Community secures recognition agreement with Campsfield IRC

We are proud to announce a major milestone for Community members at the Campsfield Immigration Removal Centre (IRC) that we have secured a formal union recognition agreement with Mitie.

This marks the beginning of a new chapter for both Community members and non-members working at the site. From Custody and Detention Officers to welfare and educational staff, this recognition agreement ensures that your voice is not just heard, but also a vital part of the decision-making process at Campsfield IRC.

Community National Secretary, Gavin Miller said:

This agreement between Community and Mitie demonstrates both parties commitment to ensuring that Campsfield IRC will be a success now and in the years to come. After visiting the site, and seeing the work of Harriet Hancock and the team, it is clear that the site is being organised with staff welfare and delivery in mind. I was certainly impressed with the teams professionalism and dedication, even at this early stage. I have no doubt that this working relationship will go from strength to strength and I am excited about Community’s role in the development of Campsfield IRC.

Mitie Mobilisation Director, Harriet Hancock said:

I am delighted to confirm that a Recognition Agreement has now been signed with Community Union for Campsfield IRC. The introduction of a recognised union presence reinforces our commitment to providing staff with clear, accessible channels for representation and support. It was a pleasure to meet Gavin Miller from Community Union and to discuss how this partnership will enhance engagement and strengthen our organisational culture.

Through recognition, Community can now bargain collectively over essential terms like pay and hours, supported by a commitment to early consultation on any major changes at the site.

Furthermore, a Joint Consultation and Negotiation Council (JCNC) will be established and meet monthly to ensure our members are kept up to date with any changes.

In addition, Community Reps on-site will be encouraged to advocate for our members while also receiving guaranteed professional training, legal protections and time off to undertake their duties as reps, as well as access to site facilities to undertake their role.

Mitie has also pledged an open and honest information sharing policy, as well as a structured dispute resolution process to ensure issues are settled fairly. Community members on the site will also benefit through a commitment to career growth, anti-discriminatory practices and enhanced workplace safety.

By signing this agreement, Mitie has shown that they are committed to positive industrial relations with Community and to ensure that their members and their rights are properly represented and upheld.

We look forward to working with Mitie to make Campsfield IRC a safer and fairer place for our members to work.