ABUSE - It's NOT part of the job - June 2021
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Reward in 2021 Tackling race issues Shift in workstyles
P3 P7 P12-13
T H E M A G A Z I N E F O R M E M B E R S O F A C C O R D
Issue 1 2021
ABUSE...
It’s NOT part of the job PAGES
What’s been done to protect frontline staff from abusive customers 10&11
WELCOME FROM GED
Help us to grow back better
We’re still regularly talking to senior leaders in Lloyds
Banking Group on all matters relating to the pandemic.
Despite the success of the vaccination programme,
the restrictions are lasting longer than anybody
thought. The impact on our mental health will likely be
with us for years to come.
As will the economic consequences which are difficult
to assess. Just how the economy recovers as furlough
and other Government support is withdrawn creates
real uncertainties.
However, Accord members have already been
impacted by a pay review for 2021 that’s now below
inflation and by the group’s decision not to pay any
Group Performance Share (bonus) award in March.
Although the summer is still ahead of us, discussions
about the 2022 pay review are already on our minds.
We’ve been making the case to LBG that it needs to set
a profit target for 2021 that is realistically achievable in
the current environment so there is a strong chance of So I end with an ask. If you have a colleague who is
a GPS award being paid in March 2022. not a member of Accord or Unite, tell them about the
Our work on job security issues has been intensive important work we do on their behalf and ask them to
in the first half of the year and we’ve been actively join you in supporting Accord.
seeking a better redundancy deal for people We’ll give them free membership for three months and
transferred into LBG, to protect staff from compulsory donate £10 to the Trussell Trust to support foodbanks
redundancy in the event of branch closures, to simplify for every new member who joins us before the end of
the group’s grading structure and we’re heavily July.
engaged on future ways of working. Thank you for supporting your union through these
The past 18 months has been difficult for Accord difficult and unprecedented times.
as an independent union. We’ve continued to lose
members who have left the group through resignation,
redundancy or retirement but we’ve not had as many
new members as we need join us due to the restrictions
in place, curtailed recruitment in the group and the
fact that many of our reps have been working from
home.
3 MONTHS FREE AND A £10 DONATION
As Ged mentioned above, there’s supports a network of 1,200 food
a special offer for new members banks. Just use the code 3FREE
and a bonus for any member who when signing up.
recruits somebody new. So if you think we’ve done a good
As well as receiving three months’ job, why not let a non-member
free membership worth around know about the benefits of joining
£30, the union will also donate £10 us and help fight hunger in the UK.
to the Trussell Trust, a charity that
2 My Accord June 2021
Reward in 2021
A year not for repeating
The proposals for the April 2021 Pay Review were first
published on 17 December 2020.
Accord members were invited to take part in an
independently scrutinised ballot on them in January.
The ballot scrutineer, Civica, reported that 31.6% of
eligible Accord members in LBG voted in the ballot.
Of those, 71% answered ‘yes’ to the question: Do you Said Ged: “Unsurprisingly, a significant number of
support the union signing an agreement to implement those opposing the pay offer gave the reason for their
the proposals? disappointment (to say the least) with the lack of a
Accord signed an agreement to implement the Group Performance Share Award (bonus) for 2020”.
proposals with effect from 1 April but, with rising When the group announced its results for 2020, there
inflation reported since then (the Consumer Price was a further wave of reaction from members who felt
Index at 2.1% for April reported on 16 June), virtually that there should have been some GPS Award because,
everybody in LBG will experience a fall in the real value despite the challenges of a global pandemic, the
of their salaries this year. group delivered an underlying profit of £2.2bn and a
This builds pressure for a meaningful outcome for the statutory profit before tax of £1.2bn.
2022 Review when talks between Accord and Unite and However, the group did not achieve 80% of its profit
LBG start later this year. target for the year and this is the ‘hurdle’ built into the
In the ballot, around 2,500 members made comments GPS scheme rules.
about the pay offer. Accord analysed these and shared The union has shared members’ feedback and sought
them with LBG as an ‘appetiser’ for 2022. reassurance that the profit target for 2021 reflects
the realities of the pandemic and the economic
environment. The GPS Award pool is 5% of group profits
The results for the first (subject to the 80% hurdle and other conduct rules).
Continues Ged: “The results for the first quarter of
quarter of 2021 were better 2021 were better than expected and the union looks
forward to the publication of the half year results.
than expected.
“Accord believes it is essential that the 2020 GPS
outcome is a ‘one-off’ and LBG colleagues will enjoy an
GED NICHOLS
award again in March 2022”.
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
5 The best of Betts 12-13 Changing workstyles
6 Education grants 14 Letters
7 LBG’s black pay gap 18 TUC Women’s Conference
8 Your questions 20 Subs draw
10-11 Abuse campaign 22-25 Accord accounts
June 2021 My Accord 3
NEWS
Farewell to Fran
After 23 years, Accord has said Group and supporting members in
goodbye to one of its long-serving TSB too.
officers, Fran O’Dowd. Fran said: “When I joined Accord,
Fran originally worked for Clerical never did I think I’d spend the rest
Medical in Bristol and was a leading of my working life doing what I
light in the Clerical Medical Staff was doing. It has been absolutely
Association. amazing and I’ve really enjoyed it.
When CMSA joined forces with It’s going to feel odd not worrying and talented officer and we’ll
Accord, Fran joined the union as about what the banks are going to all miss her both personally and
a regional officer looking after do, and not worrying about what all professionally. We wish her every
members in the South West & South our members are experiencing, but happiness for the future.
