I’ve been an active member of PCS and its predecessor union for more than 25 years; and rep for more than 10 years. I’m currently serving as a member on the GEC; I’m also the Equality Rep for my Branch and the Southwest Region. I am the DWP Group Liaison rep to National Black Members Committee.

As part of Left Unity, I am proud of my record of standing up for members and the successes I have helped to achieve locally and as a part of the GEC.  In DWP we have been the ones leading the campaign which has kept members safe during the coronavirus pandemic, demanding safer working in offices, more IT equipment delivered to members faster in order to work safely from home. Our Left Unity led GEC pushed for risk assessments for our BAME staff and our Black members who are proven to be at a heightened risk of contracting coronavirus. Left Unity has a proven record on equality and is always at forefront in the fight against racism and rising Islamophobia.

I am proud to be in Left Unity under whose leadership the GEC and national union has been relentless in fighting for more staffing, better terms and conditions as well as working with the national union on fair pay and protecting our pensions. Our consultative ballot in the safety dispute gained valuable concessions to keep members safe again it was the Left Unity leadership that set the agenda forcing the DWP to rethink their plans for extending opening hours in UC Service Centres and Job Centres, our work continues to keep members and all staff safe.

Reps from across the union, regardless of political alignment, have worked together throughout the coronavirus crisis and delivered for members which is to everyone’s credit. I am looking to build on this activity and to increase all members’ involvement and activism

It has been Left Unity leadership however which set the agenda at discussions with management, that delivered the consultative ballot which forced the employer to think again about extending opening hours in Job Centres and UC Service Centres in December, and who continue to demand action from the Government over pay. 

I am determined to help a Left Unity led PCS secure more for members; better pay, decent pensions, our aims are simple, fairness, respect and equal treatment in the workplace for all. It saddens me to see our members having to resort to 2nd jobs and food banks to survive We deserve far better; I am proud to work alongside leading comrades in Left Unity at DWP Group level to continue to pursue our shared aims.

I am seeking election to the DWP GEC as Group Assistant Secretary this year, to continue to fight for fairness for members and in society, and to continue to fight for our member’s rights and support my Left Unity GEC comrades

Full Left Unity DWP nomination list