Role of the UNISON steward

We’re also always looking for new UNISON stewards, particularly in areas where we currently have no representation.

Key elements of the role are:

• Organising – talking to, recruiting and organising members around workplace issues, publicising campaigns and keeping members informed about and involved in local negotiations.

• Advising – giving advice or acting as a sounding board to members with workplace issues, referring members for assistance where appropriate, or helping them to find out the information they need.

• Representing – after training, accompanying members in meetings and formal processes, or helping them to raise problems with managers before they get out of hand. Ensuring that members’ views are represented to the wider union branch.

Stewards are entitled to facility time and undertake training to

carry out this role. They may also act as local Health and Safety

representatives.

If you’d like to find out more, contact us @ Unison Office, or you could consider becoming a workplace contact. Workplace contacts have a more informal role and can act as part of a network supporting elected stewards.

Training and time off for stewards.

Either locally or through our regional offices we provide excellent training for our stewards.

Paid time off can usually be obtained so you can attend. Courses are paid for by UNISON so neither you personally or your employer will be liable for course fees.

This time off is called facility time, and is provided for under employment law to enable trade union reps to be able to operate effectively. It covers training, and what we call other union ‘duties’ and ‘activities’. If you become a rep for the branch we will explain to you your rights to facility time, and notify your employer of your election to the role.

Becoming a UNISON rep can help you with your career development goals, as you will get access to a range of training and study opportunities you are unlikely to get access to in your main job.

Take a look at the UNISON 2018 Training Programme for ideas of courses you can take part in.

If you think you have the qualities to be a Unison Representative, then why not get in touch with us today?

Training is FREE! Full Support EVERY STEP of the WAY! Why not take a look at the Stewards Handbook while you think about it? :- Branch Library