Education Programme 2013

Transcription

1 Cymru Wales UNISON cymru/wales Education Programme 2013

2 Cymru Wales UNISON cymru/wales Education Programme 2013 Welcome to our 2013 programme of courses Cymru Wales UNISON is facing many challenges and the way we deliver education has to change and become more flexible and responsive to meet legislative requirements and the demands of members in the face of those challenges. Education remains at the heart of UNISON Cymru/Wales work. It helps members to realise their potential and provides opportunities to become more involved in UNISON generally. It can help to build self-confidence and develop practical skills to use in the Union and everyday life. We offer a variety of courses, from lifelong learning opportunities to trade union education. This includes training and development for union reps as well as personal and career development courses ranging from Skills for Life through to professional qualifications. We aim to develop a union whose activists reflect and promote our ethos of equality and diversity, and whose members are empowered to take control, and make decisions for themselves in their working lives. Courses are held in a variety of locations across Wales but we always aim to use venues that are safe and accessible by all members and close to public transport routes. I hope that you will find the courses very informative and enjoyable and that you will meet and get to know other UNISON activists and members, where you can learn and support each other. Gareth John Regional Organiser (Education) Cymru Wales Region Martin Horton Secretary to Education & Training Committee Cymru Wales Region using this programme U-Train offers a map of UNISON learning routes for both representatives and members. The key to the map shows core courses, TUC courses and optional courses. Arrows indicate how you can move between roles and develop your skills and training further. If you need help to plan your route, contact your branch or a member of the regional Education Team who will be pleased to help you. 2

3 Lay Tutors Equality Awareness for Lay Tutors Lay Tutor Stage 1 Law courses Introduction to Employment Law Disability Discrimination Law introductory course Disability Discrimination Law advanced course Race and Sex Discrimination introductory course Race and Sex Discrimination advanced course Introduction to Contracts of Employment Contracts, Redundancy & TUPE advanced course Unfair Dismissals introductory course Unfair Dismissals and Employment Tribunals advanced course Work/Life Balance introductory course Maternity & Parental Rights advanced course New Conference Delegates Briefing Strategic Campaigning Organising with RMS Anti Discrimination Rights on Sexual Orientation Approaches to Tackling Racism & Discrimination Learning in the NHS Skills for Life in the Workplace Information Advice & Guidance in the Workplace Dyslexia in the Workplace Learning in the Branch (blended) Organising and Negotiating Around Learning Union Learning Reps Introductory TUC ULR T Centre spread learning routes map Lifelong Learning in Local Government Union Learning Representatives TUC Health & Safety Reps Stage 1 Health & Safety Representatives TUC Next Steps Stage 2 OU Openings Organising Atypical Workers Bullying at Work Sickness Absence Policies Tackling Stress at Work Violence at Work Branch Development Toolkit U-Train UNISON routes to learning for representatives and members a desire to contribute to the development of new UNISON representatives. Membership Development To find out more about how to apply for these courses contact your branch or region. HIV in the Workplace Women & Health & Safety Work Equipment Personal Protective Equipment Manual Handling Display Screen Equipment T English for You (ESoL) Risk Assessment Adult Numeracy (National Test) T Adult Literacy (National Test) Health & Safety Representatives Women s Lives An Introduction to the Public Sector Equality Duties Basic Pension Enquiries Duty of Care TUC Stepping Up Stage 2 Return to Learn Organising in the Voluntary Sector Equality Reps Negotiating Skills for Local Bargaining Handling Grievances and Disciplinaries Introduction to Equal Pay Women into UNISON: getting involved TUC Union Reps Stage 1 T Women in UNISON: getting started Recruitment Skills Organising Steward T Pathways into UNISON Dealing with Reorganisation Workplace Representatives Negotiating Skills for Local Bargaining Recruitment Skills Challenging Racism Introduction to Equal Pay Equality Officer Labour Link Officer Lifelong Learning Co-ordinator Education Co-ordinator Membership Officer + RMS full access Young Members Officer Communications Officer Health and Safety Officer Chairperson chairing skills & meeting skills Welfare Officer International Relations Officer Branch Secretary s Development Programme & RMS full access Branch Treasurers Branch Officers Core is role specific Each representative route contains foundation courses shown as core which are a recommended starting point when you are first appointed. After that, you can choose from the optional courses in your own route or from another one, depending on your needs. Another option after your initial Core course the names of the courses may differ from region to region they will all give you the skills you need to carry out your role as a UNISON rep. Check your regional education service for more details. All representatives courses are free to the UNISON member although there may be a charge to your branch. This map has been designed to guide you as a UNISON member or rep through a range of development opportunities available to you. Help in planning your development is available from your branch or union learning representative. If you do not have details of your branch contact UNISON on for help. Key Core course in bold TUC courses Optional courses T would be to follow the TUC pathway T. Branch officer courses are available for whichever role you carry out. You might also find it useful to complete courses from another option area. As a member or representative there are training courses available to help you learn new skills for your work and personal life and to give you the confidence to have more influence in the union and take on an active role. Some of these courses are free; others are offered at a discount for you as a UNISON member. The map sets out the full range of courses available through UNISON. UNISON recognises that our reps need certain skills and knowledge to do their job. U-Train shows you the training routes available to you to develop those skills and knowledge. Core courses, and more besides, are provided by every region. Although Arrows indicate the possibilities of moving between roles. If you are interested in taking up any of the positions in UNISON you can easily move from one to another To take up the lay tutor route you would usually have experience of activism within your branch and 1

4 contents contents Why Education? 3 General Information 4 Further information 6 Core Courses 7 Branch based Workshops 10 Union Learning 11 Calendar 16 Union Learning continued 18 Leadership Programme 19 Branch Development 20 Membership Development 23 Equality in the workplace 25 Other courses 26 National Employment Courses 28 Course Application Form 30 Trained and Active 33 Enquiries? Concerns? Get in touch with the Education & Training Team Tel: Fax:

