Casework

Help & Support

If you are having problems at work we can support you in two ways: advice and representation.

  • Advice – providing, explaining and signposting to resources relating to your work issue (see below)
  • Representation– for more complex cases where you get a dedicated caseworker that works with you throughout the case, attends meetings with you and represents your position

To access Representation, your work issue must have occurred after joining UCU.

For new joiners where the work issue arose prior to joining UCU we will assess and feedback on each request and will factor in:

  • If a case is of collective nature (ie. it involves multiple UCU members) and/or if it has significant legal and/or collective implications.
  • If a case warrants a referral to UCU Legal (note that the majority of cases do not require legal services and are resolved locally).

Caseworkers are always assigned outwith your School or service to avoid any conflict of interest. Please note, Caseworkers are volunteer members and due to high demand at times you may have to wait until one is available to take your case.

If you are unsure your situation requires a Caseworker, and you need Advice please contact the Casework Coordinator or speak to your School or Service rep, listed here.

If you require individual Representation (casework) for an employment related matter please download and complete this form UCU Casework Form offline and send it to the HWUCU Branch Office at ucu@hw.ac.uk & Casework Coordinator. Please note the HWUCU Branch Administrator is part-time.

Examples of issues we typically support members with

  • Bullying and harassment
  • Grievances
  • Disciplinary
  • Contract (fixed term, zero hours etc)
  • Reasonable Adjustments
  • Redundancy

If there is a legal implication to your case there are strict time limits (usually 3 months minus a day) relative to the date of the “event” so it’s important to raise a casework request as soon as possible. It is your responsibility to provide specific dates of the relevant issues in your case (e.g. the date(s) on which discrimination or bullying occurred) to allow your caseworker to identify and advise on these legal time limits. Please include these dates within your casework form if possible.

Legal Services

Most cases are resolved locally but when legal services are required your case may be referred to the UCU Legal Scheme. This scheme covers issues such as employment rights, personal injury (including workplace stress), police and immigration problems. You can find further information at the above link.

Becoming a Caseworker

Caseworkers are volunteer members who accompany other members to meetings with management and provide advice on procedures. Being a Caseworker involves advising members of their choices so that they can follow their own path. It is a very rewarding role and UCU provide regular opportunities to access training for Caseworkers.

If you are interested in becoming a Caseworker please contact the Casework Coordinator or the HWUCU Branch Office at ucu@hw.ac.uk.