Vice Chairman…}
Treasurer……….} Ray Bush, 178 Canterbury Road, Folkestone, Kent, CT19 5PG. Tel: 01303 257876
MINUTES OF THE EC MEETING HELD IN NPC OFFICES ON MONDAY 25 JULY 2005
1a. Attendance
Richard Sharp Chairman/Acting Secretary
Ray Bush Vice Chairman/Treasurer
Rosemary Haines Minute Secretary
Bill Cobbett EC Member and BP East Grinstead + District Branch
John Whittaker EC Member and UNISON SE Region + W.Sx R/M N
Dave Laws EC Member and Shepway Pensiones’ Forum
Peggy Sandford EC Member and NARPO, West Surrey
Roy Hathaway EC Member and CPAG, Crawley
Derrick Frost Observer (USDAW Mid-Sussex Branch)
1b. Apologies
Joy Shaw Observer and ATW – accident.
Chairman’s remarks.
The Chairman welcomed members to the meeting,
and extended a special welcome to Roy Hathaway who had been elected to
represent Crawley Pensioners’ Action Group. He also hoped that Joy Shaw would soon
recover. Whilst not wanting to prejudice the apolitical nature of SENPeC, he
thought it sad that there had been the re-election of a
Government committed to means testing for Pensioners and this made it all the more important for the
Pensioners’ Movement to campaign vigorously for the aims of the Pensioners’
Charter.
3. Minutes of the previous meeting.
These were proposed, seconded and signed by
Chairman as a true record.
4. Matters Arising.
Peggy Sandford asked whether notice had been
given for organisations for renewal of affiliation fees. Chairman pointed out
that affiliates had been reminded via the last minutes but that individual
bodies had not been written to. Ray Bush said there were only two left to
re-affiliate.
5. Correspondence.
1. Chairman reported that Doug Lawrence no longer has time to produce a newsletter but this may not be necessary in view of the new web-site. The Committee’s thanks went to Doug; he is still the nominated deputy to John Whittaker.
2. A letter and card of sympathy were sent to relatives of the late George Goodfellow. He had been Treasurer of the Greater London Branch.
3. Briefing paper on free local bus travel.
4. Chairman was in correspondence with Help the Aged over setting up Pensioner Forums in the Region. Dave Laws mentioned the
help given in the setting up of Shepway.
5. John Whittaker had sent a fax concerning the existence in Wales of an Older Persons Commissioner. Should we not have one for England?
6. Direct NPC mailshots to affiliates:-
(a) Briefing report on the Third Biennial Delegate Conference. Three main points:
#1. A revised version of the National Constitution was available.
#2. Manifesto campaign was seen as a
success and the resultant Pensioners Charter was welcomed the manifesto
and charter.
#3.An extension of the free passports to cover those over 65 was
being sought.
(b) Correspondence had been received concerning the Pensioners’ Day of Action on 12 October – see appendix ©
There has been a change to the National E-mail address and web-site:-
General messages:- apurshouse@npcuk.org and web:- www.npcuk.org
However, why not access via our web-site link at:- www.senpec.org.uk.
7. Members enquired who was getting the
direct monthly mail-shots from Neil Duncan-Jordan.
Chairman said all affiliated
organisations should get direct mail-shots. Any who were not to please inform
him.
6. Treasurers’ Report and Accounts.
The Treasurer reported that the present balance was £609.23. Annual National affiliation of £200.00 had gone to NPC. Charges of £8.50 and £18.00 (annual charge) had been paid for the web-site. Up to the end of June there were 37 affiliations, which was the same as last year. Chairman gave details that increased this to 41. As we survive by affiliation fees, more of these are needed. To this end, Chairman would write to the GenSecs of all TUC affiliated Unions to make branches in our Region aware of our existence and invite them to affiliate (done). This was another reason why Chairman had started a correspondence with Help the Aged.
7a. Other reports. John Whittaker
(a) John commented on the Council Tax revaluation. See attached addendum for report.
(b) On the subject of public transport, the Government has asked all local authorities to review free transport for older and disabled passengers. A complete report was done at Westminster University – e-mail address wixeys@westminster.ac.uk.
(c) UNISON in Wales – a bill is going through for an Older People’s Commissioner, to tackle poverty, health, social exclusion. England needs one, too, and support is building for this. Bill Cobbett added that he felt pensioners need an auditor at government level. Help the Aged are working on this and he has given his name to Joe Harris. John agreed to work with him.