5 why education welcome Welcome to our 2013 programme of courses We are facing massive challenges in the face of austerity with threats to facilities, time off, funding for trade union education and an increasingly fragmented work force. Our strategy is to continue to provide opportunities and extend capacity that enable greater membership participation and engagement. We will do this by improving accessibility and promotion of training, lifelong learning, skills pathways and continual personal development. The way we deliver education has to change and become more flexible and responsive to meet legislative requirements and the demands of members in the face of those challenges. Education remains the heart of all UNISON Cymru/Wales work and whilst we will continue to offer our core activist training, equality, membership development, branch development and lifelong learning courses; these will be supplemented by a range of short focussed workshops that can be run in branches. I hope that you will find in this programme the training that you need to help you to deal with all aspects of your union work. Everything from the basic courses that all stewards need to more specialised courses are included and if you find that your branch has a specific need that is not covered please do not hesitate to contact me to discuss how we can help. Gareth John (Regional Organiser Education) Aims and objectives UNISON has agreed a set of aims to build and strengthen our union. These are: Enhance our capability to meet the recruiting, organisational and representational challenges posed by austerity measures including cuts, workforce reductions, reorganisations, attacks on facility time and privatisation - for all members who provide public services. Protect and secure decent employment and pensions for UNISON members, promoting equality and challenging discrimination. Develop our public service campaigns in support of quality public services, in defence of the NHS and all public services, building our political influence, forging alliances with unions and community groups to challenge the austerity programme, including challenging the attacks on the welfare state. Ensure that the union s essential ICT infrastructure and internal management systems are efficient and effective to meet the changing needs of our branches and membership. Take control! UNISON Cymru/Wales Education and Training programme has a key role to play in helping to achieve our objectives. Our courses aim to develop a union whose activists reflect and promote our ethos of equality and diversity, and whose members are empowered to take control, and make decisions for themselves in their working lives. Learning opportunities This guide is designed to help you get the skills and learning opportunities you need and want - as a valued member and/ or activist in UNISON. UNISON education and training will help you: apply the skills you have to your trade union role, and develop new skills where you want to develop your understanding of workplace issues for sharing with your members explore what it means to be an activist in an organising union one of the largest unions in Wales and the UK get the support you need through quality training Whether you are just starting out, or have been around longer in UNISON, we hope you will find something relevant to you. 3

6 general information What are the courses like? Friendly UNISON courses are run in a friendly and supportive atmosphere. Everybody s views and experiences are valued and listened to. Most of the time you will be working with other people in small groups. You will not be lectured at or put on the spot. Comfortable Our residential courses are run in comfortable hotels. All meals are provided and special diets are catered for if you let us know in advance. Accommodation is usually in single rooms. Some of our venues have swimming pools and leisure facilities. We will endeavour to let you know what facilities are provided. Informal Our courses are relaxed and informal, so you are invited at all times to dress for comfort. Accessible We seek to ensure that the venues we use have adequate facilities for disabled members. Because of the wide varieties of facilitation required it is important that members let us know as soon as possible what they want and that they are specific about requirements. Time off to attend Stewards, Health and Safety representatives and Union Learning Representatives have a legal right to paid time off to attend relevant training. If this applies it is YOU or YOUR branch s responsibility to arrange time-off to attend the course. If you have any problems then speak to your Branch Education Co-ordinator, Union Learning Representative or Branch Secretary. Course application procedure Once you have selected a course, or courses, which you wish to attend you will need to fill out an application form. One has been enclosed with this programme which can be photocopied or contact the Education & Training Team at the Cardiff office for further copies. Most of the courses offered within this programme are free to members but you will need to have the approval of your Branch. Applications forms must be given to the Branch Education Co-ordinator or Branch Secretary to sign. We will acknowledge receipt of your application although this is not a guarantee of a place on the course. Responsibilities at home If you have incurred an additional cost UNISON can provide a care allowance for children and dependants, if they need to be looked after whilst you are attending courses. The scale of the allowance changes from time to time and current rates can be obtained from the Education & Training Team, Cardiff. You are obliged to provide a receipt. On residential courses UNISON will endeavour to provide childcare facilities for children up to the age of 16 plus accommodation suitable for children. Qualified childcare workers are employed to provide this care. Nursery nurses will care for children up to the age of 7 years and youth workers will look those aged 8 16 years after. These carers will often be responsible for children during course times and until 11pm in the evening. We must conform to the Children s Act so you must let us know when you apply for a course if you need to bring your child/children. Otherwise, we may be unable to provide appropriate supervision. 4

7 general information Confirmation of your place on a course Each course in this programme has a closing date of four weeks prior to the start for applications. You will be contacted after the closing date and advised whether or not you have a place. We will also tell you about the details of the course e.g. venue, start times and any other relevant information. Early application is advisable when you require childcare or other facilities. Late applications may be considered depending on numbers applying. Course times Non residential courses usually start at 9.30 am and finish at 4.30 pm. Residential courses usually start at 6.00pm on Friday evening (you should aim to arrive at the venue between 5.00pm and 6.00pm) or at 9.30am on Saturday and finish on Sunday afternoon. You will be given a specific start/finish time when you are offered a place on a course. For the benefit of everyone on the course you should try to attend all course sessions on time. Part time workers If you attend a course for which paid time off is available and the course hours exceed those you normally work, you are entitled to receive pay or time off in lieu for those hours. Please ask your Branch Education Co-ordinator, Union Learning Representative or Branch Secretary for help if you experience problems in exercising these rights. Also do not forget that if you incur additional childcare or dependent care costs UNISON provides an allowance to ensure you are not out of pocket. Expenses Travel and subsistence costs for all courses are the responsibility of your Branch. You should check with your Branch Education Co-ordinator, Union Learning Representative or Branch Secretary to find how to claim these costs. What if my branch refuses to support my application? If your Branch has refused your application to a training course the first thing you need to do is find out the reason it has been refused. If a reason is given you should contact your Branch Secretary, Branch Education Co-ordinator or Union Learning Representative to discuss the refusal. If you are still dissatisfied, you should contact the Membership Development Team to discuss your application. Course materials For some courses you will be asked to bring along materials or resources with you e.g. copies of grievance or disciplinary procedures, the Regional Health and Safety pack etc. You may have to contact your Branch Education Co-ordinator, UNISON Learning Representative or Branch Secretary for assistance with finding the materials, otherwise this may put you at a disadvantage. 5

8 further information Training and accreditation On being elected, every steward needs to ensure that his/her branch notifies UNISON Regional Swansea Office. There is a special purple form (the Notification of Workplace Representatives Form stock order no. 0852) that must be used for this purpose. Without this form being completed and forwarded to the RMS Section, Swansea Regional Office, a workplace representative will not be listed on the RMS and will not be added to the Education & Training Section mailing list. UNISON Region will then issue steward s accreditation, either directly to the steward or via the branch. It is UNISON national policy that new stewards who are involved in representing members should attend the UNISON 5 day the Organising Steward course or the TUC 10 day Union Representatives Stage 1 Course. This is to conform to The Employment Relations Act (1999), known as ERA, which puts an obligation on unions to ensure that union representatives have attended specified training in order to represent members in grievance and disciplinary cases. If you are a new health & safety rep. then you should attend the UNISON 3 day Organising for Health & Safety course. It is the first step for safety reps in becoming conversant with, and more confident about, their rights as a recognised union rep and their responsibility to members, the Branch and UNISON generally. If you want a more detailed introduction to health & safety you may prefer to opt for the more detailed 10-day comprehensive TUC Health & Safety Stage 1 course. It is also UNISON policy that existing Stewards maintain their ERA Certification and that they either undertake refresher/era re-accreditation training at least every 5 years or have evidence of appropriate training and development which is recorded by the Region within the 5 year period. Stewards/Workplace Reps who do not undertake refresher/era re-accreditation training and do not have evidence of appropriate training and development which is recorded by the Region, within the five year period, will no longer be ERA certificated. Branch based courses As well as running a framework of courses at regional level UNISON Cymru/Wales also runs courses and training sessions for individual Branches or groups of Branches, usually with the help of regional Organising staff. If you have enough active members who need particular training we may be able to deliver a low cost course in your Branch. Alternatively you may want to link up with other Branches to organise more locally based training. Ask your Branch Education Co-ordinator, Union Learning Representative or Branch Secretary for more information on education and training provision in your Branch. If you are a Branch Secretary or Branch Education Co-ordinator or UNISON Learning Representative and you would like to explore the possibility of Branch based training then contact one of your regional Organising staff for more information. Course fees payable by branches A number of courses within the programme are free to Branches as well as members and these have been highlighted within the brochure. Unless otherwise stated, the current cost to the Branch for a member attending a regional day course is per day and for a weekend course. Failure to notify us of non-attendance may result in financial charges to your branch. 6

