is acting for you before we consider your case. We do not make any deduction from any compensation you may be awarded.
Q4. Why did I have to return my form to Stefan Cross Solicitors by 13th May?
A4. The date for return of the options form was set by Stefan Cross Solicitors and not by UNISON – it is linked to the time limit for registering an appeal against the Hartley Tribunal decision and not to continuing your claim for the period before Agenda For Change. UNISON only became aware of the letter that Stefan Cross Solicitors had sent out to members on 11 May.
Q5. Stefan Cross Solicitors has given me 3 options – which should I choose?
A5. As you are a client of Stefan Cross Solicitors we cannot advise you which option to choose – you should read his letter carefully and decide which option to go for. However we can tell you that if you wish to continue your Equal Pay Claim for the pre AFC period you should not agree to withdraw your claim.
Q6. What happens next if I decide to go for alternative representation?
A6. If you ask UNISON to support your case we will refer it to Thompsons, who are already dealing with other claims against your trust for UNISON members. UNISON does not charge any legal fees for this.
If you decide to go to another solicitor, UNISON will not be responsible for any of the legal fees you may be charged.
Q7. What happens if I change solicitors?
A7. You will need to authorise Stefan Cross Solicitors to send their file to your new solicitor. If you ask UNISON to take on your case this will be Thompsons, who will assess your case to see that it has a reasonable prospect of success. We can only do this once you have decided to change your solicitor.
Q8. What if I want to continue to challenge Agenda for Change and the Hartley decision?
A8. You will have to instruct other solicitors immediately as outlined in the letter from Stefan Cross Solicitors. UNISON will not support an appeal against the Hartley decision for the reasons given in A1 above. You will need to make your decision on this on the basis of the advice in the letter from Stefan Cross Solicitors.
Q9. Will I be charged anything by Stefan Cross Solicitors for withdrawing my claim or changing solicitor?
A9. As Stefan Cross Solicitors has terminated the Conditional Fee arrangement with you he cannot level any penalty charges which may have been incorporated in his agreement with you. You should not pay any monies over to Stefan Cross Solicitors.
Q10. I’ve had this letter but I’m not a union member – what can I do?
A10. You should contact your local NORTHUMBRIA HEALTHCARE UNISON representative for a UNISON membership form now and we can look at your case.
Thursday 23 April 2009
NURSING MATTERS NEWSLETTER
A new edition of Nursing Matters newsletter has been published. Copies are available from our North Tyneside Office.
Now available on line at http://www.unison.org.uk/file/Final%20draft.pdf
Now available on line at http://www.unison.org.uk/file/Final%20draft.pdf
UNISON AND NURSING TIMES LAUNCH EXCITING NEW PARTNERSHIP
A unique partnership between UNISON and the Nursing Times has been launched, to expand and enhance the range of services and information available to the union's nursing members.
A new UNISON/NT microsite is now live on the magazine's website.And new pages on the UNISON website will give nursing members increased access to clinical and research information to inform and develop their practise.
Readers of the NT and visitors to its website will see the major role that UNISON plays as the leading health union.
UNISON national nursing sector chair Ann Moses said: "I am really excited about the link up with NT and know that it will make a real difference to our members. I have always been a member of UNISON and have always read the NT. Bringing the two together in this way makes sense."
UNISON will be publishing regular news items and articles in the Nursing Times magazine and on its website, tackling important issues that affect nurses, midwives, health visitors and healthcare assistants.The partnership will also develop further activities such as joint campaigning and research projects making the most of the two organisations' shared values.
UNISON members have a fantastic opportunity to subscribe to the magazine at a special discounted rate, with a sliding scale of discounts of up to 40%. For further details, click here.
A new UNISON/NT microsite is now live on the magazine's website.And new pages on the UNISON website will give nursing members increased access to clinical and research information to inform and develop their practise.
Readers of the NT and visitors to its website will see the major role that UNISON plays as the leading health union.
UNISON national nursing sector chair Ann Moses said: "I am really excited about the link up with NT and know that it will make a real difference to our members. I have always been a member of UNISON and have always read the NT. Bringing the two together in this way makes sense."
UNISON will be publishing regular news items and articles in the Nursing Times magazine and on its website, tackling important issues that affect nurses, midwives, health visitors and healthcare assistants.The partnership will also develop further activities such as joint campaigning and research projects making the most of the two organisations' shared values.
UNISON members have a fantastic opportunity to subscribe to the magazine at a special discounted rate, with a sliding scale of discounts of up to 40%. For further details, click here.