Wales. I know I’m leaving the union in the The Accord team held a virtual
In recent years, Fran has been safest hands it can be in.” farewell party for Fran and
working closely on change Ged Nichols said: “Fran has been surprised her with some recorded
programmes and related job a real asset to our union and our messages from those who had
security issues in Lloyds Banking members. She’s an intelligent worked with her.
@Jane_Carr84 @FreddieRocks @MarcusBott @JJ90300 @Leachy1085
Awww Fran, you will Happy retirement Good luck for the One of the very You will be missed
be missed, thank Fran, you deserve it future Fran and best. I have nothing Fran. Thank you for
you for all your thanks for your help but huge respect all your hard work!
support over the & support over the for Fran. It was a
years years privilege to work
with her.
Accord provides new home for charity
When Accord’s tenants moved on issue accessing some areas of the
recently, the team saw the chance hospital space and understandably
to help a great local charity – My the footfall had to be reduced to
Cancer My Choices – who were accommodate day to day activity.
looking for a new home. The charity concentrated on what it
Said Accord’s Paula Tegg: “We’re could do and we supported people
delighted in our 40th year to online where possible.
contribute by supporting a charity “We feel really privileged to have
that does such wonderful work.” been offered this space. We can
The charity provides now expand our services and grow
complementary therapies such our team – such an opportunity for Mandy Barter (left) and delivery
as acupuncture, massage or us. Ultimately this means that we manager Claire Harris
reflexology for people who are will be able to support more people
living with cancer within the with a cancer diagnosis and that is
Berkshire area and also offers the purpose of the charity.
virtual services. “We have moved in this week and
CEO of the charity Mandy Barter we already feel at home thanks to
said: “Covid has presented an Paula and her team.”
4 My Accord June 2021
INTERVIEW
All Betts are off for work
AFTER 33 YEARS’ SERVICE WITH THE HALIFAX AND THE BANK OF SCOTLAND AND AS LONG
WITH ACCORD, MARGARET BETTS BEGAN HER WELL-EARNED RETIREMENT IN DECEMBER
2020. MY ACCORD CAUGHT UP WITH HER TO FIND OUT ABOUT HER MEMORIES AND HOW
SHE’S PINNING EVERYTHING ON BEING ABLE TO TRAVEL SOON…
After having her first son Steven, from HR. It was such a difficult time reasons: “I was on holiday in Japan
Margaret started working at for her and I was pleased that I was when the pandemic struck and was
Edinburgh George St branch and the one who could help her. I know it told by the bank to self-isolate when
after a couple more moves and meant a lot to her but it meant a lot I returned. It felt as though the bank
another son Scott, ended up in to me too.” was going to be supportive from the
Musselburgh where she stayed for Margaret’s final year within Lloyds beginning.
28 years until she retired. Banking Group will probably be one “I think both the bank and Accord
She became an Accord rep in the of the most memorable for obvious have done really well supporting
early 90s: “I could see the staff though it all.”
good work the union did Margaret leaves with many
when I became a member, happy memories and funny
but decided to get more tales which usually involved
involved when I saw an a drop of alcohol – especially
injustice at close hand which the laughs that were had in
had not been dealt with the pub after rep meetings in
fairly. I wanted to be able to Glasgow.
help.” “I’ll really miss my
In the following years colleagues. I’ll keep in touch
Margaret saw Accord with a lot of the people
move from being a staff I’ve done casework for on
association to a full Facebook. The banter with
independent trade union, the reps was always good
chairing the union’s Scottish fun and of course I will miss
Executive Committee and my wingman John ‘Dicko’
serving on the Principal Dickinson. I am sure we
Executive Council. She says: will meet up though for a
“I also spent a lot of those gin when he is next in his
years doing casework and Edinburgh ‘office’.”
helping to train and coach One of Margaret’s main
other reps. passions is travelling and
“I’ve supported a lot of with the current situation has
people with mental health had to put her retirement trip
issues in recent years and plans on hold.
they’re always appreciative. She’s been such a help She says: “My sons gave my
It’s great to be able to step in husband Steve and I a pin
when they feel nobody else is over many years. She board for Christmas showing
listening.
“A few years ago a
continued to work full-on, right where we’ve already been
and there are a lot of gaps
colleague, who was also a up to retirement. in there for us to go at. We’ve
friend, was very ill and I was bought another set of pins to
able to help her and her JOHN DICKINSON, ACCORD SCOTLAND plot where we would like to
family after getting support see – it’s a big box!”
June 2021 My Accord 5
TRAINING
Anyone can
write, right?
The Bill Wright Memorial
Fund helped one member
realise her dream of
completing a creative
I’ll be forever grateful
writing course through the
to Accord.
DEVIKA
Open University.
Devika Dobson, a semi-retired forever grateful to Accord.” learnt and are still learning from
customer adviser and Accord rep English is Devika’s second each other, and more importantly
from Buxton branch, was doubly language – she studied it at school trust each other’s judgement.”
spurred on to follow her dreams. in Sri Lanka. She enjoys the classics, Devika says her main learning was
Having had two critical illnesses such as Shakespeare, Wordsworth that writing is a craft, and has to be
she followed her local hospice’s and Dickens and more modern learnt: “I’m now reading books very
advice to ‘do everything she wanted writers like Ian Rankin and Michael differently to how I used to, as I’m
to and not have any regrets,’ and Ondaatje. looking to see what techniques the
encouraged by her husband to ‘take Devika thought the course would authors use. I thought this would
the plunge’, she enrolled. be easy: “After all anyone can write, detract from my enjoyment of the
She’d seen articles in My Accord right? How wrong I was! It was story, but in fact it enhances it.
about the fund and applied for a really unnerving to expose work to “The course has also been useful
grant. She said: “The £500 helped other students and a tutor you’ve for reducing the stress of the
immensely towards materials never met. Both of my tutors were virus, as I channeled my mind into
for the course and I’ve now been published authors. Two years later, characters and stories, rather than
awarded a master’s degree. I’ll be we all respect each other, have focusing on a chaotic world.”