9 core courses STEWARDS INTRODUCTION: ORGANISING STEWARD This is UNISON s foundation course for workplace reps and attendance is essential for all new Stewards. The training is aimed at developing your skills, knowledge and confidence to enable you to carry out the role of a Steward in UNISON. It is a 5 day course split into two modules and completion of both is required for a steward to be certified as accreditation to represent members in the workplace. The course covers: Understanding the role of an organising union in public services Recognised the importance of equalities in UNISON Working with members to tackle issues in the workplace Working with members in resolving cases Knowing where and when to seek advice and guidance Understanding how procedures work in practice NEGOTIATING AND REPRESENTATION SKILLS This is a two day course and is for workplace reps who will represent members and who are involved in negotiations, or who are likely to become involved in negotiations, with management on pay and conditions. It is ideal for all workplace reps. It is organised in an active way that gives us all an opportunity to have a say as well as listen to other A large part of the course is based on practice negotiating sessions giving you practical experience of negotiating situations. The scenarios and negotiating situations used in the course are designed to be as close to reality as possible. The course will enable you to: What is Negotiating? Effective Negotiating Teams Reading between the lines Bargaining Information Preparing a Claim Preparing the Negotiating Team Self Assessing the Negotiating Sessions Handling grievance, disciplinary and similar types of cases as the representative of UNISON members within your workplace Being certified as competent to accompany members at disciplinary and grievance hearings in order to comply with the Employment Relations Act 1999 Understanding the broader roles in which UNISON operates, including internationally 7

10 core courses INTRODUCTION TO HEALTH & SAFETY This 3 day course is designed mainly for newly elected and less experienced UNISON health and safety reps organising at local level and potential UNISON Health & Safety Representatives. It is also suitable for stewards who are also Health & Safety Representatives, or who want to find out more about the union role in health & safety. Course content covers: Health & Safety Problems and the Organising Approach Health & Safety Representation and the Law The Health & Safety Reps Role Facilities, Time-off and Training for Health & Safety Reps Workplace inspections and Risk Assessments Dealing with Accidents Safety Committees Safety Policies Guidance on Grievance and Disputes procedures Dealing with Health & Safety problems ERA REACCREDITATION (Stewards Refresher) This is a two day course which is aimed at UNISON workplace representatives who have completed a first stage course, either the UNISON Organising Stewards or the TUC 10 day course. It is relevant to reps who have previously attended UNISON s One Step Ahead training, and also to branch officers and is designed to meet the requirements of the Employment Relations Act (ERA) reaccreditation. The purpose of the course is to update reps on new developments both in UNISON and in the law. In some cases participants will be signposted to further training, for example in the Public Sector Equality Duties or to develop new skills such as in mentoring. The course aims to: Update reps on new legislation which is relevant to their role, particularly the updated Grievance and Disciplinary procedures and the Public Sector Equality Duties Introduce new developments within UNISON, including Meeting the Organising Challenge Develop new skills and ideas including preparing for cases and encouraging and supporting new activists By the end of the course participants: Have reflected on the process of action planning and have recorded SMART actions to follow up on in their branches Have reflected on the role of a rep and on what they have learned in the role so far Be able to explain the differences between the new ACAS Code on Grievances and Disciplinaries Be familiar with UNISON s Representation Handbook Be able to put together a case plan Be able to describe practical ideas about how to engage and involve new members and activists in UNISON Have an understanding of the Public Sector Equality Duties Be able to describe some examples on ongoing inequality in the UK 8

11 core courses INTRODUCTION TO EMPLOYMENT LAW, CONTRACTS AND WORKLIFE BALANCE This is run over 3 days. DAY 1 - INTRO TO EMPLOYMENT LAW Employment law is a huge subject with constant changes and new laws. This section of the course provides a broad overview of the whole system of individual rights, with a closer focus on some of the most important areas. It is designed mainly for less experienced UNISON stewards, anyone who has not attended an employment law course previously and those wishing to refresh their knowledge. (More advanced courses are available at national level.) The course covers: Statutory and contractual rights The Employment Tribunal System Notice pay and wrongful dismissal Unfair dismissal Redundancy Discrimination DAY 3 - INTRO TO WORKLIFE BALANCE In recent years, an ever increasing number of laws have been passed to improve work/life balance. There are complex rules in this area and this section of the course can only provide a general overview. It is designed mainly for less experienced UNISON stewards, anyone who has not attended a work/ life balance course previously and those wishing to refresh their knowledge. (More detail is available on the national UNISON Race and Sex Discrimination Law course). The course covers: The various forms of statutory leave available: maternity leave, paternity leave, adoption leave, parental leave and dependant leave Pregnancy discrimination and pregnancy rights Older workers and retirement How to imply contract terms The right of those with care of a child to request flexible working Rights of part timers How the Sex Discrimination Act can help those who cannot work full-time, overtime or rotating shifts due to childcare responsibilities DAY 2 - INTRODUCTION TO CONTRACTS Contracts of employment are at the heart of individual employment law. Contract law is very difficult and there are no simple answers. This section of the course aims to simply explain the issues and dilemmas. It is designed mainly for less experienced UNISON stewards, anyone who has not attended a contracts law course previously and those wishing to refresh their knowledge. (A more advanced course covering Contracts, Redundancy and TUPE is available at national level.) The course covers: Different types of contract How to imply contract terms Incorporation of collective agreements Overview of when an employer breaks or tries to change the contract How to find and interpret contract terms Terms introduced by Parliament 9

12 branch based workshops Branch based Workshops UNISON has developed a range of short workshop style activities that can be run with branches and members. These are an additional resource and not a replacement for core activist training for reps and branch officers. The workshops run for anything from 2-3 to three hours to a whole day and they include: POLITICAL EDUCATION: CAMPAIGNING: The Welfare State: Worth Defending Understanding the threat to the welfare state The economic crisis causes and responses Getting active and making a difference Defending public services ice breaker Effective lobbying Campaigning Preparing for street campaigning ORGANISING: BARGAINING: Memory wall ice-breaker and make a difference today activity Team working Mobilising around the cuts: the importance of One to One conversations Writing Successful funding bids Facilities time Privatisation and Procurement Defending Agenda for Change Preparing for Industrial Action Increasing our influence successful motions TUPE Further workshops are in development and the number available continues to grow. If you would like a workshop run in your branch please contact one of your regional organising staff or the education and training team. 10