7b. Web-site
Chairman reported that this was now up and running and to that end, our grateful thanks were recorded to David Ashton of Crawley Pensioners Action Group who had given his time and expertise. Comments so far had been positive as the web-site was seen as a valuable publicity and communications tool.
TO THIS END,
WOULD ANY AFFILIATED ORGANISATION WITH
THEIR OWN WEB-SITE PLEASE LINK TO THE SENPeC SITE. IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A
WEB-SITE, PLEASE LET ME HAVE , BY E-MAIL, A REGULAR UPDATE OF YOUR
ACTIVITIES/PLANNED ACTIONS SO THAT WE CAN PUT THIS INFO OUT.
Chairman also undertook to advise local authorities in our Region of the web-site and invite them to link. (SEERA, County, Unitary, City, District and Town Councils circulated)
7c. Other
The Social Policy on Ageing Information Network (SPAIN) was mentioned. Should we have a representative? Would they affiliate? Age Concern, as well as Help the Aged are involved. There is not enough information about going into care homes, price transparency, contracts, access to complaints vary. Non-funded clients should have the same rights as funded.
Roy Hathaway said council tax increases from April next year could well be double or treble the amount of inflation. This must be campaigned against and pensioners should unite with the broader community.
Derrick Frost from USDAW said that when he was a Councillor in 1989, he wrote to his MP about spiralling Council Tax costs and the problems being caused to pensioners due to house value inflation. The response was useless!!. Additionally, he had recently noted that Councillors’ expenses had rocketed – in one case by 164% and over the last 10 years Council Tax had increased by 101%. He said that
he now pays 20.57% of his income in Council Tax and that the Is It Fair Campaign had highlighted a case of a pensioner had paid 31%. He had sent a report to USDAW asking them to campaign against these unfair increases as Shop workers, as well as pensioners are among the hardest hit.
7d.Pensioners Charter and Day of Action 12 october 2005.
For any one who is not aware of the aims of the Charter, these are that:-
Every man and woman on reaching state pensionable age will have the right to:-
#1. a basic state pension set above the official poverty level and linked to average male earnings.
#2. a warm and comfortable home.
#3. free health care based on clinical need and an annual comprehensive health check.
#4. free community care and services to assist living at home.
#5. free long term care.
#6. free nationwide travel on all public and local transport.
#7. free education, access to and participation in leisure and cultural activities.
#8. goods, services and benefits without age discrimination.
#9. active engagement and consultation on national and local issues affecting older citizens.
#10. advocacy, dignity, respect and fair treatment in all aspects of their lives.
On October 12th, in support of the Pensioners Charter, there will be a rally and a lobby of Parliament. Assemble 11.30 am by St Stephen’s Entrance, House of Commons. Lobbying and speeches from 1pm Westminster Hall, House of Commons…..DO TRY TO ATTEND AND LOBBY YOUR MP. MAKE NO MISTAKE, PENSIONERS MUST GET MPs ON OUR SIDE.
You can also help by arranging to get the Pensioners Charter petition signed within your group and by getting public signatures.
Copies of the Charter and Petition form can be ordered from NPC, 19-23 Ironmonger Row, London EC1V 3QN
7e. Chairman's report from National EC Meeting
This is attached hereto.
8 Any Other Business
Details of how to conduct a petition were presented and are attached
9 Date and Time of Next Meeting
The Meeting ended at
13.30 with thanks to members. Next meeting will be the AGM on Monday 24 October
2005 at 11.30 am. Affiliates are reminded that they must submit motions and
nominations for SENPeC officerships/EC in accordance with the Constitution.
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Vice Chairman…} Ray Bush, 178 Canterbury Road, Folkestone, Kent, CT19 5PG. Tel: 01303 257876
MINUTES OF THE AGM HELD IN NPC OFFICES ON MONDAY 24
OCTOBER 2005
1a. Attendance
Richard Sharp Chairman/Acting Secretary
Ray Bush Vice Chairman/Treasurer
Rosemary Haines Minute Secretary
Bill Cobbett BP East Grinstead + District Branch
Peggy Sandford NARPO, West Surrey
Roy Hathaway CPAG, Crawley
Derrick Frost USDAW (Mid-Sussex Section)
