Cancellation service n°1 in United Kingdom
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Ending your PCS membership made easy
About the Public and Commercial Services Union
The Public and Commercial Services Union (PCS) constitutes one of the United Kingdom's largest trade unions, representing approximately 170,000 members across various sectors of employment. Established in its current form following the merger of the Public Services, Tax and Commerce Union (PTC) and the Civil and Public Services Association (CPSA) in 1998, PCS operates as a democratic organisation providing representation, advocacy, and support services to workers predominantly employed within the civil service, government agencies, and public sector organisations.
In accordance with the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992, PCS functions as a registered trade union with specific legal obligations and protections. The union's primary jurisdiction encompasses employees working in government departments, including His Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC), the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), the Ministry of Justice, and numerous other public bodies. Furthermore, PCS extends its membership to workers in private sector organisations that deliver public services through outsourcing arrangements.
The contractual relationship between PCS and its members is governed by the union's rulebook, which constitutes a legally binding agreement establishing mutual rights and obligations. This document delineates the terms of membership, subscription payment requirements, disciplinary procedures, and the processes through which members may terminate their affiliation. Understanding these contractual provisions proves essential for any member contemplating cancellation of their membership.
PCS provides a comprehensive range of services to its membership base, including industrial representation during disciplinary proceedings and grievance procedures, legal assistance for employment-related matters, professional indemnity insurance, and collective bargaining representation. The union also offers educational programmes, campaigning activities, and welfare support services. These benefits form part of the consideration provided in exchange for membership subscriptions, thereby establishing the contractual quid pro quo inherent in the membership agreement.
Membership categories and subscription structures
The Public and Commercial Services Union operates a tiered subscription structure predicated upon members' gross annual salary, thereby ensuring proportionate contribution rates aligned with earning capacity. This graduated payment system reflects principles of equity and affordability whilst maintaining the union's financial sustainability. The subscription rates are subject to periodic review and amendment through democratic processes involving the union's National Executive Committee and Annual Delegate Conference.
Standard membership rates
The following table illustrates the current subscription structure applicable to standard PCS membership, calculated as a percentage of gross annual salary:
| Annual Salary Range | Monthly Subscription | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Up to £15,000 | £13.50 | £162.00 |
| £15,001 to £20,000 | £16.75 | £201.00 |
| £20,001 to £25,000 | £19.50 | £234.00 |
| £25,001 to £30,000 | £22.50 | £270.00 |
| £30,001 to £35,000 | £25.50 | £306.00 |
| Over £35,000 | £28.50+ | £342.00+ |
Reduced rate and special category memberships
PCS acknowledges that certain members may experience financial constraints or particular employment circumstances warranting adjusted subscription rates. Consequently, the union offers reduced rate membership for individuals who are unemployed, retired, or in receipt of certain state benefits. These concessionary rates typically amount to approximately 50% of standard subscription levels, subject to verification of eligibility status.
Student members and apprentices benefit from specially designated subscription rates reflecting their limited earning capacity during training periods. Furthermore, members on extended periods of unpaid leave, including those taking career breaks or parental leave, may apply for temporary subscription relief or suspension arrangements. Such provisions demonstrate the union's recognition of diverse membership circumstances whilst maintaining the contractual relationship.
Payment mechanisms and collection procedures
The predominant method for subscription collection involves direct deduction from salary through the employer's payroll system, commonly referred to as \