The forms and fact sheets have recently been updated following a review of the enquiry process. If you need to submit an application, please use the updated SM R9 EA application from the website.
Bulk protection of pay
The universal bulk protection of pay spreadsheet and reply template has now been removed from the website. This was a provision put in place during the period from 2010 to 2012 to cover large national reorganisational changes following Agenda for Change. Receipt of bulk protection of pay requests has gradually reduced over time with each spreadsheet only included a handful of members.
Any outstanding bulk spreadsheets already submitted will be processed as normal but employers should now use the SM R9 EA application form for all protection of pay requests going forward. The historic bulk protection of pay guidance remains available on the fact sheet for reference purposes.
Time limits
Employers are reminded to submit the SM R9 EA application within the regulatory 3 month time limit for applying for protection of pay and after 12 months but before 15 months for voluntary protection of pay. Failure to do so may result in rejected applications. Requests for an extension of these time limits will now only be considered in exceptional circumstances as detailed in the fact sheet.
Reason for the reduced pay
The application for both the member and employer now asks for a detailed description of why the pay has been reduced which will help avoid unnecessary follow up enquiries.