Wednesday 22 April 2009
MANAGERS IN PARTNERSHIP
The first issue of MiP's new magazine Healthcare Manager is available from our office at North Tyneside.
Website at http://www.miphealth.org.uk/
Website at http://www.miphealth.org.uk/
PTB HEALTHCARE SCIENCE NEWS
The latest issue of our PTB newsletter is not yet available online. Printed copies are available from our office at North Tyneside.
ADMIN & CLERICAL NEWS
The latest Administrative & Clerical Staff newsletter is available a http://www.unison.org.uk/file/18150.pdf
ANCILLARY STAFF NEWSLETTER
For the latest Ancillary Staff newsletter go to http://www.unison.org.uk/file/18046.pdf
Sunday 12 April 2009
HEALTHCARE ON LINE NEWSLETTER APRIL 2009
Build Your Union
Everyone benefits when everyone is in the union. Encourage your colleagues to join so we can all stand together for a better working life.
UNISON @ Northumbria Healthcare Trust
Northumbria Healthcare UNISON has over 2500 members in the Trust, including
Admin & Clerical
Allied Health Professionals
Ancillary
Craft & Maintenance
Healthcare Science
Managers
Nursing
Professional Partners
Association of Pharmacy Technicians
British Association of Occupation Therapists
British Society of Medical Secretaries
College of Operating Department Practitioners
Managers in Partnership
UNISON TO ASK TRUST FOR AN EXTRA DAYSHOLIDAY
Unison is to ask the Trust for recognition for staff in coping with the winter pressures, an extra day holiday for this year or a one off bonus payment.
We will advise the Trust that this would be a way of rewarding all staff for all the hard work they have put in regarding both the winter pressures and for helping the Trust meet its targets.
Legal services
UNISON provides the broadest range of legal help to union members in the UK. We offer advice and assistance not just with work issues, but for you and your family outside the workplace too.
Employment Problems
UNISON boasts the largest number of local union reps, branches and officers in the UK. They're your first port of call for advice and support with problems at work. Where necessary they can refer your case to the regional office or UNISON's specialist in-house lawyers and trade union solicitors.
Injuries and Accidents at work
UNISON has won more than £350 million in compensation for members involved in work-related personal injuries. This includes assaults, industrial diseases and accidents at work, on the way to or from work or on union business. Contact UNISONdirect on 0845 355 0845 for more details.
Accidents outside work
UNISON's personal injury service covers any accident which happens to you and your family outside the workplace, including:
· Road traffic accidents
· Accidents in the street
· Accidents while on holiday
· Disease cases
· Slipping and tripping accidents.
· Holiday accident claims
If you've had an accident on the job or outside work during the last three years you may be entitled to compensation. Your family may also qualify for injuries outside work. In case of accident or injury you can phone UNISONdirect on 0845 355 0845.
Free initial legal advice
UNISON members can get free initial legal advice on any matter not related to work from UNISON's solicitors. This service entitles you to receive a 30-minute telephone interview.
The service does not apply to advice on a legal action that you are.lready pursuing or cover Inheritance Tax issues. Phone UNISONdirect on 0845 355 0845 for more details
Work tenancy problems
You may be eligible for advice from UNISON's solicitors if you need to live in particular accommodation as part of your job or your employer has given you accommodation as part of the job.
Wills and conveyancing
Members can use our free wills service and are eligible for cut price conveyancing. Phone UNISONdirect on 0845 355 0845 for more details.
Criminal cases
Members get free legal represention if they face criminal charges arising out of their work. We can also represent members for road traffic offences if your job is at risk should you be convicted. You must contact your UNISON branch if you need to use this service. If you have any problem please phone UNISONdirect on 0845 355 0845.
Immigration
UNISON can provide advice or represent members who experience immigration problems that threaten their employment.
Medical negligence
UNISON offers a free initial screening service for members who have been affected by medical negligence.
Everyone benefits when everyone is in the union. Encourage your colleagues to join so we can all stand together for a better working life.
UNISON @ Northumbria Healthcare Trust
Northumbria Healthcare UNISON has over 2500 members in the Trust, including
Admin & Clerical
Allied Health Professionals
Ancillary
Craft & Maintenance
Healthcare Science
Managers
Nursing
Professional Partners
Association of Pharmacy Technicians
British Association of Occupation Therapists
British Society of Medical Secretaries
College of Operating Department Practitioners
Managers in Partnership
UNISON TO ASK TRUST FOR AN EXTRA DAYSHOLIDAY
Unison is to ask the Trust for recognition for staff in coping with the winter pressures, an extra day holiday for this year or a one off bonus payment.
