Serco : and Unite the Union sign landmark National Framework Agreement

Serco and Unite the Union have signed a landmark National Framework Agreement which sets out the high level terms of engagement between the two organisations in the UK Defence sector.

The agreement establishes the terms of reference for the working relationship, wherever Unite is the Trade Union recognised by Serco in its Defence business, including dispute resolution, health and safety, facility time etc.

Serco's Defence business provides a wide range of support services to the UK's armed forces and employs 3500 people at bases around the country.

Paul McCarter, Serco's Managing Director, Defence, said:

'Serco is committed to having a constructive relationship and working together with the trade unions that represent our employees.

'Every day of the year Serco's employees provide support services for the Royal Navy, Royal Air Force and the Army. Much of this go unseen, but they are critical to the nation's defence. Therefore this landmark agreement is an important step forward and it is testament to Serco and Unite's commitment to working together for our future success.'

Mike McCartney, Unite National Officer - MOD & Government Departments sector, said:

'Unite has worked in partnership with Serco for the past 25 years across the Ministry of Defence account and this agreement shall underpin our working relationship for the future. This agreement demonstrates that Serco value the input of Unite and we believe that it sets the foundation for how we shall work professionally together to aid the business success which provides our members with increased job security and appropriate reward.'

Serco has engaged with Unite National Officers covering Health and Local Government to sign similar framework agreements to cover Serco's Health and Direct Services business units.

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