Cardiff rep awarded MBE for services to the union

Prominent activist Fiona Whyte has been awarded an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list, for her voluntary service to PCS in Wales.

Fiona has been involved in the union and supported countless members for more than 35 years, having joined at just 17 years old.

A former PCS Cardiff branch chair, she is now their equality rep.

Her presence in the Welsh Government group has been keenly felt and her effectiveness at getting results is an inspiration to other
reps. She has led their equalities work, lobbying management and supporting those suffering from discrimination. Her exemplary work on bullying and harassment led to significant improvements in how staff are supported. She has also helped to raise thousands for homeless charities, environmental concerns, equalities groups and PCS members in hardship.

“I was shocked to say the least,” she said of the MBE. “As many know, being a rep is hard work, and it’s often without thanks. But we don’t do it for thanks, we do it to make a difference and hopefully make life better.

“In accepting the honour, I felt it was a recognition that – contrary to what is often in the press – union reps do good work and make a valuable contribution to the lives of their members,” she added.