13 union learning UNISON CYMRU/WALES AND LIFE LONG LEARNING We are committed to developing the workplace as a learning community. In the public and essential services we work in partnership with employers building active learning cultures that contribute to improving the service for the user and enhances the prospects and quality of life of the employee. We know that our members are often held back at work and in society, by a lack of skills, training and confidence. We also know that women, part-time workers and those in low paid manual jobs are less likely to be involved in any learning programmes that are on offer by employers. As one of the largest trade unions in Wales we recognise the importance of offering learning opportunities to our members so that they can take their proper place at work, in their communities and within the union. The unique UNISON approach is to ensure that as many of our members as possible have opportunities for learning to provide them with the skills and the confidence to progress and participate fully in all spheres of their lives. We do this through our network of UNISON Learning Representatives, Branch Education Co-ordinators and Branch Life Long Learning Officers working alongside members building confidence, identifying opportunities and providing access to education and training. For more information, or if you would like to find out more about our learning programmes or become a UNISON Learning Representative, please contact the Education & Training Team on , or us at cymruwales@unison.co.uk or visit us at our web-site: org.uk. Wales/Cymru TUC Learning Services UNISON fully supports the TUC Regional Learning Services programme of courses provided through a number of colleges and the WEA throughout Wales. The TUC programme is sent directly to branch secretaries and branch education co-ordinators. In addition many courses in this programme are delivered using tutors from colleges and the WEA that are part of the TUC network. For further information contact: Wales TUC Learning Services, Transport House, 1 Cathedral Road, Cardiff, CF11 9SD Tel: Fax: mburke@tuc.org.uk or web: 11

14 union learning ARE YOU INTERESTED IN LEARNING? Have you thought about becoming a UNISON Learning Representative? What is a UNISON Learning Rep? UNISON Learning Reps are trade union reps who are willing to provide encouragement and support around learning for members or potential members in the workplace. They have the same statutory rights as other UNISON reps and are entitled to have reasonable time off with pay to attend training and to carry out their role. Any UNISON member can train to become a Learning Rep. The best people for the role are those who are enthusiastic about learning and want to support other people to learn new things and develop their skills and confidence. They need to be able to chat with other members about their learning needs and provide information about training courses or learning opportunities that may be useful. To be a UNISON Learning Rep you: Do not have to be currently active in the union Do not need an understanding of UNISON and its structures Do not need any experience of being a steward or union activist You do need to be enthusiastic about learning You do need to know and understand the benefits of participating in lifelong learning You do need to want to motivate others to get involved in lifelong learning What do UNISON Learning Reps do? The role is very diverse and can include some or all of the activities below: Carrying out a learning needs analysis within the workplace to find out more about learning needs Raising awareness of basic skills needs and working with the employer to develop and implement an Employer Pledge action plan Organising and running open days and events in the workplace to promote workplace and lifelong learning and provide more information on learning opportunities available Supporting members who are on a learning programme and providing information, advice and guidance on learning progression routes Represent and negotiate on behalf of members on issues around learning (for example, around time off to attend courses) What training is available and what is covered? There is a 5 day training course available for all new Learning Reps to help you feel confident to carry out the ULR role and you have the same legal rights to time off with pay to attend training as other union representatives such as stewards and health and safety reps. The course includes: Promoting and researching life long learning Offering support to other learners and overcoming barriers to learning Developing communication, listening and interviewing skills Working with your employer and your UNISON branch to promote life long learning in the workplace Understanding effective ways of assessing learning needs Planning & negotiating for learning activity in the workplace Learning agreements More info... For an informal discussion about the role of UNISON Learning Representative or to book your place on the next course, please contact:- Helen Huelin (Regional Learning & Development Organiser) on or or h.huelin@unison.co.uk 12

15 union learning OPEN UNIVERSITY (WALES) As a distance learning university the Open University (Wales) was founded to bring higher education to people who are unable to study at a conventional university and who want to choose when and where they want to study. A national agreement exists between UNISON and the Open University and we have worked together for many years to bring learning to the workplace. Jointly we have developed innovative approaches with employers seeking help with planning workplace learning opportunities for their staff. These include bringing together groups of learners, running a pre-course workshop and delivering courses in partnership. As part of this scheme UNISON Cymru/Wales has supported hundreds of learners through K101 Understanding Health and Social Care. The OU s Openings programme of introductory courses is aimed at people who have not studied for some time and can t afford to take time out from work to learn. They are useful in themselves as subject specific courses but also offer immediate benefits in the workplace and are ideal preparation for further study. All Openings courses have been developed for new learners or those who have not done any learning for a few years. There are no entry requirements and they assume no special knowledge and no experience of studying. You will receive course materials and support by telephone and/or whenever you need it from your personal Open University tutor. You will need to study for a few hours each week over 20 weeks. In 2013 there are 5 topics to choose from. Understanding Children & Young people Understanding Management Starting with Psychology Starting with Maths Making Sense of the Arts All courses also incorporate a short IT module at the end. If you would like more information or you wish to register your interest for one of the courses then please contact: Helen Huelin Regional Development and Learning Organiser on or h.huelin@unison.co.uk FLEXILEARN Flexilearn is a an innovative new learning system for UNISON members being developed in partnership with the open university. It offers vocationally relevant Continuing personal Development (CPD) opportunities in the form of short workshops, bite sized taster sessions and podcasts suitable for workers across the public sector. Find out more on our website: 13

16 union learning: non-era courses The following courses will be run throughout the year to coincide with the appropriate elections, conferences and events and will be advertised to branches as they become available: Branch Development Leadership Programme Chairing & Meeting Skills Br Education Co-ordinator Br Health & Safety Officer Speaking with Confidence Advanced Representation Skills Recruitment Skills Mentoring in the Branch Discussion Leader / Lay Tutor training RMS Coping with Change Risk Assessments Health & Safety Refresher Membership Development Self Organised Groups Equality Reps Equality Impact Assessments Public Sector Equality Duties Discrimination Equality for ULRs Mental Health First Aid training Mental Health Awareness for TU reps Other Environmental Reps Training Thompsons Solicitors employment law updates and briefings Conference procedures and taking part Leadership training for Regional Committees Branch Based Workshops Political Education - Defending the Welfare State - The threats to the Welfare State - The Economic Crisis - Getting Active Campaigning - Defending Public Services - Effective lobbying - Strategic Campaigning - Street Campaigning Organising - Memory Wall - Team Working - Mobilising around the cuts - Successful funding bid writing Bargaining - Facilities time - TUPE - Privatisation & Procurement - Preparing for industrial action - Successful motion writing Lifelong & Workplace Learning Union Learning Representatives (ULRs) Return to Learn Women s Lives Information Advice & Guidance Dyslexia in the workplace Skills for life Learning in the NHS and the Knowledge and Skills Framework (KSF) Branch Welfare Officers (BWOs) The Branch Welfare Officers training will take place in Bristol on the weekend of 6th and 7th July It is compulsory as part of the new training for BWOs to complete a short e-note online module before attending the face-to-face course. Details of how BWOs will access the e-note will be advertised. For further information please contact the Education and Training team. 14

