Branch Life

Every member of UNISON belongs to a local branch which is made up of people working for the same employer or sometimes working for the company which is used by the main employer.

The branch brings you together with other employees who face common issues in the workplace and enable you to get support from the union, work with your colleagues and make your views felt in UNISON.

The Wakefield Met Branch of UNISON is run by a committee which consists of members elected to take on different roles. The branch holds regular meetings, including an annual general meeting.

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.

What does a steward do?

As a steward you can :

• Talk to, recruit and organise members.
• Talk to members about workplace problems
• Represent members in your workplace
• Be involved in hoe your branch and union is run.

Will I have to negotiate with my employer?

It helps if stewards go to meetings with employers but you won’t be forced to do anything you don’t want to do and we will offer you training and backup.

What rights do I get as a steward?

In workplaces where UNISON is recognised by the employer stewards have rights to time off for training and to carry out their work. This includes:

• Meetings with members and management
• Preparation and research
• Keeping members informed

Do I get any training?

All new stewards are encouraged to go on an induction course and on a course for handling grievances and disciplinary matters. You’ll receive regular information on training courses covering a wide range of workplace issues. These are normally run at regional level.

Why are health and safety reps important?

UNISON members believe health and safety is the most important issue at work. It can be a matter of life and death Many of our members know what it is like to experience stress, violence or accidents and injuries at work.

What do health and safety reps do?

Everybody who works has basic rights, which include things like sufficient space to work in, clean and well lit workplaces and safe working practices. Health and safety reps work to make the workplace as safe as possible.

• Make representations to the employer on behalf of members on any health, safety and welfare matter.
• Represent members on consultation with Health and Safety Executive inspectors or other enforcing authorities.
• Inspect designated workplace areas at least every three months.

Like stewards, safety reps are chosen by union members.