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Local Government Pension Scheme - Industrial Dispute
Frequently Asked Questions - answers for Devon County Branch Members
- Do I have to take strike action?
- Will I get paid?
- Will I get strike pay from UNISON?
- Am I legally protected?
- Are there any exemptions?
- How do I get involved in picketing?
- What does picketing involve?
- I'm a new member of UNISON who has joined since the ballot. Can I take strike action?
- Can I take leave on the day of action?
Q. Do I have to take strike action?
A. In a democratic ballot, 80% of UNISON members in the Local Government Pension Scheme who responded, voted to take strike action about the threat to remove the rule of 85 with minimal protection. All such members should feel bound by this decision and heed UNISON's call to take strike action.
Q. Will I get paid?
A. Your employer will deduct pay for any days you take strike action.
Q. Will I get strike pay from UNISON?
A. For short periods of all-out action, no strike payment will be made by UNISON nationally. But Devon County Branch has its own Industrial Action Fund. If you are part of a group asked to take selective action, strike pay will be granted. Also, if you assist with action, e.g. picketing, or are likely to suffer hardship as a result of losing pay, you will be able to make a request to the Devon County Branch Fund. Contact the Branch Office and ask for an application form.
Q. Am I legally protected?
A. There is no legal right to strike in the UK, but there is protection from unfair dismissal within eight weeks of the action starting.
Q. Are there any exemptions?
A. For the strike to be effective, there can be no general exemptions. Exemptions where there would otherwise be a direct danger to life and limb of any person will be considered.
We also traditionally exempt those who would suffer long-term financial loss, ie employees in the last year of service who are in a pension scheme; pregnant women who have notified their employer of the expected date of birth; or people whose state benefits may be affected if they take part in strike action.
Q. How do I get involved in picketing?
Your Branch will make arrangements for picketing workplaces. Please contact the Branch Office. We welcome your support.
Q. What does picketing involve?
Approaching any person attempting to enter the building and explaining the purpose of the industrial action, perhaps by giving them a leaflet. You cannot stop them or compel them to listen.
Those workers who wish to cross the picket line (maybe non-members or members of unions not in the dispute) may be asked not to undertake any duties or responsibilities other than their own.
Q. I'm a new member of UNISON who has joined since the ballot. Can I take strike action?
Yes, you will get the same protection as your colleagues.
Can I take leave on the day of action?
Taking annual leave on strike days is not regarded as participating in the action. If it is unavoidable for personal reasons, you may wish to consider donating a day's pay to the strike fund. Some employers may refuse requests for leave on strike days.
Remember not to email industrial action details/information across your employer's intranet.
Moira Macdonald
Branch Secretary