EDUCATION AND
Bill Wright Clive Webster
DEVELOPMENT FUNDS
TO MERGE
The union has two funds which
were set up in the memories of
the former general secretary
Bill Wright and deputy general
secretary Clive Webster, both of
whom were passionate about
helping people develop and
educate themselves.
The principal executive council
has decided to merge the funds
and offer grants to more members
- details will be on the website
soon. Watch this space!
6 My Accord June 2021
NEWS
BLACK
PAY GAP
IN LBG
Pictured right - Jenny Tonge Accord rep from Halifax Palmers Green in London
LBG was the first bank to announce WHAT ACCORD’S DOING Accord actively
its black pay gap and revealed that Accord’s Equality Diversity &
its black staff are paid 16.7% less Inclusion group launched a survey opposes all forms
than their peers. asking members to report their
It put the disparity down to the experiences of everyday racism in
of prejudice and is
number of black employees in the workplace. committed to getting
senior positions – with its employee
base made up of 1.5% of black staff, It also asked what Accord needed to things right for all
only 0.6% are in a top job, which in do to tackle race issues. The survey
turn attracts bigger earnings. was small-scale and, even though our members.
With that in mind, LBG has set a general conclusions can’t be drawn, CHRIS RIMELL
goal of increasing the number of provided valuable insights.
black people in senior jobs to 3%
by 2025. This would put the figure KEY THEMES: SO HERE’S THE PLAN…
in line with the black population in ➜M
any members reported 1. Improve membership guidance,
England and Wales. receiving unfair treatment at support and services.
Ged Nichols said: “Whilst the work because of their ethnic 2. Grow diversity in the union’s
figures don’t look good, we have to background or skin colour structures, and ensure
remember that LBG is the first bank ➜T he treatment was most often communications reflect that
to release figures like this and we attributed to a member of strategy.
urge other major banks to do the management or a customer 3. Work with employers to tackle
same.” ➜W omen were more than twice as the root causes of inequality,
Currently around 1 in 10 employers likely to have experienced unfair underrepresentation and
are publishing this data voluntarily treatment compared to men discrimination in the workplace.
which is woeful given the attention ➜A ccord’s internal democratic
that issues facing black and other structures don’t match the same SPECIALIST RACE
minority ethnic groups has had in diversity as the membership EDUCATION TRAINING
the wake of the Black Lives Matter ➜C ommunication should be Accord recently attended a
movement. more inclusive – My Accord was race education training session
LBG and the unions have been specifically called out as needing developed by LBG for its senior
meeting on a regular basis to work to cover more positive stories. leadership teams. Accord’s
together on the race agenda and Says Accord’s Chris Rimell: “Accord officers, PEC members and the
the bank will share an update on its values diversity. We believe that all Equality Diversity & Inclusion group
Race Action Plan in July. members should be treated with attended the session.
Accord has also launched a dignity and respect. We actively Chris Rimell said: “One of the most
working group to look at how to oppose all forms of harassment, engaging pieces of training I’ve
become a more inclusive and prejudice, and unfair discrimination ever attended. It wasn’t just useful,
representative union and will on any grounds. We’re committed but essential for us and the bank.”
develop an action plan going to getting things right for all of our Around 9,500 colleagues from LBG
forwards. members.” have now signed up for the training.
June 2021 My Accord 7
ASK YOUR UNION
Accord receives lots of questions on
a whole range of issues. Here are
some of the things you are asking
at the moment...
I’m a mortgage and We’ve discussed why we weren’t
I’ve moved from branch to protection adviser and consulted and why the business
working from home as part I’m really not happy about feels it’s necessary to do this.
of customer contact. Am I the call recording that’s been Also, we’re looking into whether
eligible to claim the working from introduced behind the backs of our data protection laws are being
home tax relief? customers. What’ve Accord done breached, questioning the
about this? morality of secret recordings
Yes you are. You can choose and highlighting the impact it’s
from one of two methods to Unfortunately the decision having on staff morale. We have
make a claim. You can either to ask you to record seen two changes as a result
claim tax relief on a fixed amount of your calls without telling of our representations. You can
up to £6 per week without any need customers wasn’t discussed with us. let customers know that calls
to provide documentation to support We can totally understand you’re are being recorded and the
this amount. not happy about it and we’ve let requirements about reporting
Or you can calculate the actual the bank know about the concerns a ‘breach’ where a call is
additional expenses incurred as a that our members have shared accidentally not recorded are now
result of working from home. with us (anonymously). less onerous.
HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC)
guidance advises which additional
expenses are eligible. I’ve been promoted and my earnings are now over £50,000.
You then have to work out the How will this affect the child benefit my partner receives? Do we
proportion which relates to the need to stop claiming this?
additional homeworking costs by
calculating the number of rooms You’ve reached the threshold over which child benefit is clawed
so that you can claim the amount back.
relating to say one out of seven For every £2 of income over this threshold, HMRC will clawback £1
rooms. of child benefit from you.
You then need to take this figure The clawback can be dealt with by HMRC amending your PAYE code so the
and work out the number of hours amount is deducted over the course of the tax year from your salary.
worked as a proportion of the total You can work it out using
house of use in a week. The result If it gets to a point where you’re paying back all the child benefit you can
of these calculations is then eligible stop receiving it via this link.
for tax relief at 20% if a basic rate
taxpayer and 50% if a higher rate Do you have a burning issue you want an answer to? Get in touch and
taxpayer. maybe it’ll help others who were thinking the same thing...
