THE NEW PRS (PRP) SCHEME WITHIN DHL
How Does This New Scheme Affect You?
We have recently learned that DHL are allowing GMB reps and officials to visit sites promoting the introduction of the new PRP scheme. The UDW have been given no information or any consultation on this scheme whatsoever. (Read our warning in November 2006 regarding this proposed scheme)
The “Performance Related Scheme” (PRS) supposedly agreed by the GMB union is definitely far worse than the existing scheme, and indeed, having read the scheme, it contains some extremely contentious issues in relation to couriers having the chance to subsidise their earnings.
With the drop rate remaining the same, 80 pence per multi drop, and comparing on a like for like basis as overtime, a courier will still be underpaid unless he is willing or capable of achieving drops way past his benchmark; and yes, the new scheme carries with it an increase in benchmarks for all. Note that the new scheme still does not include nightshift, warehouse or administration workers.
Bulk rates have also been targeted, the additional payment known as parcel rate has ceased in favor of a fixed drop rate. The scheme will operate on a points system and although timed deliveries will be granted double points, the courier will be docked the equivalent points for failed deliveries.
The allocation of hours for other duties (bank runs, trip collections, travel time) have also been eroded, bank and trip runs will be paid as a drop rate. The scheme will have an opt in-opt out clause, meaning, if a courier chooses to opt out, he/she could possibly lose their run.
These are just a few of the highlighted points of the scheme, but as we all know, nothing is ever done in favour of the employee. It would be pointless asking local management about the scheme, because it has not been communicated to them fully.
We believe, because the scheme forms part of couriers working practices, and the adverse effect it will have, it should be higher management that should be informing drivers about the change and not representatives from any union.
The UDW’s National Executive has written to DHL for the past two months requesting full consultation and information rights in connection with this scheme. Depending on the outcome of this request and any effect on our members, the UDW will not hesitate to mount a legal challenge to the new scheme and its forced imposition.
With all this in mind, the UDW strongly advises all members and non union employees to boycott any meetings with the GMB, concerning any issue that will have a detrimental impact on earnings, and demand full consultation with higher management.
Please contact the UDW for advice & support 0845 417 2140 or any of the regional representatives here.
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