Steve Fagan Ret Sec, CWM Meridian Branch
David Ashton CPAG, Crawley
Olive Holman NUT, Brighton
James Greed TSSA, London
John Sargeant Royal Mail/BT Veterans, Maidstone
Roger Batt Royal Mail/BT Veterans, Maidstone
Bob Walker TGWU RMA, Eastbourne
Ron Cooper CHO, London/SW/Thames
1b. Apologies
John Whittaker UNISON, SE
S. Levy UNISON, Lewes
Neil Tyson TSSA, London/SE/Surrey
Graham Stone TSSA, London/SE/Surrey
Dave Laws Shepway Pensioners’ Forum
Peter Burrows NARPO Brighton
Joy Shaw ATW
Richard Mott NARPO East Kent
2. Chairman’s opening remarks.
The Chairman welcomed members to the meeting, his first AGM as Chairman. He was sure that if the Meeting approved the appointment of a General Secretary, the Region would become more effective in future. At present, there are 41 affiliates and hopefully this number would be increased as more Pensioners’ Forums are set up and made aware of SENPeC. He reported that due to other commitments, Doug Lawrence had not found it possible to produce a newsletter for the Region, but believed that the newly set up web-site would give the Region a very good avenue of publicity which had been lacking during the first year of our existence. David Ashton from Crawley Pensioners’ Action Group has our grateful thanks for setting the web-site up. He has only charged third party fees and is willing to answer any questions you may have concerning the site. The web-site is YOUR vehicle to publicise YOUR activities, not only to existing SENPeC members but within and beyond the Region and it was disappointing to note that only 2 affiliates have, so far, submitted a web page.
10. Guest Speaker (taken out of course)
Following earlier suggestions concerning guest speakers at our open meetings, Christine Melsom of the “Is It Fair” campaign had kindly agreed to speak today. (Members all agreed to hear Christine after these opening remarks rather than later, as it fitted in better with her arrangements.)
Christine Melsom’s was then introduced to the meeting and she gave an outline of the campaign and the general iniquities of council tax, followed by a lively question and answer session. Christine’s address is attached as Appendix 2, and a summary has been posted on our website. She was heartily thanked by all members.
3. Minutes of the previous meeting.
These were proposed, seconded and signed by Chairman as a true record of business.
4. Matters Arising.
James Greed gave a briefing on free bus travel; it seems some councils want to make it local only. Essex have agreed to honour it countrywide but it is not yet law. Various reports indicated that each bus company seemed to have its own policy. The Chairman will write to Joe Harris asking for the latest information on this subject, with specific reference to the reports that Brighton wanted extra subsidies and that Arun were proposing a District Council boundary.
Re screening for prostate cancer, the Chairman had learned from the Chief Executive of the Prostate Cancer Society; via the EC Health Committee; that the American research on the Early Prostate Cancer Antigen was not part of the current work in progress in the UK.
The Chairman reported that in accord with the last meeting, he had sent out letters to the General Secretaries of most Unions asking that any Branches within the SE Region be informed of our existence and inviting such branches to affiliate. Response had been very slow. Likewise he had written to SEERA and all Unitary, County, District and Town Councils within the SE Region inviting them to link into our web-site. Again, response had been slow.
5. Correspondence.
6. Treasurers’ Report and Accounts.
The Treasurer reported that the present balance was £479.26, with one item outstanding. Dave Laws and Glen Dunn had checked that these accounts were in order.
There were now 41 paid up affiliated organisations. Our National affiliation fee of £200 will be due in a couple of months.
7. Other reports
8. Election of Officers
The main changes were that Ray Bush was no longer able to carry on as Acting Treasurer, also that a new Secretary had been found. Peggy Sandford agreed to take on the post of Treasurer.
The Officers, properly proposed, seconded and elected in accordance with our Constitution are:
Chairman Richard Sharp
Vice Chairman Ray Bush
Secretary Steve Fagan
Treasurer Peggy Sandford
The Chairman thanked Ray Bush for his term as Treasurer as well as being Vice- Chairman. Had Ray not agreed to take on the unfamiliar and therefore daunting task of Treasurer, there would not have been a South East Region. He asked that this be specially minuted.
Apart from Constance Fraser being unable to continue to represent Brighton and Hove – one EC place being reserved for her replacement – the Kent and Sussex EC members remain as unchanged with two vacancies. As Peggy Sandford was now an office holder, there would be 3 vacancies for organisations in Surrey. Full details are on our web-site or from the Secretary.
9a Notices of Motions
None received in accordance with the Constitution.
9b Amendments to SENPeC Documents
It was agreed to amend our Constitution to reflect the revised objectives in the National Constitution, as amended at the NPC Biennial Conference held 6/7 April 2005. It was also formally agreed that as a result of the SENPeC elections, any necessary amendments be made to other documents and letterheads. A revised version of the Constitution will be published on the web-site or can be sent by the Secretary.
