UCU and prison education provider PeoplePlus agree recognition deal

UCU and prison education provider PeoplePlus have today signed a recognition deal that will allow staff to be represented by the union on key issues.

The agreement includes a commitment from PeoplePlus to formally consult UCU about decisions which could have a major impact on jobs, and to inform the union about changes to working practices. UCU reps will also be entitled to time off for trade union activity.

The agreement means that UCU is now officially recognised by all prison education providers in England.

UCU general secretary, Sally Hunt, said: 'This agreement is a welcome step for prison education staff employed by PeoplePlus, and for industrial relations in the sector as a whole. Prison education is vitally important for the rehabilitation of offenders, and comes with unique challenges so it's important that teaching staff are properly supported in their work.'

PeoplePlus director for strategy, Kevin Rodger, said: 'PeoplePlus has an established working relationship with UCU and this agreement is a natural next step for our partnership. We share a joint commitment to provide outstanding prison education and a core belief in the unique role teaching staff play in the rehabilitation of offenders.'