Get Help
Local support
Personal Cases arise when a member has difficulty with their employment. These problems include issues arising from: probation; CDSA; performance; absence; ill-health; unpaid leave; study leave; work-related stress and depression; and, bullying and harassment. Instead of trying to deal with problems alone union members can contact the branch for advice and support. We have several trained personal caseworkers based centrally and around the country, including ALs. You probably won’t be the first person to approach the branch with a particular issue, so we have a great deal of experience to draw on.
The examples of problems quoted above are covered by the various policies and procedures the University has in place. Most problems can be dealt with via advice to the member on their rights under these policies, and what to do to protect them. The advice can be given by e-mail, phone, or in person, whichever is most appropriate to the enquirer. However, there are occasions when the union representative accompanies the member to a meeting with their unit and/or HR, perhaps to “clear the air” via informal means. Regretfully, there are occasions when the caseworker has to be present at formal proceedings to ensure the member is adequately represented and defended, as for example, in probation review meetings. Happily, we manage to sort most problems via informal methods but we are extremely effective at the formal ones as well.
So, if you do want any advice on employment related problems, contact us – your case will be treated in confidence when you contact us.
email mailto:ucu@open.ac.uk
NB: Non-members please note - while individual caseworkers may agree to give initial advice on your problem, they are not obligated to do so. Nor are you eligible for legal representation via the union