10 Item taken earlier
11 Any other business
No items as per the Constitution
12 Times and dates of meetings for 2006
Meetings, commencing at 11.30hrs, to be held in the Basement Conference Room of the NPC, were arranged as follows:-
Monday 23 January 2006 EC Meeting – Monday 24 April 2006 Open Meeting
Monday 24 July 2006 EC Meeting – Monday 23 October 2006 AGM (Open Meeting)
POST MEETING NOTE
Rosemary Haines is not able to continue as Minute Secretary. I record my own and the Regions grateful thanks for her stepping into the breach at a very difficult time for me (you should try being Chairman, Secretary and take minutes at the same time!). THIS MEANS WE REALLY DO NEED TO FIND SOMEONE TO TAKE AND PREPARE OUR MINUTES. WE MEET FOUR TIMES A YEAR SO DO WE HAVE A VOLUNTEER FROM WITHIN OUR AFFILIATED GROUPS PLEASE. BOTH MYSELF AND SECRETARY STEVE WILL HELP THE NEW VOLUNTEER GET INTO THE GROOVE.
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Tel: 01323 486573 E-mail: Richard Sharp
Vice Chairman……Ray Bush, 178 Canterbury Road, Folkestone, Kent, CT19 5PG Tel: 01303 257876
Treasurer………….Peggy Sandford, 31 Cunningham Avenue, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 2PE Tel/fax: 01483 5715
MINUTES OF THE EC MEETING HELD IN NPC OFFICES ON MONDAY 23
JAN 2006
1a. Attendance.
Richard Sharp Chairman Ray Bush Vice Chairman
Steve Fagan Secretary Peggy Sandford Treasurer
Roy Hathaway Crawley Pensioners Action Group
Dave Law Shepway Pensioners Forum
A W (Bill) Cobbett British Pensioners East Grinstead and District Branch
1b. Apologies.
Terry Reilly Mid Sussex Older Peoples Council
Sylvia Green UNISON South East Region
2. Chairman’s opening remarks.
The Chairman welcomed those present to the first meeting of 2006 and hoped that the Region would continue to grow and thereby become more organised and able to make a bigger impact when persuing NPC initiatives at local and National level. He reported that as yet, Brighton and Hove District Pensioners had not put forward a nomination to the EC vice Constance Fraser. However, Mid Sussex Older Peoples Council had nominated Terry Reilly to represent that Organisation and Sylvia Green had agreed to represent UNISON in place of John Whittaker. (Both nominees had been accepted by the Chairman and were confirmed by the meeting). Due to the short notice between this meeting and their nomination, it was agreed that apologies should be recorded. The Chairman undertook to send our official welcome to Terry and Sylvia. He also reported that he had accepted an invitation from MSOPC to speak at their forthcoming open meeting.
He was concerned that very little use was being made of our web-site by affiliated organisations and repeated the request that they submitted details of their activities and news letters. Steve Fagan said that he would be in contact with Medway and Canterbury and raise this. Dave Laws would also send Shepway details
He also reminded the meeting that to date there had been NO volunteers from within our affiliated organisations to take on the role of Minute Secretary. This only involved attending 4 meetings a year and producing minutes. If photocopying and/or distribution were a problem, he would arrange this.
Finally Chairman wished to record his thanks to those Organisations who had already re-affiliated and took this opportunity to ask that other affiliated organisations renewed their membership for 2006. Cheques should be sent to our Treasurer, Peggy Sandford at the address on our letterhead.
3. Minutes of the previous meeting.
Subject to the following amendments being made, the minutes
were signed as a true record of business.
1a. Attendance
·
Against Steve Fagan, alter his Branch to read CWU not CW
7. Other Reports
· Add new paragraph at end:- Bill Cobbett said he would persue the question of a Government Pensioners Auditor.
4a.Matters arising and not on agenda.
None
5a. Chairman’s Correspondence.
· The letter to Joe Harris requesting that the problems concerning the prohibitive cost of dentures be raised at the National Health Working Party seems not to have been presented. Dave Laws undertook to convey a copy to Dr Mary Parkinson (Chairman of the Working Party).
· He had had a letter to the Eastbourne Herald published concerning the poor content of the Turner Report.
· Help the Aged seemed to have problems over giving contact details for Forums in Region – Data Protection Act. Bryan Wylde of Help the Aged had been authorised to give Chairman’s details to Forums as a way round this.
· Resignation e-mail from John Whittaker.
· East Sussex County Council had confirmed that an Older Persons Involvement Officer would be stating in February and would be given SENPeC details.
