First and foremost, a huge thank you to everyone who attended our branch meeting on November 26th. Your time, insights, and dedication are the backbone of our shared mission. We also want to acknowledge the delay in holding this meeting and reaffirm our commitment to making these gatherings more timely in the future.
Key Updates Discussed
Redundancies Across BT and Openreach
The telecom industry is undergoing significant transformation, with BT announcing plans to cut up to 55,000 jobs by 2030. This has directly impacted our branch, with 89 redundancies processed so far.
A special thanks to Darren Weller for his tireless work in ensuring members received representation and fair outcomes. We secured meaningful wins, including additional salary in PILON payments for those affected. Openreach is facing further workforce reductions, with plans to scale down from 31,000 to 20,000 employees in the next two years. We are closely monitoring the situation, particularly the uptick in disciplinary actions that may indicate an effort to manage headcount indirectly.
Our support extends to colleagues in the newly formed Union of Telecommunications and Allied Workers (UTAW), who are also navigating redundancy challenges in non-recognised companies.
Election Results
Congratulations to Pete and Kate on their re-elections! Their continued leadership ensures our branch remains well-represented at the national level. Here are the key outcomes: T&FS Chair: Andy Mercer, NEC Members: Kate Walsh, Michelle Bailey, and others. National Team: Peter Francis and others LGBT+ Rep: Maria Excel. If you haven’t received the full list of elected representatives, please reach out.
Strengthening Membership and Recruitment
Membership retention and growth remain a top priority: Targeting Non-Members: Our strategy includes workplace mapping, phone outreach, and face-to-face visits to engage potential members. Youth Engagement: Anthony, our Youth Secretary, has been pivotal in attending events and raising motions that amplify younger workers’ voices. Social Media: Our platforms continue to thrive, with highlights like the “Ask Antony” videos, which recently addressed workplace bullying and garnered 469 views in a week. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook.
Innovations in Health and Safety
The USR Health and Safety App, affectionately known as “Rick’s App,” has been fully operational since November. This tool empowers Union Safety Representatives to conduct building inspections efficiently, and we’re committed to further enhancements.
Annual Conference Highlights
The CWU Annual Conference 2024 addressed key issues: Opposing compulsory redundancies and advocating for alternatives. Improving workplace conditions, especially for female field engineers. Supporting site preservation through the “Save Our Site” campaign. Tackling workforce surveillance concerns. Celebrating motions raised by our branch, including those on redundancy processes and increasing London Weighting pay.
The conference also paid tribute to the late Andy Kerr, whose legacy continues to inspire us all.
Call to Action: Strengthening Our Union Together
Our collective strength lies in our numbers. With the challenges posed by restructuring, technology advancements, and economic pressures, it’s more important than ever to stand united.
Here’s how you can help: Identify Non-Members: Let us know about colleagues who aren’t members. Spread the Word: Share your positive experiences as a union member. Participate: Join us at events or help distribute materials.
Together, we can ensure that every member has a voice, support, and representation.
Thank you for your unwavering support. Let’s keep moving forward together.