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embargo: For immediate release PCS union workplace learning centres achieve matrix StandardFour Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union-led workplace Learning Centres in the North East have just been awarded a national quality standard for their delivery of information, advice and guidance on learning and work. The four learning centres are based at Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) in Newcastle and Peterlee, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) site at Tyneview Park, Longbenton and the Passport Service in Durham, and are the first workplace PCS learning centres to achieve the matrix Standard. Each centre is part of several union learning projects run throughout the Civil Service departments by PCS and partners to help union members and staff improve their skills and take advantage of the learning opportunities they can provide. All four of the projects have all been, or are still, supported by unionlearn* with the Northern TUC's Learning for All Fund - a pot of money to help trade unions set up workplace learning initiatives. Turning 2 Learning (DWP), Access to Learning (HMRC) and Passport to Learning (Passport Service) are all successful projects with over 90 Union Learning Reps (ULRs) that between them have helped 2000 people back into learning. Such is the commitment of the ULRs that 20 are now trained to offer expert level information, advice and guidance to their colleagues, having gained a Level 4 qualification; a professionalism that helped earn them the matrix, and a recommendation that they go forward for the Excellence award. Jan Gifford, PCS Lifelong Learning Officer said: 'Achieving the matrix is testament to all of the ULRs' dedication and professionalism. To have achieved this quality standard across four centres is amazing and just goes to show that there is very much a place for union learning. I'm really proud to have been a part of this.' David Smith, matrix Standard Assessor said, ' It was a joy to assess the PCS, staff were committed and passionate about providing the best possible support. Indeed, there was overwhelming positive comment from all staff interviewed on the easy access, approachability and high quality support from the ULR* teams. 'The interviews demonstrated a service that not only met the detail of the matrix Standard but also demonstrated the 'spirit' of matrix, to be welcoming, encouraging and enabling.' Barney McGill, unionlearn Regional Manager said: 'All of the hard work put in by the project partners, and indeed the learners, has made these projects successful and this is reflected in their collective achievement. To get one centre matrix accredited is not easy, let alone four, so PCS and everyone involved deserve hearty congratulations.' NOTES TO EDITORS: All unionlearn press releases can be found at www.unionlearn.org.uk Media enquiries: Susanne Nichol T: 0191 227 5553 M: 07771873108 E: snichol@tuc.org.uk Press release (500 words) issued 3 Mar 2008 |
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