· Tunbridge Wells Borough Council had asked if we wished to be involved in the consultation process over specifics in Tunbridge Wells. As we had no affiliates in that area, it was suggested that our former Chairman, Dave Baker might be interested. Ray offered to send details to him.
5b. Secretary’s correspondence.
· A letter of thanks had been sent to John Whittaker for his active support in setting up the Region and contribution whilst on the EC.
· Joy Shaw had sent a report to Secretary. It was agreed that she be invited to say what she wanted us to do in pursuance of her ongoing campaign.
· Secretary would contact John Appleyard, Chairman of the newly set up Hastings & St Leonards Seniors Forum
6. Secretary’s report.
Secretary reported on his attendance at the latest Regional Secretaries Meeting. The main topic was future action on the Turner Report. Neil Duncan-Jordan wanted all regions to organise some form of action/demo on Saturday 11 March 2006. N.D-J acknowledged that this left very little time. The NPC’s second response to Turner was for 3 simple demands:-
· Raise the basic state pension to £114.05 per week wef April 2006
· Pay it to all existing pensioners
· Restore the link with earnings
However, taking into account the widespread nature of the SE Region, it was
proposed that Regional Affiliates did their own thing in their constituencies such
as card signing and letter writing. Chairman was surprised that a petition
campaign had not been included. Secretary agreed to raise this with N.D-J.
Dave Laws advised that all affiliated organisations had been/were in process of
being direct mailed for requests of posters/publicity etc.
Roy Hathaway said CPAG would try to arrange a coach party to attend the demo
in London. He felt this campaign was vital for today’s and tomorrows pensioners.
A general discussion on pensions/Turner followed.
It was anticipated that this year’s Pensioners’ Parliament would be the best yet. It takes place from 16-18 May in the Winter Gardens, Blackpool. The draft programme is as follows:-
Tuesday 16 May: Traditional march from seafront to the Winter Gardens. A rally in support of the Pensioners’ Charter to which various speakers, including “celebrities,” have been invited. In the evening there are a number of receptions planned including bingo and entertainment at the Royal British Legion (max 300).
Wednesday 17 May: Bills as previously submitted by Organisations/Regions will be discussed. In the evening there will be the main reception with entertainment and raffle in the Ballroom.
Thursday 18 May: Three sessions on pensioner organisations in relation to local government, primary care trusts and transport authorities. After which there will be a report on the Bills agreed and close.
Entrance tickets are £2.50. Cheques payable to N P C send to Pensioners Parliament, NPC 19-23 Ironmonger Row, London EC1V 3QP. Accommodation details from Blackpool Tourism Information Centre on 01253 478222.
7. Treasurer’s report.
The treasurer produced a balance sheet for year ending 31 December 2005. The out-turn was fairly encouraging – at least we were in the black!!. A copy of this is attached as Appendix 2 (NOT FOR WEB-SITE). The question of travelling expenses for Officers and EC Members was raised. Chairman pointed out that we do not, due to limited funds, normally pay such expenses as in past, most affiliated organisations have kindly paid for their delegates. However it was agreed that any future application would be dealt with on merit.
Based on the annual statement, a budget would be prepared for 2006 (Treasurer/Secretary/Chairman to liaise).
Concerning funding, reference was made to the NPC’s
“Tuppence a week” initiative which basically states that:-
The National Pensioners Convention is a campaigning organisation and not a charity. Our financial resources come from affiliation fees and donations, since the NPC is not eligible for many of the grants and ways of raising funds which are open to charities, such as Help the Aged or Age Concern. Affiliated Organisations within the South East pay a maximum of £10 a year affiliation fee in respect of their entire membership. or about 50p per week. The SE Region would like to follow others by introducing the “Tuppence per week” initiative. This involves “selling” individual members of organisations an annual NATIONAL PENSIONERS CONVENTION SUPPORTERS CARD for £1 to cover the financial year 1st January to 31st December. Half the money to go to the National Treasurer and half to the region to help us to remain a realistic campaigning force for pensioners and older people.
If any affiliated organisation is interested in helping the NPC in this way, please let the Treasurer, Secretary or Chairman know and we will supply the cards.
Chairman asked that his thanks to Treasurer for her efforts be recorded. All in agreement.
8. Other EC Members’ reports.
Bill Cobbett presented his report on the introduction of a Government sponsored independent Pensioners’ Auditor (see Appendix 1 – NOT for web). After some discussion, the following notice of motion was proposed by Bill Cobbett and seconded by Ray Bush:-
“The South East Region of the National Pensioners’ Convention wish to bring to attention of the National Executive the case for the installation of a Government funded independent Pensioners’ Auditor; in an appropriate Government Department; to look after the interests of pensioners.
