Question 1

What is the Certified Grips' and Crane Technicians' Branch?

Accepted Answer

The Grips Branch is a dedicated branch of the trade union Bectu, specifically for Grips and Crane Technicians working within the film and TV industry in the UK. We advocate for fair working conditions, provide support and resources for our members, and work to uphold the standards of our profession.

Question 2

What is a Grip?

Accepted Answer

Click here (https://www.gripsbranch.org.uk/what-is-a-grip)to find out...

Question 3

How do I join BECTU?

Accepted Answer

You can join online (https://bectu.org.uk/join/)or by phone on 020 7346 0900

www.bectu.org.uk/join (www.bectu.org.uk/join)

Question 4

How do I join the Grips Branch?

Accepted Answer

You need to be a member of BECTU before joining the Grip Branch.

Visit the Sign-Up Page. (https://www.gripsbranch.org.uk/sign-up)(www.gripsbranch.org.uk/sign-up) ((www.gripsbranch.org.uk/sign-up))You will be asked to provide a valid BECTU membership number. Once we receive your application, we will check your membership status, details and process it accordingly.

Please do not sign-up via this page if you want to become a Grip Trainee. You will need to apply to become a Trainee here.(https://www.gripsbranch.org.uk/becoming-a-trainee) (www.gripsbranch.org.uk/becoming-a-trainee) ((https://www.gripsbranch.org.uk/becoming-a-trainee))

Question 5

I would like to find a Grip or Crane Technician.

Accepted Answer

Please contact one of the great Diary Services to find excellent Grips and Technicians.

If you have had no luck doing this and wish to submit a job advertisement via our membership please click below.

Please ensure rates comply with our rate card.(https://www.gripsbranch.org.uk/rates-and-terms) If they don’t, they will not be submitted.

Question 6

I have an issue at work, what do I do?

Accepted Answer

If your issue relates to a job offering rate below the rate card or not adhering to Terms and Conditions, please use the "Report a Job" button in the members area (https://www.gripsbranch.org.uk/members-only)or via the App.

If your issue relates to Terms and Conditions on an existing job, please use the Discussion Forum (https://www.gripsbranch.org.uk/discussion-forum/terms-conditions-discussion)or post about it in a relevant Community Group,(https://www.gripsbranch.org.uk/groups) to discuss and report the issue. If its urgent or relates to anything else, please contact us directly via the website's contact button, App chat or email (info@gripsbranch.org.uk). ((info@gripsbranch.org.uk).)

Question 7

How do I contact Grips Branch UK?

Accepted Answer

Click the button in the bottom right-hand corner of the screen labelled "Member's Chat", or if you're on your mobile, the speech bubble icon. Then from the list, click on "Grips Branch UK" at the top of the list. Type your message in the box and press "Enter". Alternatively, you can email us at info@gripsbranch.org.uk.

Question 8

Who can join?

Accepted Answer

Any Grip, Crane Technician, or certified Trainee is eligible to join the Grips Branch, provided they have worked in the UK Film Industry and can prove this.

Question 9

What are the benefits of being a member?

Accepted Answer

Members have access to resources, negotiation support, training programmes, networking events, and a supportive community of Grips and Crane Technicians.

There are also benefits through Bectu Plus & Prospect Plus.

Bectu Plus Benefits:

• Discounts and Offers: Members can access savings on Apple products, travel insurance, gym memberships, airport parking, foreign exchange services, and various leisure activities. (BECTU)(https://bectu.org.uk/about/well-save-you-money/)
 • Health and Dental Plans: These plans reimburse members for everyday medical expenses not covered by the NHS, such as visits to opticians, dentists, and physiotherapists. (BECTU)(https://bectu.org.uk/about/well-save-you-money/)
 • Legal Support: Bectu provides assistance with workplace issues, including legal representation in cases of unfair dismissal or discrimination. (BECTU)(https://bectu.org.uk/member-benefits/)
 • Career Development: The union offers training courses and networking opportunities to support members’ professional growth. (BECTU)(https://bectu.org.uk/member-benefits/)
Prospect Plus Benefits:

• Household Savings: Members enjoy deals on cinema tickets, household appliances, car hire, insurance, and a variety of shopping discounts. (Prospect)(https://prospect.org.uk/about/member-benefits-household-savings/)
 • Health and Wellbeing: Prospect Plus provides access to gym and spa memberships, wellness plans, and coaching services. Health and dental plans offer reimbursements for visits to opticians, dentists, and physiotherapists. (Prospect)(https://prospect.org.uk/news/how-you-can-save-with-prospect)
 • Financial Advice: Members can receive complimentary financial reviews from approved providers and access free debt advice services. (Prospect)(https://prospect.org.uk/money/)
 • Legal Services: Prospect offers a 24-hour legal helpline, personal injury schemes, and a free will-writing service. (Prospect)(https://members.prospect.org.uk/member-benefits/index)

Both Bectu Plus and Prospect Plus aim to provide comprehensive support to their members, enhancing their professional lives and offering valuable personal benefits.

Question 10

Does the Grips Branch host events?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we host several events throughout the year. At the start one each year we hold our AGM, in  April sees the Nick Cupac Memorial Ride, then in May we have the Veteran's Lunch. There is usually another Branch meeting in the Summer.

Other events happen sporadically, and we're open to anyone else suggesting ideas and organizing events on behalf of the branch.

Question 11

How are decisions made within the Grips Branch?

Accepted Answer

The Grips Branch operates democratically, with decisions made through member feedback, committee discussions, and online votes. Members are encouraged to voice their opinions in our discussion forum.

Question 12

Can members propose new initiatives?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We value member input. If you have an idea for an initiative, please reach out to a branch representative or attend one of our meetings to discuss it with the committee.

Welcome to the Certified Grips and Crane Technicians' Branch of Bectu

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