A year in UNISON: 2019 reviewed – part one

January How better to start a new year than by thinking about the future of the planet? We joined fellow energy unions GMB, Prospect and Unite –representing 200,000 workers in the sector – in calling for a “just transition” to the low-carbon economy needed to deal with climate change. The unions’ launched a template, which involved four key demands: a balanced low carbon energy mix; investment in skills and infrastructure; protecting and creating high-quality jobs and employment;  making sure no community is left behind. Closer to home – but still thinking of future generations – we kicked off our Year of Young Workers. The move recognised the fact that most young workers are contending with low wages, insecure jobs and the lack of a voice in the workplace. At the same time, we were celebrating the fact that young members are one of UNISON’s fastest growing groups. The union would spend 2019 building on its efforts to reach out to them. General secretary Dave Prentis used an invitation to Downing Street to warn then prime minister Theresa May that a no-deal Brexit would be a “catastrophe” for the economy, public services and everyone who works in them. He would have to repeat that message many times in the tumultuous months to come. February There was good news for members at Solihull sixth form college, thanks to the tenacity of library assistant and branch treasurer Julie Robinson, who won an extra eight days’ pay a year – back-date...
Source: UNISON Health care news - Category: UK Health Authors: Tags: Article News Source Type: news