The Region asks that the National Executive persue such provision as a matter of urgency “.
The motion was passed unanimously and the Secretary was charged to send to the NPC General Secretary.
9. Any other business
Dave Laws raised the subject of a Guest Speaker for our next Open Meeting. He suggested someone from the Save the NHS Campaign who could address us with particular emphasis on the issues facing older people. Another possibility could be Dr Mary Parkinson who was Chairman of the NPC Health Working Party.
It was agreed that Dave would liaise with Secretary as a Guest Speaker was considered essential at open meetings if delegates were to be stimulated.
10. Time and date of next meeting.
Monday 24th April 2006 at 11.30 hrs in the NPC Conference Room, Ironmonger Row.
WOULD DELEGATES ATTENDING THIS MEETING PLEASE BRING THESE MINUTES WITH THEM.
Chairman thanked all present for their contribution and
closed meeting at 14.20hrs.
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CHAIRMAN'S REPORTS : NPC NATIONAL EXECUTIVE
Main points from EC meeting 16 February 2006
TRANSPORT: Peter Rayner was still gathering the differing Council proposals from around the Country. At present, the picture is very sketchy with some Councils offering to maintain the “status quo” and others who seem to be offering a lower level and restricting travel to their immediate areas. Seems strange that we can have a nationwide smoking in public ban but we cannot have a nationwide travel scheme.
CAMPAIGNS: Joe Harris mentioned the launch of the Action for Elder Abuse Campaign which was Help The Aged initiative. This would be a feature of their stall at Blackpool. EC Members were adamant that this must not be a cosmetic exercise. It was vital that all aspects of care were covered, particularly staff training, low rates of pay in the care industry and all aspects of “ground level” problems.
We were bitterly disappointed with the content of Turner’s report/proposals for future of pensions. It was understood that the Government would make their response mid-June this year. There was a deadline for submissions; which must be from individuals, not organisations; of 28 February 2006. The NPC’s campaign must continue to address today’s pensioners and go beyond Turner. We were still not being invited to so called consensus meetings.
Answering the general feeling that we should be doing more, Joe pointed out the very limited admin resource at Head Offices disposal. This meant that we had to concentrate on our core issues. Our finances were very meagre with Staff and Office costs being the biggest drain against a very small income. Even assuming we received the same Union support and other grants the budget for 2006 forecasts a significant deficit.
The NPC nationally needs serious financial support. We still cannot get charitable status as we are deemed, by campaigning for the restoration of the link, to be acting in a political manner. We are still the only organisation in the Country who are fighting for a higher state pension. After a discussion, the following points were raised:-
Ø Should affiliates at all levels be asked to pay more? (say 5p or 8p per member per annum?)
Ø Could the TUC help further in this matter? After all, we receive more in grants from Help the Aged and Age Concern than we get from the Unions. We MUST convince the Trade Union Movement that they have to support today’s pensioners to ensure that their working members have a decent state retirement pension.
Ø Should the main emphasis be progressed initially through Brendan Barber of the TUC?
Ø Would our expenditure be less if MP’s sponsored by our affiliated Trades Unions supported our policies rather than toe the Party line? There were some 100 such MP’s and the Government’s majority would vanish if they did’
Ø Should the “Tuppence a Week” cards be sold at Blackpool?
Ø We must all get our own Union to put resolutions of support up to the TUC. I mentioned that such resolutions could be submitted as emergencies if Branches had already finalised their Conference resolutions. I also suggested that Joe should issue a templated resolution to ensure we got he same message across – (watch this space).
PENSIONS ACTION WEEK: This would be from 11th to 18th March with events planned nationwide in support of our 3 prime demands. Leaflets, postcards and a petition form were now available to order from Ironmonger Row.
PENSIONERS’ PARLIAMENT: Vital that all affiliates send official delegates and as many individuals as possible attend. Disappointing to note that so far, there are very few delegates from affiliated Unions. Format of the Parliament so far is:
Ø Day one, March to Winter Gardens as is normal, followed by the opening session consisting of guest speakers – including Rodney Bickerstaffe and support from Ricky Tomlinson (who may now be Royle but who had quite an activist past). Evening bingo and entertainment at the Royal British Legion.
Ø Day two, Discussion of the “Bills” (all amendments to be at Ironmonger Row by 3rd April) followed by the evening social at the Winter Gardens.
