Public & Commercial Services Union

PCS is a Trade Union with 320,000 members, 300 staff and 12 UK sites, based in Clapham Junction.

Questions answered by Julian Burton, Facilities Manager.

Why did you join IHP?

Because as a member, the discounts available as a ‘national account' were greater than the cost of membership.

What benefits has IHP generated for your organisation?

National account status, administrative savings through central billing, source of expert information and financial savings.

How has IHP helped your organisation maximise the savings available to you?

It has increased the % discount given by suppliers and my time has been saved as IHP source solutions so I don't have to.

Tell us about a recent project that IHP has helped you with.

IHP helped us install air conditioning at the Liverpool office by sourcing the equipment supplier and installation engineer.

Do you find using IHP cost effective in terms of time and effort? How?

Yes, an email or phone call is all that is needed to set a project going. IHP do the ‘leg work' and offer a range of solutions so I can choose which is best for PCS.

What are the most useful elements of IHP's dedicated client service?

Their knowledge of the service sector and their ability to find a solution even if the product isn't currently offered in their portfolio, i.e. fleet fuel cards.

What savings do you expect to make annually?

It's difficult to say on utilities and special projects, but we save approx. £5k on catering.

How will your members benefit from the savings you make?

Lower running costs for provision of facilities will mean money can be redirected to other areas of the union.

How has central billing helped to streamline your purchasing?

It allows us to make one single monthly payment for catering and utilities with any discrepancies being chased by CEL.

What would you say to other healthcare providers that are considering becoming a member of IHP?

IHP do actually work hard to save money for the organisation, they are always approachable and are keen to provide a solution allowing you the time to run other parts of your business.