We will advise the Trust that this would be a way of rewarding all staff for all the hard work they have put in regarding both the winter pressures and for helping the Trust meet its targets.
Legal services
UNISON provides the broadest range of legal help to union members in the UK. We offer advice and assistance not just with work issues, but for you and your family outside the workplace too.
Employment Problems
UNISON boasts the largest number of local union reps, branches and officers in the UK. They're your first port of call for advice and support with problems at work. Where necessary they can refer your case to the regional office or UNISON's specialist in-house lawyers and trade union solicitors.
Injuries and Accidents at work
UNISON has won more than £350 million in compensation for members involved in work-related personal injuries. This includes assaults, industrial diseases and accidents at work, on the way to or from work or on union business. Contact UNISONdirect on 0845 355 0845 for more details.
Accidents outside work
UNISON's personal injury service covers any accident which happens to you and your family outside the workplace, including:
· Road traffic accidents
· Accidents in the street
· Accidents while on holiday
· Disease cases
· Slipping and tripping accidents.
· Holiday accident claims
If you've had an accident on the job or outside work during the last three years you may be entitled to compensation. Your family may also qualify for injuries outside work. In case of accident or injury you can phone UNISONdirect on 0845 355 0845.
Free initial legal advice
UNISON members can get free initial legal advice on any matter not related to work from UNISON's solicitors. This service entitles you to receive a 30-minute telephone interview.
The service does not apply to advice on a legal action that you are.lready pursuing or cover Inheritance Tax issues. Phone UNISONdirect on 0845 355 0845 for more details
Work tenancy problems
You may be eligible for advice from UNISON's solicitors if you need to live in particular accommodation as part of your job or your employer has given you accommodation as part of the job.
Wills and conveyancing
Members can use our free wills service and are eligible for cut price conveyancing. Phone UNISONdirect on 0845 355 0845 for more details.
Criminal cases
Members get free legal represention if they face criminal charges arising out of their work. We can also represent members for road traffic offences if your job is at risk should you be convicted. You must contact your UNISON branch if you need to use this service. If you have any problem please phone UNISONdirect on 0845 355 0845.
Immigration
UNISON can provide advice or represent members who experience immigration problems that threaten their employment.
Medical negligence
UNISON offers a free initial screening service for members who have been affected by medical negligence.
Monday 6 April 2009
TRUST WINS EQUAL PAY CASE
Collective negotiating for equal pay in the health service has been vindicated after the Newcastle employment tribunal threw out a legal challenge from no win, no fee lawyers to Agenda for Change.
Agenda for Change is the NHS pay system introduced in 2004 to address unequal pay in the health service, after years of negotiation between employers and health unions led by UNISON.But in the case of Hartley v Northumbria Healthcare NHS Trust, a firm of no win, no fee lawyers sought to challenge the whole of the new pay system on a number of grounds, claiming that it breached both the Equal Pay Act and the Sex Discrimination Act.
The Newcastle tribunal has rejected that challenge, on all the grounds raised. It noted that it was open to unions to pursue individual equal pay claims through the courts or employment tribunals – but its current experience of claims shows that "it could have taken a period of several years for those claims to come to fruition. The outcome might have been that some employees would have obtained equal pay; others would not.”UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis also welcomed the tribunal’s decision, saying: “This shows it is possible to strive for the goal of dealing with equal pay using collective means.
Full document @ http://www.nhsla.com/NR/rdonlyres/75F6423E-5466-43ED-B01E-51FFA0B18F7E/0/HartleyvNorthumbriaHealthcare.doc
Agenda for Change is the NHS pay system introduced in 2004 to address unequal pay in the health service, after years of negotiation between employers and health unions led by UNISON.But in the case of Hartley v Northumbria Healthcare NHS Trust, a firm of no win, no fee lawyers sought to challenge the whole of the new pay system on a number of grounds, claiming that it breached both the Equal Pay Act and the Sex Discrimination Act.
The Newcastle tribunal has rejected that challenge, on all the grounds raised. It noted that it was open to unions to pursue individual equal pay claims through the courts or employment tribunals – but its current experience of claims shows that "it could have taken a period of several years for those claims to come to fruition. The outcome might have been that some employees would have obtained equal pay; others would not.”UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis also welcomed the tribunal’s decision, saying: “This shows it is possible to strive for the goal of dealing with equal pay using collective means.