Ø Day three, There will be 3 sessions on involvement in local issues – PCTs and NHS Trusts, Local Authorities and PTAs.
WORKING PARTY REPORTS:
Ø FINANCE: Still no joy on charitable status. Plans being made for a Regional Secretaries fund raising seminar.
Ø BLACK AND ETHNIC MINORITIES: Reported that the planned conference in Birmingham had not had much support. Planned to try again later in year.
Ø PENSIONS: Still deliberating. However a NPC booklet on the Priorities of Pension Reform has just been published. It is available from Ironmonger Row for a small charge (£1 or thereabouts). I would recommend this to all affiliated organisations.
Ø The reports from Women, Structure and Health & Care can be downloaded from the National web-site on www.npcuk.org as can many other items.
ANY OTHER BUSINESS
Ø Our motion on the provision of a Pensioners’ Auditor was deferred to the next EC meeting on 20th April
Ø Understood that Pensioners’ Post Office Card Accounts will cease in 2010. Some 200,000 pensioners receive weekly cheques. Will these be targeted also? It was suggested that all existing PO Card Account holders immediately opt for weekly cheques – might also delay the ongoing stealth closures of Post Offices.
Ø The Council tax cushion payment to over 65s not in receipt of Pensions Credit will NOT be paid in 2006. No need to bribe your votes for a few more years!.
END
NATIONAL PENSIONERS CONVENTION
SOUTH EAST REGION ( SENPeC )
Chair .…….Richard Sharp, 3Dittons, Shepham Lane, Polegate East Sussex BN26 6HR
Tel: 01323 486573 E-mail: Richard Sharp
V/Chair… Ray Bush, 178 Canterbury Road, Folkestone, Kent. CT19 5PG
Tel: 01303 257876
Treasurer ..Peggy Sandford 31 Cunningham Avenue, Guildford, Surrey GU1 2PE
Tel: 01483 571546
Secretary ..Steve Fagan, 17 Bankside, Chatham Kent. ME5 0BY
Tel: 01634 826213 E-mail: Steve Fagan
MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD IN NPC OFFICES ON MONDAY 24th APRIL 2006
1. Meeting opened by deputy chairman @ 11-28am.
2. Attendance.
Bill Cobbett (Deputy Chair)
Steve Fagan Secretary
Peggy Sandford Treasurer
Terry Reilly. Mid-Sussex Older Peoples Council
James Greed. Tessa Retired
Dave Laws. Shepway Pensioners Forum
Bob Walker. T.G.W.U. RMA Eastbourne
Ron Cooper. S/West Thames C.W.U.
Mick Dixon. AMICUS Surrey Insurance Branch
Roy Hathaway. C.P.A.G.
Sylvia Green UNISON S/East Region
2(a) Apologies.
Richard Sharpe TSSA L&SE and Old Southeronians Association
Ray Bush. Shepway Pensioners Forum
Joy Shaw. Association of Teachers Widows
3/ Deputy Chairman’s opening remarks.
The dep/chairman welcomed those present to the meeting explaining the reason as to why he was chairing the meeting. This was due to both the Chairman and Vice Chairman being on holiday. An apology was made on behalf of the guest speaker, Mr Peter Draper for his absence which was due to a sudden bereavement in his family.
The dep/chairman commented on the fact that he was committed to giving a report on the provision of a Pensioners Auditor in Parliament. This he was unable to do due to the lack of communication by the NPC executive not replying to his letter. Sylvia Green explained that the notice of motion had been discussed and the NPC officers were actioned to deal with the matter. This was proved to be correct by Alison Purhouse when asked by the Secretary.
4/ Minutes of the last meeting.
These were read and agreed as a true record.
Proposed:- Peggy Sandford
Seconded :- Dave Law.
5/ Matters arising.
Bill Cobbett gave an up to date report on his proposition to introduce a government sponsored independent Pensioners Auditor. There was some concern shown at the lack of movement with regard to the notice of motion submitted to the Executive. The meeting was of the opinion, due to no information being provided, it to had to be seen as a lack of action on behalf of the NPC. The Secretary was instructed to write to Joe Harris and complain about lack of action and information on the matter.
Dave Laws updated the meeting on the new deal concerning the cost of dentures. He reported that there will be a monitoring of the take up which is expected to increase in the future due to the favourable pricing structure.
He reiterated the chairs sentiment concerning the guest speaker and hopefully expects to be able to invite Mr Draper to a future meeting.
6/ Correspondence.