17 union learning SKILLS FOR LIFE This course is a follow on from the UNISON Lifelong Learning Advisers and Union Learning Representatives courses. It is for those representatives and learning advisers that want to improve their understanding and skills in promoting Skills for Life (language, literacy & numeracy) in the workplace and helping members access opportunities to improve these skills. The course runs for 12 hours, over two days. The course involves group work and discussion as well as finding out information from your employer and UNISON. It is accredited through the Open College Network and you can achieve one credit at levels 1, 2 or 3. LEARNING IN THE NHS (KSF) This course is aimed at Union Learning Representatives and Lifelong Learning Advisers who have already participated in the first stage Learning rep or adviser training. The course complements the other activist training courses on the Knowledge and Skills Framework which aim to enable branches to plan their response to the KSF and to enable stewards and members to participate effectively in the development of KSF post outlines. This training focuses on the wider learning agenda within the NHS as well as the specific role of the Learning Rep in supporting members through the development review process. Additional second stage training for Learning Reps on Skills for Life, Information Advice and Guidance and Dyslexia is also available from UNISON. union learning continued on page 18 15

18 calendar of courses - sw & nw wales Core Courses Courses being held in South West Wales and in North Wales JANUARY 22 nd & 29 th Jan & 5 th, 12 th & 19 th Feb (5 days) Organising Stewards FEBRUARY 14 th & 15 th Feb (2 days) ERA Refresher MARCH 7 th & 8 th Mar (2 days) Negotiating Skills 18 th & 19 th Mar, 17 th, 18 th & 19 th Apr (5 days) Organising Stewards APRIL 3rd, 4 th & 5 th Apr (3 days) MAY Intro to Health & Safety 8 th, 9 th & 10 th May (3 days) Intro to Emp Law, Contracts & Work Life Bal 13 th & 14 th May (2 days) Negotiating Skills JUNE 6 th, 13 th, 20 th, 27 th Jun & 4 th Jul (5 days) Organising Stewards 17 th, 18 th & 19 th Jun (3 days) Intro to Health & Safety JULY 8th, 9 th & 10 th Jul (3 days) Intro to Emp Law, Contracts & Work Life Balance 18 th & 19 th Jul (2 days) ERA Refresher AUGUST 1 st & 2 nd Aug (2 days) Negotiating Skills 13 th & 14 th Aug, 10 th, 11 th & 12 th Sep (5 days) Organising Steward 28 th, 29 th & 30 th Aug (3 days) Intro to Health & Safety SEPTEMBER 30 th Sep, 1 st and 2 nd Oct (3 days) Intro to Emp Law, Contracts & Work Life Balance OCTOBER 10 th & 11 th Oct (2 days) Negotiating Skills 14 th & 15 th Oct (2 days) ERA Refresher 30 th & 31 st Oct, 1st Nov (3 days) Intro to Health & Safety NOVEMBER 14 th, 21 st, 28 th Nov & 5 th, 12 th Dec (5 days) Organising Steward DECEMBER 9 th, 10 th & 11 th Dec (3 days) Intro to Emp Law, Contracts & Work Life Balance 16

19 se & mid wales - calendar of courses Core Courses Courses being held in South East Wales and in Mid Wales JANUARY 24 th & 31 st Jan & 7 th, 14 th & 21 st Feb (5 days) Organising Stewards FEBRUARY 18 th & 19 th Feb (2 days) ERA Refresher MARCH 20 th & 21 st Mar (2 days) Negotiating Skills 13 th & 14 th Mar, 9 th, 10 th & 11 th Apr (5 days) Organising Stewards APRIL 17 th, 18 th & 19 th Apr (3 days) Intro to Health & Safety MAY 1 st & 2 nd May (2 days) Negotiating Skills 14 th, 15 th & 16 th May (3 days) Intro to Emp Law, Contracts & Work Life Balance 21 st, 22 nd & 23 rd May (3 days) Intro to Health & Safety 29 th May, 5 th, 12 th, 19 th 26 th June (5 days) Organising Stewards JUNE 19 th, 20 th and 21 st Jun (3 days) Intro to Emp Law, Contracts & Work Life Balance JULY 11 th & 12 th Jul (2 days) ERA Refresher 31 st Jul & 1 st Aug (2 days) Negotiating Skills AUGUST 20 th, 21 st & 22 nd Aug (3 days) Intro to Health & Safety 28 th & 29 th Aug, 24 th, 25 th & 26 th Sep (5 days) Organising Steward SEPTEMBER 17 th, 18 th & 19 th Sep (3 days) Intro to Emp Law, Contracts & Work Life Balance OCTOBER 9 th & 10 th Oct (2 days) ERA Refresher 23 rd & 24 th Oct (2 days) Negotiating Skills NOVEMBER 5 th, 12 th, 19 th, 26 th Nov & 3rd Dec (5 days) Organising Steward 13 th, 14 th & 15 th Nov (3 days) Intro to Health & Safety DECEMBER 10 th, 11 th & 12 th Dec (3 days) Intro to Emp Law, Contracts & Work Life Balance 17

20 union learning DYSLEXIA IN THE WORKPLACE This course is a follow on from the UNISON Learning Representatives introductory courses. It is for those who want to improve their understanding of dyslexia and how it affects people in the workplace. The course is two days and involves individual activities, group work and discussion as well as finding out information from your employer and outside sources. It is NOT designed to make you into a dyslexia expert but to introduce you to some of the key issues facing individuals, the trade union and the employing organisation. In particular, the course aims to help you to: understand the most common traits and behaviour associated with dyslexia understand the barriers to learning at work faced by people with dyslexia consider how you might support colleagues in the workplace who are experiencing difficulties associated with dyslexia The course is accredited through the Open College Network (OCN) and you can achieve one credit at levels 1, 2 or 3 INFORMATION, ADVICE AND GUIDANCE This 2 day course is a follow on from the UNISON Learning Representatives introductory course or the TUC equivalent. It is aimed at ULRs who want to improve their understanding and skills in giving information and advice in the workplace, how to keep up to date contacts and to take enquiries further. The course covers: Understanding IAG in a trade union context Developing the skills needed to work with learners Identifying ways of working with external organisations Awareness of the matrix quality standard and IAG good practice The course is accredited through the Open College Network and you can achieve one credit at levels 1, 2 or 3. To achieve level 1 you need only to complete the evidence sheets in the course book and to collect some information. To achieve levels 2 or 3, you will have to interview someone at work and write up your notes. 18