8 My Accord June 2021
A healthy partnership
About the author –
Nita Clarke OBE
during the pandemic
Director of the
IPA, Nita has a
long career in the
trade union and
labour movement. The Involvement and Participation and the branch network senior leadership
She joined the Association (IPA) – the leading UK to explore ‘in the moment’ colleague
Confederation organisation which delivers employee concerns, customer behaviours and health
of Health Service engagement, partnership and employee and safety issues.
Employees (COHSE) voice in the workplace – has produced an
in 1976, working for independent case study about the working It brought an unprecedented level
the health union relationship between LBG and Accord and of detailed work as well as strategic
until 1983. She then Unite during the pandemic. engagement, enabling real collaboration
had seven years Nita starts by highlighting the strong and and providing energy to work together
at Greater London effective relations between Accord and to solve problems. One interviewee said
Council, including Unite and the group since Lloyds TSB took ‘the unions are my eyes and ears on the
four years as Ken over HBOS in 2009. She also talks about ground’.”
Livingstone’s press the architecture and strong relationship
officer. Then she that built up during this difficult and The case study also acts as a reminder
rejoined COHSE unprecedented time being key to meeting about the important changes that were
as its press and the ongoing and immediate challenges agreed by LBG and the unions including
political officer presented by COVID19. full pay for all regardless of role or
before moving to individual circumstance, reduced branch
Downing Street Substantial changes in working opening times and agreements on home
as Tony Blair’s practices, including enabling many working including provision of equipment
assistant political colleagues to work from home, and and flexibility around childcare.
secretary with stagger working hours, were agreed and
responsibility for implemented in an extremely short space In the IPA’s judgement the strong
trade union liaison. of time, including joint communications on and enduring relationship between LBG
major changes, and joint working groups and the recognised trade unions is an
on specific issues, and helping ensure that outstanding exemplary of a deep and
interests, safety and wellbeing of all staff effective partnership approach which
remain of paramount concern.” has proved its value to employees and
organisation, enabling LBG to place
Nita highlights the calls between the the interests of its employees front and
group’s leadership and the unions which centre as it navigated its way through the
were key to sharing information and various and unprecedented impacts of the
having a joined up approach. There were pandemic.”
also daily meetings between the unions
June 2021 My Accord 9
ABUSE CAMPAIGN
Taking abuse
is
part of the job
Taking abuse from customers whether in branch or over the phones
is nothing new for bank staff, and sadly many say ‘it’s part of the
job and we have to get used to it’.
Accord is campaigning to change this mindset and expectation. The Institute carried out research
Matters seemed to get worse during the pandemic with new at the start of 2021 which showed
guidelines to be adhered to, reduced services and long queues, respect issues had worsened during
more customers are aiming their frustrations and anger firmly the third lockdown.
in the face and ears of frontline staff both in branch and on the
phones.
As part of its campaign Accord has signed up to The Institute find customers less tolerant
of Customer Service’s ‘Service with Respect’ campaign. With because of the pandemic (20% in
around 150 industry supporters, comprising more than 1m June 2020)
employees, the campaign aims to protect and improve the ‘new
essential workers’ identified during the pandemic. experienced greater
Ged Nichols was recently asked to speak at one of the hostility since the third lockdown
institute’s meetings to an all party parliamentary group on began
customer services about what can be done about the increase in
abuse of customer services workers including financial services experienced face-to-
staff. face and verbal hostility asking
Says Ged Nichols: “We believe many cases go unreported customers to adhere to social
because people have become so conditioned to taking abuse distance rules
as part of the job. That’s not right and has to change. We’d urge
anyone who experiences any kind of abuse to report it straight experienced face-to-
away.” face and verbal hostility asking
customers to wear a face mask
said they’d been thanked by
a customer for being a key worker
10 My Accord June 2021A CALL FOR ENDING ABUSE
LBG has started a pilot designed
to help contact centre colleagues
who have warned customers
about their abusive behaviour or
threats during a call.
Rather than just hanging up,
they can now transfer them to a
recorded message which says:
“As we are unable to have a
constructive conversation we have
ended the call. We had asked
that you do not use threatening
or abusive behaviour towards our
staff member who was trying to
assist you. We may need to close
your account following a review
of the call and, if so, we will write
and let you know.”
The person taking the call is also
asked to give feedback around
what action they feel is right given
the nature of the abuse.
WHAT COLLEAGUES SAY... I get sworn at a lot by men – The abuse we’re dealing
generally a mouthful of abuse with now is hard to handle.
before they end the call. I It’s psychological abuse.
usually get ‘thanks for nothing’ Customers say we’re leaving
and worse from men who feel their children to starve,
they can order a woman about we’ve ruined Christmas and
We’ve had a customer visiting and that I don’t know how to do birthdays. Even customers
most days demanding where my job because I’m female. telling us they’ll commit suicide
his money is. He’s high on drugs if we don’t do something
most of the time and has just or because we have done
been released from prison for a something. One complaint
violent robbery. I often get discriminated manager was told they’d be
One day he got extremely against because of my accent, named in their suicide note.
agitated and aggressive and with customers saying ‘I don’t
refused to leave the branch. At understand you, I don’t know
this point we were all scared what nationality you are. Are
(we knew what he was capable you in India? You can’t speak
of) and called the police who English’. We’re told on a regular basis
advised us to get him out and that customers will share our
then lock the doors till they names on social media or take
arrived. us to court. Not the bank, us as
He eventually left. His account colleagues. All for just doing a
has now been closed and an job!
injunction taken out.
