Case study 1
The problem
A Voice member enjoyed a trouble-free career and was a valued member of the senior management team in her current school. She had worked alongside a colleague for over 12 years when, out of the blue, her colleague accused her of racism. Our member felt her career was coming to a shattering end.
The solution
Disciplinary procedures followed, which we challenged on behalf of our member – every step of the way.
The outcome
All charges brought against our member were dropped.
Testimonial
"This was a frightening experience, but knowing you were there for me made me strong. I don’t know what I’d have done without your support." SEN Teacher, Kent
Case study 2
The problem
As a high school teacher, our member’s competence was unfairly called into question. He found himself having less and less input in the subjects he taught.
The outcome
Our member didn’t want us to fight the issue – he just wanted our help in terminating his contract so that he could leave the school as soon as possible.
The solution
Thanks to Voice, the situation was resolved quickly, with our member receiving more than the normal amount paid to a teacher as severance pay.
Testimonial
"I’d like to say thank you to Voice for the way they handled my case. You made it easy for me to leave my post in a short space of time." Secondary school teacher, Lancashire
Case study 3
The problem
Nursery nurses were upset at the outcome of their re-gradings carried out as part of the Single Status review within a Scottish Council. They felt that their jobs had been devalued, misunderstood and downgraded as the review had produced low scores for nursery staff in areas such as Mental Ability, Responsibility and Management Skills – all required to do the job.
The solution
At a Voice meeting, a collective solution was agreed. Members reviewed the results of the Council’s scoring system, and highlighted certain areas where they felt aggrieved. It was decided to take a group appeal to the Council’s Appeal Panel, which comprised staff from other council services and union representatives. Our members presented their case, and the Council’s human resources representative explained the reason for the scoring.
The outcome
Their appeal was upheld in part - which was the original aspiration. The Appeals Panel was fair and listened to the case as it was presented.
Testimonial
"This was never about money, but about the need to see the work of nursery staff valued by their employers…we believe Voice has certainly made the Council aware of the depth of feeling this case engendered." Nursery nurse and Voice member, Scotland
