Union conference highlights and looking ahead: A message from Ged
Welcome to the latest edition of our online magazine for members!
In this edition, we cover the highlights from our union’s biennial delegate conference held in April, which already feels like a distant memory.
I thoroughly enjoyed the conference. The guest speakers from LBG, TSB, the TUC, and the STUC were fantastic, but the best part was celebrating our shared union values with so many wonderful workplace reps. Each delegate was a credit to themselves and to you – the members they represent.
We've already begun the hard work to pursue the objectives set by the Conference, as the pace of change in our industry remains relentless.
Reflecting briefly on the past, the pay deals with LBG and TSB, with a 4% increase for most employees, look strong as inflation begins to decline. However, there is still a general feeling that people aren't better off than before the pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis.
This brings us to the general election and the significant questions facing the country. Accord has no political affiliations and does not support any political party. The union adheres to the Electoral Commission’s Code of Practice on the laws relating to non-party campaigner spending, and I’m pleased to confirm that no members’ funds are used for party political purposes.
Nevertheless, the election is extremely important, and we encourage all members to vote. For those who have chosen to get personally involved, we wish you well.
What we all need is a functioning and stable government committed to economic growth, a sustainable environment, and decent public services – especially health and education.
After the 4th of July, once the election is over and we have a new government, I hope for a shared sense of purpose and optimism, followed by meaningful and transformative actions.
In the meantime, as always, our President, the Principal Executive Council members, all Accord’s staff, and I will work tirelessly to protect and promote your employment interests.
Thank you for being a member of Accord. If you can, please encourage your colleagues to join us if they aren’t currently members of Accord or Unite.
We haven’t increased our subscription rates since 2019 and continue to provide excellent services to members every day.
Very best wishes,
Ged
