Refused Case Management Restructure

Local PCS reps meet with RCM management

Your PCS Representatives met with RCM Management on 7 January regarding proposals for the next stage of Refused case Management(RCM)restructuring; specifically the reallocation of staff resources following the phasing out of Further Leave workstreams in Liverpool with this work moving to FHRU.

PCS are pleased that, despite recent uncertainty about the future of RCM, proposals presented involved no requirement for redundancy measures and whilst there is a reduction in the number of AO grade staff as was expected this is in the context of an overall increase of headcount in the department recently but largely at EO and above.

The department outlined the proposals for future roles for those affected by the moving of further leave work and discussed some of the finer detail.

The key changes will see:

• HEO’s moving to Further Submissions with no substantial change to their role;
• EO Decision Makers moving to Further Submissions with most already undertaking training;
• EO Line Managers and SCWs undertaking a preference exercise including Decision Maker, Safeguarding and work flow related roles available;
• AOs - circa 40 individuals being roughly halved with an option to remain in RCM due to an ongoing requirement for AO Caseworkers and Admin functions or alternatively the option Caseworker roles on the Euro Settlement Scheme.

Affected staff have been informed in meetings held with the Grade 5, Neil Forshaw and written communication as well as job descriptions and exact details of the preference exercise are due to be provided to staff on 13 January. Whilst your PCS reps have not been involved in the formation of these restructuring proposals we are in broad agreement that a preference exercise is the most suitable way forward that gives members the most opportunity to take control over what their future role will be.

Whilst PCS will be seeking regular updates during the process we would encourage all members seeking assistance or clarity on the preference exercise to speak to their managers in the first instance but if anyone has a specific issue that they feel requires union advice or representations to get in touch here.