June 2021 My Accord 11THE FUTURE OF WORK
A ‘Once in a generation’
Of the people within Lloyds Banking
Group who’ve been working from home
during the pandemic, more than three
quarters would like to continue doing so
for at least three days a week.
Add to this a focus on climate change
and the bank is looking at ‘reimagined
ways of working’ for those in roles where
flexibility is possible.
There are many factors to consider – new
ways of working e.g. Teams, technology
at home, time saved on commutes and
on the opposite side lack of face-to-face
connections, mental health issues relating
to isolation and not having the space to
work from home. It’s not just about the
job role – it’s about employees’ individual
needs too.
The new ‘workstyles’ will start being
rolled out during the summer and will also
help LBG start to invest in fewer, better
buildings.
Throughout the So what are the options?
pandemic we’ve been There are three main ones but the bank is
keen to point out that nothing is set in stone
supporting members who and there will be flexibility based on business
and personal needs.
have been working from
home and those for whom 1 – Mainly working from home – some
roles will be mostly based at home
home working isn’t suitable.
2 – Flexing between home and hubs
We’ve been heavily engaged – many roles will have the ability
to work between home and an
with LBG about future work
office – mainly coming together
styles and will continue to to collaborate with agreement
between teams on how, when and
ensure that new ways of where
working benefit employees 3 – Mainly working from a hub/office/
as well as the employers. branch – some roles require a
fixed working location – if you’re
currently working in an office it’s
GED NICHOLS likely this will continue
12 My Accord June 2021shift in workstyles
Unions highlight
mental health impact
Trade unions are calling on the
government and employers to deal
with another epidemic – Covid
related mental health issues.
UNITE
of reps there are dealing
83% with an uplift in members
reporting mental health
(65% in 2020)
BMA
of doctors said they were
21% considering leaving the
NHS over the coming
year as they deal with
stress and burnout
GMB
of social care workers
75% said their job has
BBC research reveals shift
seriously impacted their
mental health
for biggest employers UNISON
of local government
Research from the BBC suggests
that nearly all of the 50 biggest
also reported that 36% of the UK’s
employed population worked from 80% workers in Scotland
reported an increase in
employers – from banks to retailers home at some point last year. stress – 44% said it was
- don’t plan on bringing their staff But while people said they ‘substantial’
back to the office on a full-time were saving time on commuting,
basis. they also said they were doing
More than 40 of the companies an average of six-hours unpaid
said it would encourage a mix of overtime every week. NASUWT
home and office work with staff One bank employee said working of teachers feel their job
being encouraged to work from
home two to three days each week.
from home takes over your life:
“You’re on your laptop before 80% has adversely affected
their mental health and
Many said workers could make breakfast. When you’re in the office almost 25% have sought
their own decisions about frequency there’s the journey in, buying a medical help to cope
in the office. coffee, chatting to a colleague and
The Office for National Statistics sitting at your desk at 8.30 or 9am.”
13ACCORDING
TO Hello!
YOU
This is your chance CLOSER TOGETHER WHEN WILL WE SAY ‘NO’?
I’d personally like to do a big shout When are we going to start to say
to have a say about out for our senior branch manager ‘no’ to those who refuse to wear
at Halifax Ellesmere Port, Paula masks.
the things that matter Fallows. I feel at risk constantly. I may not
With the latest lockdown be doing face to face appointments,
to you. If you want and school closures she has but I’m still at extreme risk as are
been absolutely wonderful, my colleagues. Customers walk
to make a point in a understanding and incredibly in then put on their mask while
supportive throughout. I love her already inside, don’t wear one at all
future edition of My saying: “You can only do what you or wear it on their chin.
can do.” I think everything that has I’m sorry but why can’t we stand
Accord, get in touch... happened over the past year has at the door and say: “You’re NOT
brought the relationship between coming in here without a mask
management and the union that unless medically exempt and
GET IN bit closer together and both have therefore wearing a lanyard.”
TOUCH! never been more supportive.
Charlotte Handford
I’ve had customers take down their
masks to speak and to cough, which
Simply email your constitutes assault!
letters to ENGAGING AND RELEVANT I’m a single mum of four and I
I just want to tell you how much I can’t afford to be ill. It’s time to take
We reserve editorial enjoy reading the union magazine. stricter action.
rights and letters do I feel like I learn something new on Name supplied
not necessarily every page, and I particularly like
reflect the views and the Q&As from colleagues which
policies must provide them with a lot of
of the union. We don’t reassurance. Thank you for making
publish it so engaging and relevant, I really
letters received look forward to reading it when it
anonymously, but if arrives.
you want us to withhold Kate Malcolmson
your name, let us know.
14 My Accord June 2021NEWS
WHERE THERE’S A
Welcoming WILL THERE’S A WAY
lockdown
Layla
By now most people are used to
communicating with people via
Teams, but it’s perhaps not widely
known that you can also carry out
some legal affairs via video call.
For example, usually a Power of
Attorney means you need a doctor
or solicitor to interview you face to
face before you sign it to make sure
you have the capacity – then they
need to sign a certificate.