21 leadership programme Overview of UNISON Branch Leadership Programme. The programme will run for a total of eleven days training over eighteen months. The UNISON Branch Secretary Introduction (2 days) This is the current core module for branch secretaries and include the branch secretary job description, branch organisation, priorities and managing the branch. Managing the branch (2 days) This includes the code of good branch practice, looking at stakeholders, enemies and allies. The branch image. Branch resources including activists, members, branch employed staff, money. Support for stewards and building a team. Branch assessments and leadership versus management. Organising Representation and Bargaining (2 days) This module includes local agreements, research, collectivising cases, bargaining priorities, negotiating teams and difficult situations, persuading and influencing. Developing your Activists and Mentoring (2 days) Different methods of developing new activists, giving small organising tasks etc. Setting up systems of support, including buddying and what it means in a branch context. What is a mentor, agreeing a contract, listening and questioning, the stewards journey and planning your activists development. Strategic Campaign Planning (1 day) Effective campaigns, what makes a good campaign issue, developing your message, targets and allies, devising your organising strategy and actions. Leadership (2 days) This includes what does it mean to be a leader in a branch or at regional level, why understanding the culture is important. Leadership characteristics, identify areas of influence, developing leadership skills and succession planning in the branch. 19

22 branch development CHAIRING AND MEETING SKILLS This course is designed for anyone who wants to improve the knowledge and skills associated with chairing and otherwise participating in meetings. The emphasis is on a balance between formal and informal meetings. It provides basic and refresher meeting skills for any activists who attends or will attend meetings in the future. SPEAKING WITH CONFIDENCE This course is designed for anyone who is looking to gain more confidence at speaking in public. It will also explain how to be more effective and be heard in meetings and includes practice sessions and tips on how to prepare and deliver. It covers: It covers: The roles and skills of Chairing Preparing Agendas Facilitating Meetings Meetings Procedures Practise at Chairing a Meeting Understanding Motions and Amendments Chairing Dilemmas What would you do? Meeting the Organising Aims of UNISON Looking at what you want to achieve Preparing to speak Using factual arguments Dealing with nervousness Planning your speech Knowing your subject Structuring your speech Delivering your speech Responding in debate DEALING WITH THE PRESS AND MEDIA This weekend residential course is for activists and it looks at effective ways of presenting trade union issues to the media. It is designed to build confidence for when you are being interviewed and deals with how to write press releases and how you plan to use the media. It covers: Identifying the opportunities for using the media Assessing what factors can make an issue newsworthy Writing a press release Using skills appropriate to different media interviews e.g. language, technique, formality, including TV interviews etc. Preparing to handle different media Drawing up lists of media contacts indicating their usefulness for specific trade union issues Preparing a plan for presenting trade union issues to the media COPING WITH CHANGE This new two day course has been developed by UNISON Cymru/Wales and the South Wales WEA (Workers Educational Association) If you are facing the possibility of facing changes and upheaval at work or are worried about becoming redundant then this will be of particular interest to you. It will also be of interested to you if you are facing the possibility of retiring from work. By the end of the course you will: Have an understanding of change and how it affects you Be able to look positively and proactively at change Have developed and practised some skills for coping with change Be able to make a positive contribution to change at work Have set your own personal action plan for change Some of the topics include: CV writing and interview skills Planning ahead Learning Opportunities Health and Wellbeing Where to go for advice on budgeting, pensions and investments 20

23 branch development RISK ASSESSMENTS Risk Assessment is a crucial part of health and safety in the work place. This 2 day course has been designed to enable UNISON health and safety representatives to learn about risks and risk assessment legislation which will help them to organise more effectively for a safer working environment. The course will help participants to: show an awareness of the range of risks in the workplace understand the key legal requirements concerning risk assessments, and the criteria used be familiar with the UNISON approach to risk assessment and understand how risk assessment can be used as part of a workplace strategy for improving the health, safety and welfare of their members develop a risk assessment resource pack for use in their workplace and union HEALTH & SAFETY REFRESHER This one day course is designed for existing UNISON health & safety reps organising at local level who wish to update and refresh their knowledge. It is also suitable for stewards who are also health & safety representatives, or who want to find out more about the union role in health & safety. MENTORING IN YOUR BRANCH This branch course recognises that mentoring will be effective as a means of supporting new stewards where all branch officers are supportive and aware of the role that mentors play. The aims of the course are to: gain an understanding of what mentoring means understand the context of a branch strategy on mentoring develop key mentoring skills including listening and questioning develop awareness of the process of developing stewards agree the scope and boundaries of the role of mentors within the branch RECRUITMENT SKILLS This course is for all stewards and branch officers and is a practical way of looking at the skills necessary for the ongoing process of recruiting members. The course covers: Awareness of UNISON s publicity materials, especially targeted material Understanding work place mapping Preparing presentations Persuading reluctant members to join The benefits of being a trade union member How to increase UNISON s density 21

24 branch development ADVANCED REPRESENTATION SKILLS This 2 day course is based on an entire disciplinary hearing from start to finish. Participants follow the case on DVD/video and it is designed to give new stewards an insight into how the procedures work as well as develop the skills of more experienced representatives. The course expects that participants will have received at least a basic grounding through their introductory stewards course and if you are representing members and want to improve your skills then this course will help build your confidence enhance your existing tools. RMS The six-day course enables branches to take full responsibility for the membership system (RMS). The course is aimed at branch-employed staff or activists who currently have, or are able to take, responsibility for maintaining branch membership records. The course covers: Entering new members details Lapsing members Producing reports Using the RMS as an organising tool to aid recruitment and retention This course will help you to: Prepare a case, including interviewing members Analyse a case and identify its strengths and weaknesses Prepare for cross examination of management witnesses Develop your confidence to represent a member at a disciplinary hearing Give you an opportunity to practice your skills The two-day course is designed for those branches who wish to view details held about their members on the RMS but who will not be updating the system. The one-day course is an overview of the operation systems and processes and how the RMS can aid branch recruitment and organisation. 22

25 membership development WOMEN S DEVELOPMENT This 3 day course for women which is intended to be informative and is designed to help those women who take part to support the work of their branch and act as workplace representatives. It will enable participants to develop new skills and knowledge and work with other women around Wales. BLACK MEMBERS DEVELOPMENT This course is aimed at black members active in, or interested in becoming involved, in their branches or in black members groups at a branch or regional level. DISABLED MEMBERS A 3 day course for Disabled Members to help those who take part to support members in the workplace. It will enable participants to develop action plans, new skills and experiences and particularly to develop their campaigning skills and to work with new friends and colleagues. LESBIAN, GAY, BI-SEXUAL AND TRANSGENDER MEMBERS DEVELOPMENT A 3 day course for LGBT members to support other LGBT members in the workplace. It will enable participants to develop new knowledge and skills in a supportive environment working with new friends and colleagues from across the Region. EQUALITIES FOR ULR S This course has been specifically designed for UNISON ULRs. The purpose of the course is to help ULRs: Build confidence Deal with equality issues Develop their understanding of equality issues Understand the link between equality issues and learning and organising Understanding the deep rooted nature of prejudice and discrimination will help ULRs carry out their role confidently and effectively. 23