Full document @ http://www.nhsla.com/NR/rdonlyres/75F6423E-5466-43ED-B01E-51FFA0B18F7E/0/HartleyvNorthumbriaHealthcare.doc
Wednesday 25 March 2009
STAFF SURVEY REVEALS LACK OF TIME AND STAFF HAMPERS PATIENT CARE
UNISON, the UK’s largest health union, has today (25 March) called for a boost in health staff numbers in the wake of the latest NHS staff survey. The survey reveals that although 90% of staff feel they make a difference to patients, they don’t have enough time or people to do their jobs properly - with 66% of staff working overtime.This year’s NHS staff survey does reveal welcome improvements in hand washing and infection control; however there has been little progress in reducing the level of violence inflicted on staff while the number of work-related injuries is still unacceptably high.The survey points to good working relationships between staff and supportive working between staff and their immediate managers. However, communication between senior management and staff is woefully inadequate with 74% reporting they are not listened to, or consulted on, important decisions or ways to improve the service. Karen Jennings, UNISON Head of Health, said:“The staff survey is a good barometer of the way that the NHS is running. Inadequate staffing levels were at the heart of recent critical reports slamming patient care at Mid Staffordshire NHS Trust and in the Birmingham Children’s Hospital. NHS Employers need to listen to staff and must act when they are told they do not have enough time or people to do their jobs properly and deliver quality patient care.“The recent revelations of poor practice in Mid Staffs also underline the importance of effective communication between staff and senior managers. The Darzi review identified the need to develop leadership among NHS staff and for teams to work together to set and measure clear objectives. The whole health team needs to be involved in making NHS services better for patients and with 74% of staff reporting this is not happening, there is clearly a gap that needs to be closed.“What is encouraging to see is that staff are less afraid to report errors, near misses or incidents. This year’s survey shows that 96% of staff witnessing an error reported it. “The number of staff who suffer violence at the hands of patients or relatives which is still shamefully high. The overall figure of 12% is shocking enough, but for ambulance workers that figure is more than double with 27% coming under attack. The Employers must take action to protect their workforce and UNISON would like to see more prosecutions and tough penalties for those found guilty of assault
UNISON Welfare News
The latest issue of UNISON Welfare's newsletter. Packed full of information, case stories and tips on how we are supporting members in difficult times
http://www.unison.org.uk/file/B4328.pdf
UNISON Welfare Web Site http://www.unison.org.uk/welfare/index.asp
http://www.unison.org.uk/file/B4328.pdf
UNISON Welfare Web Site http://www.unison.org.uk/welfare/index.asp
LEGAL SERVICES
Northumbria Healthcare UNISON provides the broadest range of legal help to union members in the UK. We offer advice and assistance not just with work issues, but for you and your family outside the workplace too.
http://www.unison.org.uk/benefits/legal.asp
http://www.unison.org.uk/benefits/legal.asp
Pay freeze rumours quashed
False news stories are circulating in the national papers and on news items that the Department of Health is seeking to reopen the three year pay deal and impose a pay freeze.UNISON has sought clarification directly from the secretary of state.Please see his statement below which is self explanatory:Health secretary Alan Johnson said: "I would like to reassure NHS staff across the country that we will honour the three-year pay deal in full. "It is a fair and balanced agreement which provides stability for the NHS and its staff. There is no question of it being reopened"
http://www.unison.org.uk/acrobat/A3538a.pdf
http://www.unison.org.uk/acrobat/A3538a.pdf
Tuesday 24 March 2009
March Newsletter On Line Version
Healthcare March 2009
Build Your Union
Everyone benefits when everyone is in the union. Encourage your colleagues to join so we can all stand together for a better working life.
UNISON @ Northumbria Healthcare Trust
Northumbria Healthcare UNISON has over 2500 members in the Trust, including
Admin & Clerical
Allied Health Professionals
Ancillary
Craft & Maintenance
Healthcare Science
Managers
Nursing
Professional Partners
Association of Pharmacy Technicians
British Association of Occupation Therapists
British Society of Medical Secretaries
College of Operating Department Practitioners
Managers in Partnership
SOME GOOD NEWS FOR A CHANGE
After discussion with union representatives the Trust has agreed not to implement a 2.75% increase in car parking charges.
The increase that was due to come in to force on the first of April this year will not be applied to staff and visitor car parking fees.
While most members interviewed welcomed this move some said the Trust should go further and abolish car parking charges altogether.