Earlier this year, the Law Society
issued guidance which means
Lockdown has been a challenge change all their PPE when moving instructions can be taken remotely.
for everyone, but what was it like between babies, while trying to Accord’s solicitors, Dallas
to welcome a new arrival into the quickly respond to their needs.” McMillan, offer members in
family during this time? Christina says the next few Scotland 25% discount on preparing
My Accord chatted to Christina months in their family bubble a PoA. Says Dallas McMillan’s David
Leach, who was a recruitment of four were strange, yet very McElroy: “It’s not just for people
organiser and left Accord earlier precious. With Aaron furloughed who have developed dementia or
this year. She had her second child and Joey’s nursery closed, they Alzheimer’s, it’s also important if
Layla with partner Aaron, on 1 were able to spend time together you can’t communicate decisions
April 2020. A sister for three year- and even managed a couple of for example, if you’ve had an
old Joey. holidays. However, the extended accident, stroke or are simply
When Christina’s waters broke family not being able to meet unwell.”
six weeks early she had to go Layla hit hard. Shirley Luxon a rep from Elgin has
to hospital alone to be checked “It was heartbreaking watching recently used the service: “I set up
over. She said: “It was extremely them having to meet Layla Wills and PoAs for myself and my
frightening for me – especially through a window. We used husband Paul. It was easy and so
because I lost a baby late in Facetime but it was really much cheaper than using a local
pregnancy the previous year. I upsetting for our families who solicitor – around half the price!
was kept in for observation and were desperate for a cuddle.” “They even helped my mum with
Aaron wasn’t allowed into the Christina worked for LBG for hers too. All done via Zoom, so was
hospital to support me.” 16 years in community banking very easy to set up as I’m in the
Christina had an emergency before joining Accord on North of Scotland and my mum is in
c-section and Layla was brought secondment: “I also want to say Edinburgh. The fact solicitors can
into the world weighing 4lb 4oz. thank you to the union. I’m so do this now is making it a good time
After three weeks in hospital, she grateful to have had this role to get your affairs in order.”
was allowed home. and Jim Fielding was incredibly
Continues Christina: “The supportive, especially when me Shirley and Paul
Luxon
hospital staff were amazing. and my family went through such
Covid made their jobs so much a difficult time when I lost the
more difficult. They had to baby.”
Jim Fielding was incredibly
supportive at such a difficult time.
CHRISTINA
June 2021 My Accord 15NEWS
FREE
SUBS!
Did you know that if
you’re on maternity,
adoption or shared
parental leave you
don’t have to pay union
subscription fees for up
to 12 months?
The offer is for members
who are up to date with
their subs and have
Lucy in leadership
been in the union for at
least 12 months (if not,
free subs start on the
one year anniversary of
membership until you
return to work).
Being in the same role for eight years online. “We explored leadership styles –
and looking after two young daughters looking at those we know and critiquing
made Lucy Maller feel that she’d their styles, the barriers women face
pressed the pause button on her future and dealing with opposition. We also
goals and development. heard from MP Tracy Brabin and or email:
Lucy, who works in customer services worked as a group on a project that
Make sure to include:
in Halifax and is also a member of we’ve been invited to present to the ➜ F ull name and
Accord’s Principal Executive Council, TUC Equalities Forum. workplace
decided to change that and has “I want to look at ways to empower ➜M embership or
just completed the TUC’s Women in other women reps to become active. employee ID no.
➜ Personal contact
Leadership course – a development Setting up a group would help look at
details
programme for female trade unionists. issues which directly relate to women ➜ Date leave starts.
Says Lucy: “I thought it would be and how we can overcome them. Applications should
a chance to review things and get “The course gave me the chance be sent to Accord
me thinking about what I wanted to to talk to other women like me, who before the period of
achieve over the next few years.” have felt their ambitions have been maternity/adoption/
shared parental leave
Because of the pandemic the course, put on the backburner due to caring
starts and need to
which runs over three months, was responsibilities, which was really be accompanied by
adapted from classroom based to empowering.” some evidence such
as a MatB1 form,
adoption certificate, or
other relevant formal
Who inspires Lucy? documentation. Before
returning, members
should send another
Annie Kenney (pictured right) email to
“One of the less famous suffragettes. Working
class from Manchester she was fearless and including:
➜ F ull name and
passionate and willing to do anything for the
workplace
cause.” ➜M embership or
employee ID no.
Jacinda Ardern (pictured top) ➜R eturn to work date
“It blows my mind that she’s only four years older ➜ Weekly hours.
Make sure you spread
than me and she’s the PM of New Zealand. She’s
the word to any members
handled the pandemic like an absolute boss! who have leave coming
Brilliant leadership skills and she does it all with a up!
small child.”
16 My Accord June 2021NEWS
NEW WEBSITE A
Jenny and her son GREAT SUCCESS
BWC help Jenny and son has gone down a treat with
‘feel they have a future’ members.
It’s easy to use and find your
way around and there’s loads of
During the first lockdown around She left the family home and information for members and reps
20% of all offences recorded by moved in with a friend. – all using Accord’s new branding.
police were flagged as domestic A colleague at work suggested So it’s not only more useful – it looks
abuse related – compared to less she call the Bank Workers Charity. great too.
than 15% in previous years. They were able to help by giving You can also change the details
And behind every number, there’s Jenny a grant to secure a flat and that Accord holds for you and buy
a real person. One example was to cover household items and tickets for the Subscription Draw.
Jenny, a bank worker, who says her general living expenses. Jenny Encourage your colleagues who
abuse started with her husband was also on a long waiting list for aren’t members to join online and
criticising the way she dressed, counselling but BWC were able to much more!
how she looked after their son and refer Jenny and her son to one of Improvements are
not giving her access to money. their partners, enabling them to already on the way - you can
She says: “It felt as though he get the counselling they needed
was constantly ‘getting at me’. I more quickly.
thought about leaving but it was Says Jenny: “We still have some
never a good time.” issues with my husband, but BWC’s VERY IMPRESSIVE -
Jenny’s husband then became help means we don’t have to worry CONTENT, COVERAGE,
violent, pushing her against the about a roof over our heads and PRESENTATION, LINKS,
fridge and she feared he’d hit her. we finally feel we have a future.” FUNCTIONALITY, SERIOUSLY GOOD
Especially worried about her son, RESULT.
she called the police who marked
her as ‘high risk’.