26 membership development WOMEN S LIVES Course aims The course will help women participants to: get back into education build confidence help to develop study skills Who is it for? If you are someone who wants to get back into education, but have been put off in the past because it seemed too difficult then Women s Lives is ideal. It is particularly suitable for women who have been out of education for a long time and have had few educational opportunities in the past. How the course will work including duration Participants will join a regular study group which will meet every two weeks or so for four months. This group will be organised and run by a tutor. The other members of the group will be women who want to get back into education. The groups are very informal with opportunities to swap ideas and experiences and to help prepare for working on your own. It is expected that everyone will need to spend about another two hours per week studying at home. There are no tests or exams. As well as the study group, there is a residential weekend. The emphasis is on co-operation and mutual support. How and where to enrol RETURN 2 LEARN Course aims The course will help participants to: build self confidence improve educational skills in key areas provide information and guidance to help move on to further learning opportunities widen horizons and meet new friends Who is it for? UNISON members who: are considering going back into education want to brush up their skills have few, if any, educational qualifications are looking for a change of direction How the course will work including duration The course will involve you working with the tutor and other learners in regular local study groups. These usually take place one evening every fortnight for about two and a half hours over a period of six to eight months. There will also be a residential weekend. The course, including the residential weekend, is free to UNISON members. How and where to enrol Contact Helen Huelin (Regional Learning & Development Organiser): h.huelin@unison.co.uk Contact Helen Huelin (Regional Learning & Development Organiser): h.huelin@unison.co.uk The course brought together different perspectives on how bullying and harassment is dealt with in branches and by employers. Cheryl Forrest It increased my confidence, I made new friends, it challenged my mind and inspired me to learn more. I left school with no qualifications at 15 and I never thought I could achieve such a high standard of education in my more mature years. Janice Marshall 24

27 equality in the workplace courses EQUALITY REPS The course will help participants to: promote equality in their branch promote equality in the workplace The course is for existing and newly elected Branch Equality Officers and those interested in becoming a Branch Equality Officer. It is also useful for as a course for Branches wishing to engage on the issues of equality for any Branch Officers and Activists. This course will help you: Understand the role of the equality rep Find out more about discrimination legislation Improve equality policies and agreements Find out about good practice and share success stories Promote equality in the workplace and the union Develop tools and techniques for raising equality issues Keep updated with current legislation Understand sector specific equality duties PUBLIC SECTOR EQUALITY DUTIES Existing anti-discrimination legislation covers six main equality strands gender, disability, race, sexual orientation, age and religion and belief. Although this has started to tackle discrimination, progress has been slow and has often led to individual legal remedies that do not tackle underlying problems. During the course you will learn about the general and specific duties of each duty and how they can be practically applied to make a difference to UNISON members lives. They are a key tool for negotiating and bargaining across all aspects of work with employers and this course is not only for equality officers but for key branch negotiators. This course also provides an introduction to Equality Impact Assessment (EIA) EQUALITY ACT & EQUALITY IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA) This course will provide participants with an understanding of the Equality Act 2010, an overview of discrimination law and the new Public Sector Equality Duties. It will also provide an introduction to Equality Impact Assessment. Understanding the EIA process is vital to our effectiveness in working with policy and initiative development. It is one of the most practical tools we can use to evaluate the effect of a proposal, policy or initiative and challenge the effects on our members in the workforce. EIAs can be applied to a range of employers initiatives such as change of terms and conditions, procurement, PFI, TUPE transfers etc and used as a mechanism to identify and challenge discrimination. The course will provide you with the necessary skills to challenge employers using the Equality Act and build confidence around the process and implementation of EIA s. DISABILITY DISCRIMINATION LAW (INTRODUCTORY) This course is for representatives and Branch Officers and will help participants to: Gain an introductory overview of disability discrimination law assist activists in recognising who might be covered and how useful the law can be Outcomes By the end of the course, participants will be able to: have an introductory overview of disability discrimination law, including an initial idea as to: the definition of disability, ie who might be covered by the law the type of reasonable adjustments which an employer is expected to make tribunal time-limits 25

28 other courses THOMPSONS BRIEFINGS Thompsons solicitors can provide one-day briefings for branches, standing committees or Self Organised Groups upon request on issues such: Health & Safety Race & Sex Discrimination Contracts, Redundancy & TUPE Unfair Dismissals & Employment Tribunals Disability Discrimination in Employment Law CONFERENCE PROCEDURES AND TAKING PART Going to Conference this year? Are you feeling anxious about the experience? Would you like to find out more about what to expect? Then this one-day briefing is for you. The briefing is aimed at both new and not-so-new delegates so don t feel shy, come and find out what it is all about. The course covers: How conference operates Key issues you are likely to deal with How to handle the paper work What support you may require when you are there MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS This course will help UNISON reps to: Develop a better understanding of Mental Health in general Develop a better understanding of work related Mental Health issues Develop a better understanding of Disability Discrimination Law and how it applies to people with Mental Health issues Develop through the use of case studies and role play some practical skills for dealing with Mental Health related issues Produce an action plan to work with members and employers to develop a strategy for Mental Health issues MENTAL FIRST AID This 2 day course is supported by the Welsh Government and is aimed at the Welsh public, employers, managers, trade union reps, frontline staff in local authorities and Housing, Further Education staff, NHS staff, Prison and custody staff and Jobcentre Plus staff. Upon successful completion Participants receive a certificate from Mind Cymru and an endorsement from The Welsh Government. In summary the course: Is based on what to do as a first responder much like physical first aid Seeks to improve mental health literacy and help people to recognise the signs and symptoms of someone with mental health problems Helps participants to respond to various mental health crises, engage with, support and signpost people to appropriate professional help. UNDERSTANDING ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES IN THE WORKPLACE You will identify the key information appropriate to environmental changes at work and explain environmental terminology in a way that is accessible to members. The course will also examine how members can participate by evaluation problems or potential problems and identifying the opportunities for trade unions, citing aims, actions, arguments, and timescale. Key environmental definitions The development of environmental issues Environmental statements and the trade union approach Trade union environmental policies Employer s env. policies and practices Workplace issues and Members concerns 26

29 other courses LAY TUTOR TRAINING (Stage1) This intensive course runs over a 5 day residential course and deals with the basic tutoring skills needed to be a tutor at branch level. The Lay Tutor Stage 1 Training covers basic tutor training for activists who would like to train to deliver courses in their branch or more widely. On completion of it, it is a requirement that participants complete the Equalities for Lay Tutors course. UNISON s Lay tutors offer an additional kind of activist service to the union. UNISON s own lay tutor training scheme aims to ensure our membercentred learning methods help build the union. We positively encourage members of Self Organised Groups to become lay tutors. Participants who successfully complete all the elements of the full course will be qualified as a UNISON Stage 1 Lay Tutor The course covers: Why do introductions (briefing) Course contracts Education methods Education methods in trade union education (briefing) The good lay tutor Planning and Preparation Running activities Education in the branch The organising lay tutor The lay tutor in the branch Equalities in UNISON education (briefing) Planning and preparing a group based activity Dealing with problems in education sessions Action planning and course reviews EQUALITIES FOR LAY TUTORS This course has been specifically designed for UNISON lay tutors and is an integral and essential part of the UNISON lay tutor training programme. The purpose of the course is to help lay tutors improve their own education practice by: Building confidence Dealing with equality issues Developing their understanding of equality issues Understanding the deep rooted nature of prejudice and discrimination will help all lay tutors carry out their role on behalf of UNISON confidently and effectively. 27

