News from across the business
The March newsround has been issued to members in TSB to provide an update on our on-going talks with the business.
This update covers:
- Banking Standards Board 2020 employee survey results
- The agreement reached on pay 2021
- New ways of working post covid
- Issues with TVI & Telephony teams
- Wellbeing 1-2-1s
- Adverse weather guidance
- Accord rep vacancies
Banks must do more on diversity, inclusion and equality
The Banking Standards Board (BSB) has now published the 2020 Employee Survey aggregate results.
Scores improved when averaged across all banks. The largest gains came on responding to employee feedback, leadership, and health and wellbeing.
However, the responses were markedly less positive from bank employees identifying as Black/Black British and from those who had a lasting physical or mental condition or illness that affected their daily activities.
The BSB and the Bank of England say that action is needed.
Accord is calling on TSB to take action too and is offering to work collaboratively with the bank on a joint agenda to deliver positive change.
If you have personal experiences you want to share or you'd like to volunteer to get involved in new Accord networks on race and disability issues, please contact [email protected]
Pay 2021
Accord has reached agreement with TSB to implement the pay offer for 2021 that was published on 1st February alongside proposals for the 2021 variable pay award.
The variable pay award will be paid in March salaries. And the pay rises which are due will be paid in April salaries.
2021 will be a tough year for pay for employees in many parts of the economy. We plan to engage early with TSB on pay for 2022, hopefully against a background of the start of an economic recovery.
If you have views on this that you'd like to share, please email [email protected]
New ways of working post-covid
Following the announcements from the UK government and the devolved administrations in Scotland and Wales, thoughts are turning to what a return to workplaces will look like and when this might happen.
It’s still early days but Accord has been engaging with TSB about 'New Ways of Working' to explore how some of the benefits that partners and the bank have experienced during the restrictions can be retained. TSB is also engaging directly with partners on the issue.
If you have views on new ways of working that you'd like to share, please email [email protected]
Telephone and Video Interviewing (TVI)
We're hearing that there are some teething issues with diary bookings, appointment timings and system issues. We asked the bank and they have confirmed that they're working through these and having regular meetings to address issues as soon as possible.
If you continue to have concerns, raise through the line but please do let us know too. Email our Accord reps in this business area: [email protected] and [email protected].
Telephony Team
As more customers move towards telephone and online for their banking needs, more branch staff have been trained to support the telephony team. We understand that it's still very busy and similar to what the TVI team are experiencing, there are some system and diary faults which can be frustrating.
As above, the bank is aware and continue to work through these. If you have any concerns about these issues, please let us know. Email our Accord rep in this business area: [email protected].
Wellbeing 121s
121s are going ahead across all business areas to focus on your personal wellbeing and how you're coping with working through lockdown and the current restrictions.
We'd encourage everyone to be open and honest about how they're coping - the bank is there to support you if you need it, so don't be afraid to ask for help. If you have any concerns about your 1-2-1, or you'd like to discuss what further support may be available, please get in touch.
Email [email protected].
Adverse weather
Spring is in the air but it may be too soon to say goodbye to winter. The bad weather last month created difficulties for some partners getting to work. And we received a number of queries about these difficulties and the business responses – some of which were disappointing and unhelpful.
Going forward, we'd advise partners to look at the bank's adverse weather guidelines (also available on TSB's intranet). There are various options available to discuss with your manager if you cannot get into work - you shouldn't just be expected to take holiday.
Leaving TSB
Did you know, that if you leave TSB (whether that's because you're moving on to another employer or retiring), you can stay with Accord as an associate member?
Associate membership costs £7.50 per month and means you’ll still be able to access advice, support, guidance and use the benefit schemes. You can switch to associate membership by calling Accord HQ on: 0118 934 1808.
Rep vacancies
Accord reps are the voice of our members and their feedback helps influence our consultation agenda with TSB. We meet with reps weekly, who in turn meet with their area leadership, to discuss local issues. Reps are also there to advise and support members.
We have some available rep positions, so if this is something you think you'd be interested in hearing more about, please get in touch - email [email protected]
Accord reps can get paid time-off for union duties and full training will be provided.
You can view the current list of Accord TSB reps here.