REDUNDANCY HELP Help is at hand if you or a loved receive from Accord, the Bank
one finds themselves facing Workers Charity (BWC) has
redundancy. produced a ‘How to guide’ to help
Accord has just published new people manage wellbeing during
redundancy guidance which can be redundancy which you can read
There’s also an interactive e-bite The guide covers a variety of
with more information which you areas including aspects of mental
can wellbeing such as looking after
The guidance covers how to yourself, establishing a routine,
appeal, help with CV writing, making sure you talk to people and
finding a new job and much more. most importantly being kind to
As well as the support you can yourself.
June 2021 My Accord 17NEWS
TUC Women’s Conference
The three-day conference was see it in terms of insecurity. We see the current crisis, subjects covered
online for the first time ever, which it in terms of treatment at work, included equal pay, domestic abuse
gave more women the chance to attitudes towards women at work. and gender-based violence and
get involved by tuning in on Zoom. Sometimes, you know, it feels like sexual harassment.
TUC general secretary Frances we’re almost back in the 1950s in Accord staff and members of the
O’Grady opened the conference terms of the attitudes as to whose Principal Executive Council (PEC)
and commented that existing livelihood can be sacrificed.” also joined the sessions…
inequalities between the sexes were Throughout the event there were
magnified by Covid with women debates, panel discussions and
bearing the brunt. She said: “We interactive workshops. As well as
Positive reactions to this year’s conference
CAROL LISA SULLIVAN, LUCY MALLER, PEC
KNOWLES, REP Like Lisa I really enjoyed the
PEC VICE I think the GM4Women2028 session and
PRESIDENT conference also like her I’m obsessed with
There was a worked the Pankhursts!
session about better online Hearing about the work the
domestic violence during – because it was shorter it ASLEF union are doing on
lockdown which was really really honed in on what was working for equality was also
thought provoking. I think important. really inspirational.
within LBG we’re in a bit of a My favourite session was
bubble as we’d automatically the GM4Women2028 – in the
give support and offer time footsteps of the Pankhursts.
off where we knew this was We heard from Helen
happening – we don’t have the Pankhurst about how women
same problems with this that in Manchester are working to
other unions and workplaces
do.
tackle inequality. I’m a bit of
a Pankhurst ‘fan girl’ – Sylvia HIST RY
I liked the conference being especially was a natural born MONTH
online – it kept everything rebel – she did what she
succinct and I felt the speakers wanted but stood up for people During Women’s History Month
were able to be more specific at the same time. Accord took the opportunity to
as there were fewer of them. look at the stories of inspirational
women both from within the union
and outside.
18 My Accord June 2021NEWS
The story of Chris KEITH SARTAIN TRIBUTE
Accord officer Chris Rimell put his
animation skills to work to tell his
story and win an award.
The 2020 Videoscribe* awards
panel declared Chris the clear
winner in the ‘Scribe that tells the Accord stalwart Keith Sartain died suddenly following a short
best story’ category saying: “Chris illness on 29 March aged 68.
transported us to his home town He leaves behind his partner Sue, his mother, daughter
and we relived pivotal moments in Helen, son-in-law, two grandchildren and his union family.
his life that led him to where he is Having worked in branches in Liverpool for 45 years he was
now.” a regular fixture at Accord meetings and conferences – often
He created the film to coincide announcing himself as ‘the oldest fart in the room’. Keith
with National Coming Out Day 2020 served as a rep for many years and was chair of the North
and the animation, accompanied West executive committee for many of them.
by Chris’s voice over, tells the story Two of his great passions were playing the harmonica and
of his life focusing on him coming his vintage car called Chloe. After shielding for many months,
out and his work with the union – all Keith managed a trip out in Chloe shortly before he passed
that in just over two minutes! away.
Keith is described as an Accord legend who will be sorely
missed by all who knew him.
He was a true gent - polite, good fun and always stayed
CHECK IT OUT! up until the end of the night whether that be awake or
asleep at the table. He was also a lover of red wine although it
generally got the better of him!
Carol Knowles, Accord’s vice-president
It’s not just for reps, there’s lots of He was so organised, especially when we went to union
useful information for members too. meetings. He’d organise it so we could all travel together
You can link in to virtual TUC and gave us time for a coffee first. He was always there with a
conferences for example the Young smile and a kind word. Going to miss you Mr S xx
or Disabled Workers Conferences. Anne Williams-Dodd
There are useful webinars run by
the Bank Workers Charity to help He was one of the kindest, gentlest men that I’ve had the
with issues you may be facing e.g. pleasure to meet - I’ve worked alongside him for many
years and don’t think I ever saw him miserable or annoyed with
and UnionLearn training sessions. anything. Keith never judged and always, whatever time of
And there are some the day, had a listening helpful ear to lend. RIP Keith, miss you
to help you understand the bank’s already.
policies and procedures such as Vicki Hunt
health and safety.
* an animation software June 2021 My Accord 19SUBS DRAW
Every month the Accord subs draw makes a
lucky jackpot winner £5,000 better off and 25 CLICK HERE
other members each get £100. You’ve got to be TO ENTER
in it to win it!
Recent lucky £100 winners!
Like a lot of people I’m decorating the house bit by bit during lockdown,
so I used the money for a picture that I have wanted for ages.
Jill Wallace
It was great timing for me
as my son was a born a week
later! The £100 went towards
him and his future.