30 national employment law courses NATIONAL ACTIVIST EDUCATION PROGRAMME: EMPLOYMENT LAW COURSES 2013 The following in-depth employment law courses supplement the range of training offered at regional level and are aimed at more experienced activists. MATERNITY AND PARENTAL RIGHTS 27 FEBRUARY: Closing date for receipt of applications: 9 January This course is for UNISON activists who need to advise members on maternity and parental rights or who are looking to improve on statutory rights through negotiation. It will help you understand the complex law relating to maternity rights and give you an opportunity to compare negotiated contractual agreements with statutory rights to identify opportunities for seeking improvements. DISABILITY DISCRIMINATION LAW MARCH: Closing date for receipt of applications: 21 January The Disability Discrimination Act has been in force since December 1996 but people still do not realise how often it applies and how it can be used to put pressure on employers to take positive steps. The course covers identifying potential cases of disability discrimination in the workplace, who the DDA applies to, how to interview members with a potential case, the extent of the employer s duties to make reasonable adjustments, the relationship between sickness issues (e.g. back injury, depression) and the DDA and recognising time-limits. It does not cover how to run a tribunal case. CONTRACTS REDUNDANCY & TUPE 4 6 MARCH: Closing date for receipt of applications: 14 January NOVEMBER: Closing date for receipt of applications: 30 September This course covers Interpretation of the contract of employment; unilateral variation of contract; potential rights on redundancy; TUPE; unfair dismissal in context of changing contracts; redundancy & TUPE. It does not cover unfair dismissal in the areas of capability and misconduct. UNFAIR DISMISSALS AND EMPLOYMENT TRIBUNALS JULY: Closing date for receipt of applications: 22 May NOVEMBER: Closing date for receipt of applications: 25 September This course covers the law of unfair dismissal: what makes a dismissal unfair; automatic unfair dismissals; the effect of the new statutory dispute resolution procedures. It follows a misconduct dismissal through every stage of preparation for a tribunal case, finishing with a mock video of the tribunal hearing. It is not expected that activists will represent at actual tribunal cases. However, by understanding the tribunal process, local activists will have a greater understanding of the necessary evidence and what is involved for the member and will be able to support those representing the member. The skills for preparing a case and representing at a tribunal will also be useful for application in internal disciplinary hearings. 28

31 national employment law courses RACE & SEX DISCRIMINATION LAW MARCH: Closing date for receipt of applications: 4 February This course covers identifying potential cases of race and sex discrimination in the workplace; overview of legislation; how to interview members with potential cases; recognising time-limits; understanding the questionnaire procedure; understanding indirect race and sex discrimination; introduction to law on sexual harassment; pregnancy, maternity and family friendly laws. It does not cover how to run a tribunal case. All national employment law courses will be held in Central London. To apply, visit for an application form and return it to: UNISON Learning & Organising Services, UNISON Centre, 130 Euston Road, London NW1 2AY. Tel Fax E.mail learning&organisingenquiries@unison.co.uk ALLOCATION OF COURSE PLACES In order to ensure the effective application of UNISON principles of Proportionality and Fair Representation places are allocated on national courses as soon as possible after the closing date instead of on a first come first served basis. In the event of courses being oversubscribed, selections will be made on the basis of achieving Fair Representation and Proportionality, as set out in UNISON Rules, and will also ensure a fair spread of participants from regions and sectors where appropriate. In-depth employment law courses supplement the range of training offered at regional level. They are aimed at experienced activists and this is also taken into account when offering places on these courses. CHARGES: Branches will be charged a fee per participant of 300 for 3-day courses, 150 for 2-day courses and 75 for 1-day courses. Accommodation, travel and care costs and a 10 per day out-of-pocket allowance will be paid from national level. FACILITATION AND DEPENDENT CARE: It is UNISON policy that no member should be deterred from applying for a course because of facilitation needs, necessary childcare or other care commitments. CANCELLATION POLICY: Where places on courses are cancelled without good cause charges will be levied as follows: Where places are cancelled within two weeks of the start of the course the cost will be 50% of the course cost. Where places are cancelled within one week of the start of the course the cancellation will be 100%. OUR COMMITMENT TO EQUALITIES As part of Unison s equal opportunities policy in education there is a questionnaire at the back of the application form. This information will be strictly confidential and used only to monitor UNISON s ability to deliver educational opportunities fairly to all sections of its membership. 29

32 course application form Name Address for correspondence Postcode Daytime telephone number address UNISON Branch UNISON Membership number Name of employer Ethnicity Please tick one box White Irish Black Caribbean Black African Black other (Please specify) Course(s) applied for: Title Date Indian Pakistani Chinese Other (Please specify) Please give details of any childcare, family or disability access requirements Do you have any dietary needs? Signature Date The information you provide and the record of your attendance to UNISON education courses may be shared within UNISON to ensure that membership and branch records are accurate and up to date. Course information may also be used for statistical purposes. THIS APPLICATION IS ONLY VALID ONCE SIGNED BY THE APPLICANT & BRANCH CONFIRMATION OF COURSE ATTENDANCE WILL BE SENT AFTER THE CLOSING DATE YOUR BRANCH WILL BE CHARGED IF YOU FAIL TO ATTEND WITHOUT NOTICE ONCE YOUR PLACE HAS BEEN CONFIRMED BY US The branch supports this application. We will meet the travel and subsistence costs if claimed. If a course fee is advertised we will pay when invoiced. Branch Signature* Date *Branch Education Co-ordinator / Branch Secretary Do you work: Part-time Full-time Please return this form to: Education & Training UNISON Cymru/Wales UNISON House Custom House Street Cardiff CF10 1AP Tel Fax g.cordrey@unison.co.uk 30

33 Notes 31

34 Notes 32

35 Plan As a new workplace rep, UNISON is committed to supporting your training and development. Your branch will help you get on the relevant training courses and will allocate you a named contact who will be able to: l answer your questions l put you in touch with the information and people who can help you along the way l have a regular catch up as you become more active in the union. Your contact could be a branch officer such as the branch education co-ordinator or an experienced steward. In larger branches, it may be a UNISON activist who has trained as mentor or a buddy. UNISON also asks you to be proactive in seeking out opportunities to put your training into practice. To get started, sit down with your contact in the branch and complete this short questionnaire together. There is space here for you to come back to each point later on so you can make a note of how things are going in each key area. 33

36 Cymru Wales 34 Published by UNISON Cymru/Wales, printed by UNISON Yorkshire & Humberside Print Unit, Leeds.