Are you interested in getting more involved in your union? We are always happy to hear from
members who would like to be more active.
There are several different kinds of representative:
Workplace contacts
have a more informal role than stewards or safety representatives. They
can also operate as part of a network supporting an elected steward, as well as
Making sure members receive union and other important information
Helping groups of members to organise effectively
Maintaining contact between members and the union where there is an elected steward
Supporting other activists such as stewards and health and safety reps
Stewards
are the backbone of UNISON. Without stewards there would be no one there to act
as the link between members and the union and to organise and support people in the
workplace. As a steward you can:
Talk to, recruit and organise members around workplace issues
Talk to members about workplace problems, advice them and keep them informed of latest developments
Represent members in your workplace
Be involved in how your branch and union is run.
Health and safety
reps work to make the workplace as safe as possible. They can
Make representations to the employer on behalf of members on any health, safety and welfare matter
Represent members in consultation with Health and Safety Executive inspectors or other enforcing authorities
Inspect designated workplace areas at least every three months
Investigate any potential hazards, complaints by members and causes of accidents, dangerous occurrences and diseases
Branch officers
are elected by their workforce to play different roles, including: Branch Chair,
Branch Secretary, Branch Treasurer, Equalities Officers, Communications Officer,
Recruitment Officer, Retired Members Officer, and others.
A list of current representatives and officers is available here.
Training, mentoring and support is available for anyone interested in becoming more active in the union – please contact the Branch Secretary if you are interested:
Franco Henwood
UNISON Senate House Branch Secretary
UNISON@london.ac.uk
