It mystifies me why the change to direct employment hasn't caught on.
Some of the problem is the UEO himself - if he doesn't understand (or want the hassle) the advantages of direct employment then nothing happens.
Some UEO's don't get a look in because their procurement office/accountants override him anyway!
The service providers aren't going to rock the boat as long as the status quo continues. They are making a modicum of profit and they are comfortable with that. Why try to take the lead and try to advise the police that it would make sense to up the salaries of the pilots (hence put in a higher bid during the next renewal date) only to be undercut by some cutthroat competition?
There will always be someone out there who thinks they can do it cheaper.
They will always win as long as incoming pilots accept lower and lower salaries. And once the military pool dries up (hasn't it already) they will take civviy self improvers with unknown backgrounds (nothing wrong with that - provided they are well trained) who will accept peanuts just to get a foothold. You've only got to read other threads to learn there are pilots out there who will sell their granny for a job!
Direct employment doesn't have any
problems . I think you are confusing this type of employment which protects the employee from bad practice, poor conditions and no protection......with contract work conditions!!!
Remember - the maximum working week/overtime/sickness benefit etc is a RIGHT, not a problem
Our unit has been DE for 12 years. On 2 occasions there has been serious illness (cancer and RTA) each averaging 10-12 months off sick - on both occasions, the insurance paid for relief pilotage. No-one batted an eyelid, least of all the police/insurer. Our premiums are still as competitive as ever today.
The beauty of direct employ is LOYALTY. In return for being looked after by the employer on all fronts, you commit yourself to achieving the best for that unit.
You go that extra mile for flexible shift times.
You watch every penny being spent on service provision.
You advise the force on bad practice without any come back from that provider (threats to wind your neck in).
You advise on the best equipment.
You take a personal pride in your a/c and its operation because you are one of the team.
Etc Etc.
And finally - DE IS cheaper than contract, make no mistake about it. I've seen the figures and I've done the maths, time and time again. There is not much in it and it depends on various factors (FDP's / No. of pilots / perks etc).
It is up to each pilot to make their mark:
Educate your UEO - work to rule with your contractors.
No-ONE els is interested. Not the public, not the Home Office, not the CAA.