I’ve saved the Michael Bracken
money to put
towards a wedding
gift for my brother It was lovely to get some news
and his fiance. to put a smile on my face in
They’re getting these otherwise gloomy times.
married in June - We’re spending it on decorating
Covid permitting :-) materials to keep us busy -
Debbie Simpson hopefully we’ll still be smiling at
the end result.
Carol Brooks
Having been in the subscription draw since
2001, I was starting to think I’d never win. I thought it was a scam at first and
Then I’ve won £100 in October and then couldn’t believe my luck! Lovely
again in December! I like tech and have been way to start the new year. I’m
automating everything I can at home, so the saving the money until lockdown
prizes will go on some home gadgets. ends and I can go out and spend it.
David Finch Katie Long
Members can purchase up to five tickets in the monthly draw at £1 each – and the new website means
you can add or remove tickets in the subs draw at any time by logging into your account!
20 My Accord June 2021MEMBERS ONLY
It wasn’t quite
the wedding
we thought
it’d be but we were
We’d love to hear
happy it took place! from members
about what’s
important to them
JANE TOINTON - and it could be
featured in the
next magazine.
SECOND TIME LUCKY FOR JANE AND BARRY We’re interested
in finding out
During the past year weddings have been Says Jane: “We were due to get married about what you
cancelled, rescheduled, numbers allowed on 7 November but it was cancelled when think about the
to attend slashed and receptions banned. the second lockdown happened on the 5th! latest news and
Jane Tointon from Upminster branch Luckily we could go ahead in December anything else
was one of those affected but eventually before the next lockdown. you think could
managed to have her ‘not so big’ day “It wasn’t quite the wedding we thought it be interesting to
in December. She married Barry and would be, with less guests, wearing masks, other members,
celebrated with a limited number of guests social distancing and no reception but we including:
including their nine year old son Taylor. were so happy it took place!” Case studies –
have you had a
problem where the
Nigel’s conference win
union has helped
you out? These
often help other
members seek
Former rep and chair of one of Accord’s milestones and events during the past help if they’re in a
executive committees, Nigel Brown, still months including he and his wife’s similar position
likes to keep in touch with the union and his 65th birthdays and their Ruby wedding Member benefits
old friends five years after retiring. anniversary. – have you made
And as a result he’s just won a break away “We’ve had a few breaks away delayed use of Accord’s
courtesy of Accord’s Travel Club. and the Accord prize will add to that – member benefits?
He joined the union’s virtual conference we’re fancying the Jurassic coast for our What are your
to catch up with things and entered the break. I’ve no idea how we’ll fit it all in!” thoughts?
competition to win a UK break at a holiday Q&As/letters
park on the conference app. personal
Says Nigel: “It was a total surprise when achievements/
I got the call to say I’d won. It was such a charity events/
tonic after the year I’ve had.” announcements.
Unfortunately, just before Christmas 2019, If you have a
Nigel was diagnosed with bladder cancer. story just send
He had a tumour removed at the start of and
February 2020 but then Covid-19 struck. the editor will
Continues Nigel: “The pandemic meant be in touch. Any
I couldn’t have the immunotherapy stories / feedback
treatment I needed until much later in the etc can be kept
year. Thankfully, preventative treatment is anonymous if you
going well.” wish.
Like many others, Nigel has missed
June 2021 My Accord 21Independent Auditor’s report Accord’s accounts for the year ending 31 December 2020 – Income and expenditure – Statement to members
Statement to members This statement is issued in connection with the union’s annual return for the period ended 31 December 2020. As required by Section 32A of Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992. Income and Expenditure The total income of the union for the year was £2,861,347. This amount included total payments of £2,741,811 from members of the union. The union’s total expenditure for the period was £2,272,059. The union does not maintain a political fund. Salary paid to and other benefits provided to the General Secretary, President and members of the Executive The General Secretary of the union was paid a salary of £133,407, employer pension contributions of £4,000 were made on his behalf plus £14,657 was paid in respect of benefits. The President and other members of the Executive were not paid any amount in respect of salary or benefits. Irregularity statement A member who is concerned that some irregularity may be occurring, or has occurred, in the conduct of the financial affairs of the union may take steps with a view to investigating further, obtaining clarification and, if necessary, securing regularisation of that conduct. The member may raise any such concern with one or more of the following as it seems appropriate to raise it with: the officials of the union, the trustees of the property of the union, the auditor or auditors of the union, the Certification Officer (who is an independent officer appointed by the Secretary of State) and the police. Where a member believes that the financial affairs of the union have been or are being conducted in breach of the law or in breach of the rules of the union and contemplates bringing civil proceedings against the union or responsible officials or trustees, he should consider obtaining independent legal advice. Auditors’ report Opinion We have audited the financial statements of Accord (the ‘Union’) for the year ended 31 December 2020, which comprise the Statement of comprehensive income, the Balance sheet, the Statement of changes in equity and the related notes, including a summary of significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 ‘The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland’ (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). In our opinion the financial statements: • give a true and fair view of the state of the Union’s affairs as at 31 December 2020 and of its surplus or deficit for the year then ended; • have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and • have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the section 28 to 36 of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992. Basis for opinion We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditors’ responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the Union in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the United Kingdom, including the Financial Reporting Council’s Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. Conclusions relating to going concern In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the Council’s use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate. Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the Union’s ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue. Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the Council with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report. Other information The Council is responsible for the other information. The other information comprises the information included in the Annual Report, other than the financial statements and our Auditors’ report thereon. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether there is a material misstatement in the financial statements or a material misstatement of the other information. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard. In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit: • the information given in the Council’s report for the financial year for which the financial statements are prepared is consistent with the financial statements; and • the Council’s report has been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements. Matters on which we are required to report by exception In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the Union and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the Council’s report.
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