Thanks to everyone who voted in our independent ballot. Not the greatest turn-out, but better than last year.
 
The independent ballot scrutineer, Civica, reported that 31.6% of eligible Accord members in LBG voted.
 
And of those, 71% answered ‘yes’ to the question: Do you support the union signing an agreement to implement the proposals?
 
We’ll sign an agreement shortly. The proposals will take effect from 1st April 2021.
 
Even though the majority voted for Accord to sign an agreement, we certainly won’t ignore those of you who voted against. Your views are just as important.
 
We’re working through nearly 2,500 written responses, from which it’s clear that the lack of Group Performance Share Award (bonus) usually paid in March has upset a lot of members.
 
It will be very interesting to learn of the Group’s financial performance for last year on 24^th February - particularly dividend policy – when we’ll engage again with LBG to see if any additional financial recognition for staff is possible this year.
 
Other issues from the feedback show a lack of understanding of LBG’s pay policies and concerns about grading and responsibilities.
 
The review of grades A & B that was promised last year hasn’t been delivered and more work is needed to simplify grading structures, pay groups and how staff progress through their pay ranges.
 
But there were other themes too, particularly from staff who have been dealing with the public face to face throughout the pandemic who believe they should have been better recognised and rewarded.
 
So, despite reaching agreement on the 2021 pay review, there's much more for the union to do.  We've got a good relationship with LBG's leadership who are keen to hear our views and fully consider the issues we table. We'll be getting on with it right away.
 
In other news, LBG has announced that the current concessionary staff mortgage offer will not be available after 10^th April and a new discounted rate will be offered in its place. This doesn’t impact current borrowing at staff rate but members should check the information on Group Interchange & Move. The plan was first announced in October 2018 and put on hold temporarily following representations by the unions. If you have any queries about this, please email [email protected].
 
Thanks for being an Accord member.