Sanction concerns

PCS is opposed to the stricter benefits regime which it sees as part of an ideological attack on the welfare state with “ministers demanding increased benefit sanctions to divert attention from their failing economic policies.”

The union was not consulted about the changes and is also concerned about the consequences of the new policy on the health and safety of its members: “They work on the front line, and may be expected make more referrals in circumstances where the consequence for the claimant and their dependants will be more severe. There is a clear concern over the health and safety and welfare of staff in this stressful position. The new regime is certain to generate more conflict, and members are rightly expressing concern about how this will be managed.”

The union is advising branches to ensure that they are consulted and fully involved in reviewing local health and safety risk assessments to take account of the changes, and that these risk assessments are reviewed regularly as the sanctions become more severe over time.

PCS is also advising members to “continue to exercise discretion under the rules, and not be pressurised into accepting targets for referrals. Members are fully within their rights to reject any form of overt or covert target setting in this area.”

The union has said it will continue to raise this issue as an urgent matter, and will be issuing further advice.