I am asking for your support in the upcoming PCS DWP GEC elections for the position of Group Assistant Secretary. For more than a decade, I have proudly represented PCS members at every level of our union. I have served as Branch Organiser, ULR, Branch Secretary, and now as DWP Branch Chair, Assistant Secretary on the DWP GEC, Vice Chair of the PCS NWRC and NEC member. These roles have never been about titles, they reflect my ongoing commitment to listening to members, fighting for fairness, and building a strong, democratic union rooted in working‑class solidarity.

The recent statutory ballot in DWP has once again shown what our members already know, DWP is in deep crisis. Chronic low pay, wage compression, outsourced contracts  and years of under‑investment have pushed tens of thousands of staff to breaking point. Many of our members are struggling to pay bills, relying on in‑work benefits, and having to turn to foodbanks. Around 25,000 staff are set to drop below the National Living Wage again from April 2026—something PCS has long warned is unacceptable in one of the largest government departments in the country.

Despite clear evidence that the department needs urgent funding, DWP leadership refused to request additional funding to address the systemic pay issues. Major changes to disability benefits are being rolled out without the staffing, resources or safeguards needed to protect workers and claimants. Our members deserve better than this cycle of pressure, neglect and empty promises.

If re‑elected, alongside Left Unity comrades, we will continue to fight for:

1. Fair Pay and Pay Restoration
Ending poverty pay

2. Increased Staffing and Safe Workloads
Proper investment in staffing levels across all areas of DWP

3. Hybrid Working for All
A fair, consistent hybrid working offer with no exceptions and no postcode lottery.

4. No More Office Closures
Defending jobs, communities and essential public services.

5. Ending Outsourcing
Bringing work back in‑house and ending failed outsourcing models.

6. Equality at the Heart of Our Work
Ensuring dignity, fairness and protection for all PCS members.

To deliver real change, we need a strong, united Left Unity GEC.

PLEASE VOTE FOR THE LEFT UNITY CANDIDATES BELOW:
President – Grant
Vice Presidents – Cavanagh, McDonough, Pope, Shafiq
Assistant Secretaries – Burke, Corcoran, Cahill, McFarlane, McGachey, Morton, Perry
Organiser – Byers
Treasurer – Edwards
Editor – Kennedy
GEC – Ahmed, Ferraro, Getton, Jackson, Lothian, McCafferty, Mack, Meller, Mulcahy, Pealing, Revell, Sherriff, Simmons‑Robertson, Smith, Thomas, Westgarth, Wilson