The secretary reported that he had written to all our affiliates, sending them copies of the minutes from the last meeting, an agenda and, a gentle reminder about their affiliation fees. The correspondence to our affiliates included information about the guest speaker and the subject that he would be speaking about. “IS THE N.H.S. IN GREAT DANGER”. The meeting was also informed, the secretary had sent a letter with the notice of motion to Joe Harris. We are still awaiting a reply.
7/ Secretary’s Report.
Having attended the regional secretary’s meeting with Joe Harris, the secretary outlined the concerns show about the finances of the movement.
There was a long discussion centred around ways and means of improving the financial future of the NPC, ideas were put forward of which many will be acted upon and a report will be issued to regions.
The main topic of the meeting was the forthcoming Pensioners Parliament in Blackpool. The expectancy for this to be the best attended was apparent, judging by the requests for delegate credentials. A bigger and better variety of speakers have shown an interest in the proceedings, including a participant from the student’s union. The secretary hoped that the South East Region would send a good delegation from the area.
8/ Treasurer’s Report.
The treasurer reported to the meeting that there had been a very poor response to the letter which had been posted to all our affiliates. Up to the day of the meeting, only 13 of the 45 affiliates had sent their fees. There then followed a lively discussion on how we can best overcome our financial problems. It was agreed that there was a degree of ambiguity regarding affiliation fees. Delegates felt that when fees were forwarded to the NPC, members thought they had then joined SENPeC. Many of the members attending the meeting concurred that we have to introduce some new form of money raising initiative and we also had to clarify to our affiliates that remitting fees to the national body, is not a combined fee.
The secretary suggested a meeting with the chairman , himself and the treasurer to draw up a letter that will express all our concerns about finances and affiliations which should be sent to them explaining our the situation. This was agreed.
9/ Other Reports.
Terry Reilly reported his ongoing struggle regarding his council tax payments and how it is all panning out. He related his problems and how these are being overcome. There were many facets to this battle for which he had received tremendous support, and he thanked all concerned.
Dave Law outlined the future campaigns regarding saving the N.H.S. and hoped that we would give them our full support.
He expressed his concern that we cannot allow the propaganda which supports private enterprise within the NHS to materialise and cancel out all the good work that has been done to prevent the privatisation of our Health Service.
With regard to a speaker for a future meeting, he will contact Mr Draper and hopefully encourage him to speak to us.
10/ Any other business
There was a late apology for Derrick Frost from ASDAW.
The secretary was asked to contact a Mr Hollamby, Chairman of AMICUS, East Kent Branch, with a view to affiliating to SENPeC.
11/ Date of next meeting
The date of the next meeting will be Wednesday 26th July 2006.
There being no further business the Deputy chairman closed the meeting at 13:25
NATIONAL PENSIONERS CONVENTION
SOUTH EAST REGION ( SENPeC )
Chair .…….Richard Sharp, 3Dittons, Shepham Lane, Polegate East Sussex BN26 6HR
Tel: 01323 486573 E-mail: Richard Sharp
V/Chair… Ray Bush, 178 Canterbury Road, Folkestone, Kent. CT19 5PG
Tel: 01303 257876
Treasurer ..Peggy Sandford 31 Cunningham Avenue, Guildford, Surrey GU1 2PE
Tel: 01483 571546
Secretary ..Steve Fagan, 17 Bankside, Chatham Kent. ME5 0BY
Tel: 01634 826213 E-mail: Steve Fagan
___________________________________________________________________________
Minutes of meeting held on Monday 24th July 2006
The Chair opened the meeting @ 11-38 am.
1/ Members Present
R. Sharp, S. Fagan, P. Sandford, M. Dixon, A.W. Cobbett, R. Hathaway,
O. Holman and D. Ashton.
2/ Apologies.
T. Reilly, D. Laws, R. Bush, S. Green and J. Shaw.
3/ Chairs’ Opening Remarks.
The chair welcomed Mick Dixon and Dave Ashton to the meeting. He stated that the turnout for the previous ( open ) meeting was dismal and considering a guest speaker had been invited, the turn out would have been very embarrassing if he had turned up. He made it clear that maybe SENPeC had reached a crossroads and probably the structure wasn’t working. He posed the question, that it could be something to do with his style of chairmanship and the time had come for a change. Another point he made was that the affiliates are not using the Web-Site to its full advantage. He further re-iterated his belief that the N.P.C. have become too low profile. The organisation as a whole is too quiet and needs to have some tub thumping and real pressure brought to bear on the media. Organisations like “Help the Aged and Age Concern” seem to receive favour