UNISON Book Club20% discount on OUP publicationsUNISON has teamed up with Oxford University Press to provide UNISON healthcare members with an exclusive offer to purchase OUP publications at a 20% discount through the UNISON Book Club. To explore the books available through the OUP catalogue and place an order, go to http://www.oup.co.uk/sale/unison/
INDEPENDENT SAFEGUARDING AUTHORITY
The Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) will come into being in October 2009. The ISA will run a vetting and barring scheme replacing the Protection of Vulnerable Adults (POVA) scheme and the Protection of Children Act (POCA) for all those working with children and vulnerable adults. Eventually all staff working with children and vulnerable adults will have to register with the ISA.
UNISON Professional Services Unit has produced a briefing for members.
UNISON will also be holding a seminar on the ISA scheme later this year.
UNION VICTORY FOR DENTAL NURSES
All dental nurses have to pay an annual registration fee of £96 to the General Dental Council, and NHS Direct have now agreed to pay £38 to all its Band 4 dental nurses to help them meet the fees.
More senior nurses on Band 5 and above already receive the payment, and UNISON national officer Michael Walker said the deal was a major breakthrough in the union's campaign to win all dental nurses the annual £38 payment.
'The recognition by NHS Direct of the UNISON dental nurse claim is most welcome, and UNISON hopes that other NHS trusts will now follow suit and recognise the key role of NHS dental nurses.'
LIVING WELL WITH DEMENTIA
The government has published its strategy on dementia care titled "Living well with dementia". Its recommendations included improving public and professional awareness, a joint commissioning strategy and improved assessment & regulation.
Copies of the document and UNISON’s response are available at http://www.unison.org.uk/healthcare/nursing/pages_view.asp?did=8287
THE UNION FOR ALL NORTHUMBRIA HEALTHCARE STAFF
Printed & Published by Northumbria Healthcare UNISON, UNISON Office, Wansbeck General Hospital.
UNISON direct 0845 355 0845 www.unison.org.uk www.healthunion.blogspot.com
Build Your Union
Everyone benefits when everyone is in the union. Encourage your colleagues to join so we can all stand together for a better working life.
UNISON @ Northumbria Healthcare Trust
Northumbria Healthcare UNISON has over 2500 members in the Trust, including
Admin & Clerical
Allied Health Professionals
Ancillary
Craft & Maintenance
Healthcare Science
Managers
Nursing
Professional Partners
Association of Pharmacy Technicians
British Association of Occupation Therapists
British Society of Medical Secretaries
College of Operating Department Practitioners
Managers in Partnership
SOME GOOD NEWS FOR A CHANGE
After discussion with union representatives the Trust has agreed not to implement a 2.75% increase in car parking charges.
The increase that was due to come in to force on the first of April this year will not be applied to staff and visitor car parking fees.
While most members interviewed welcomed this move some said the Trust should go further and abolish car parking charges altogether.
UNISON Book Club20% discount on OUP publicationsUNISON has teamed up with Oxford University Press to provide UNISON healthcare members with an exclusive offer to purchase OUP publications at a 20% discount through the UNISON Book Club. To explore the books available through the OUP catalogue and place an order, go to http://www.oup.co.uk/sale/unison/
INDEPENDENT SAFEGUARDING AUTHORITY
The Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) will come into being in October 2009. The ISA will run a vetting and barring scheme replacing the Protection of Vulnerable Adults (POVA) scheme and the Protection of Children Act (POCA) for all those working with children and vulnerable adults. Eventually all staff working with children and vulnerable adults will have to register with the ISA.
UNISON Professional Services Unit has produced a briefing for members.
UNISON will also be holding a seminar on the ISA scheme later this year.
UNION VICTORY FOR DENTAL NURSES
All dental nurses have to pay an annual registration fee of £96 to the General Dental Council, and NHS Direct have now agreed to pay £38 to all its Band 4 dental nurses to help them meet the fees.
More senior nurses on Band 5 and above already receive the payment, and UNISON national officer Michael Walker said the deal was a major breakthrough in the union's campaign to win all dental nurses the annual £38 payment.
'The recognition by NHS Direct of the UNISON dental nurse claim is most welcome, and UNISON hopes that other NHS trusts will now follow suit and recognise the key role of NHS dental nurses.'
LIVING WELL WITH DEMENTIA
The government has published its strategy on dementia care titled "Living well with dementia". Its recommendations included improving public and professional awareness, a joint commissioning strategy and improved assessment & regulation.
Copies of the document and UNISON’s response are available at http://www.unison.org.uk/healthcare/nursing/pages_view.asp?did=8287
THE UNION FOR ALL NORTHUMBRIA HEALTHCARE STAFF
Printed & Published by Northumbria Healthcare UNISON, UNISON Office, Wansbeck General Hospital.
UNISON direct 0845 355 0845 www.unison.org.uk www.healthunion.blogspot.com
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