Public services across Scotland are facing some of the most significant challenges in decades. The Scottish government has announced plans to reform public services, cut jobs and slash millions from public service budgets. As proposals for public service reform develop, UNISON Scotland and our branch are clear that our members must have a strong voice in shaping what comes next; and that we will challenge any plans to further cut jobs and services.
The implications for local government and the community and voluntary sector are stark. Driven by cost cutting, a huge transformation in how local services are governed and delivered is planned. What this means was set out in the Programme for Government on 1 September. Details are sparse, however, UNISON Scotland has published a briefing setting out what is known about public service reform and local government at this stage.
In a joint statement to branches and activists, UNISON Scotland convenor Mark Ferguson and deputy convenor Louise Noble set out how the union will engage with reform proposals, represent members’ views and challenge decisions that put jobs or vital public services at risk. Reform must not become a smokescreen for cuts, or mean asking already stretched workers to deliver more with less.
Mark said: “As Scotland’s largest union we have a significant contribution to make to any discussions about public services. Our members understand better than anyone where systems work, where they could work better, and how services can be improved to meet changing needs. The voices and experience of workers must be at the heart of any changes to public services.
“Our message to UNISON members across Scotland is clear: you will not face this period of change alone. UNISON Scotland will continue to stand up for you and for the vital services you deliver.”
Louise added: “Public service workers should not have to rely on rumours or speculation about what reform could mean for their jobs, workplaces or services. There has never been a more important time to be in UNISON. Together, we will challenge the Scottish government, ask the difficult questions, make sure the voices of our members are heard and stand up for the future of our public services.”