The bimonthly magazine for activists – May/June 2018

Full report from ADM 2018 John Hannett retires after 14 years SPOTLIGHTCAMPAIGNING DAY IN ACTION

••• RECRUITMENT ••• HEALTH AND SAFETY ••• NEWS •••

Facebook YouTube Twitter Flickr Instagram WELCOME Comment 08 12 General secretary John Hannett

Welcome to the May/June edition of Network which is packed full of news and updates. This issue gives in-depth coverage of the 2018 Annual Delegate Meeting (ADM). ADM is one of the most important conferences in the union’s calendar as it gives activists the chance to decide the policies and priorities of the union for the coming year. Network highlights some of the major debates that took place including Equalities, Health and Safety, Housing and Health Services as well as featuring the Politics and Equalities fringe meetings. Also included is an interview with the guest speaker Keir Starmer MP the shadow secretary for Brexit. This edition also celebrates some successes. Thanks to the campaigning of our reps and members Belfast City Council rejected proposals to extend Sunday trading. In addition, Usdaw made representations to the Justice Select Committee on the Government’s proposals to raise the limit for personal injury claims. We were successful in getting the message across that these reforms would restrict access to justice. We have also been busy signing a new agreement with Vision Express for staff who work in Tesco stores. The agreement covers all 209 concessions and any future concessions that are opened. Page 20 features an article on the General Data Protection regulations. The article gives a general overview of the regulations and signposts reps to Usdaw’s online course. There are also the regular features including the ever-popular health and safety pages, recruitment and organising, equalities, membership services and activist- 11 26 in-depth. This will be my last foreword to Network as general OTHER CONTRIBUTORS ADVERTISING MANAGER secretary but I am confident that under Paddy Lillis’ Tom Foster, Doug Russell, Jo Jonathan Knight Bird and David Williams. T: 01727 739 182 leadership the union will go from strength to strength. E: jonathan@centuryone I would like to take this opportunity to thank members, Network is published PHOTOGRAPHERS publishing.uk bimonthly and distributed reps and union colleagues for all the support they have Della Batchelor, Kevin PRINTED BY to Usdaw activists. Cooper, Lee Boswell, Lisa Buxton Press given me over the years. Published by: Payne, Studio 87, Stephen USDAW Bootle, Matt Link, SWNS, For circulation enquiries 188 Wilmslow Road, Peter Wills, Rod Leon, Rob contact your divisional office. Manchester M14 6LJ Finney, In-Press, Bipin Pitrola, T: 0161 224 2804 Rez Javied and Richard Paper is sourced from Walker. sustainable forests. E: network @usdaw.org.uk ADVERTISING © Usdaw 2018 W: www.usdaw.org.uk Century One Publishing Reproduction in whole Alban Row, 27-31 Verulam or part by any means HEAD OF MEDIA & Road, St Albans, AL3 4DG without written permission COMMUNICATIONS of the publisher is strictly Mike Glover T: 01727 893 894 F: 01727 893 895 forbidden. EDITOR E: enquiries@centuryone Saiqa Khushnood publishing.uk The publisher accepts no REPORTER W: www.centuryone responsibility for errors, Sarah Sherborne publishing.uk omissions or the consequences thereof. EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Paula Barke

02 Network May/June 2018 CONTENTS

04 LATEST NEWS Northern Ireland Sunday trading campaign success, Morrisons manufacturing recruitment, the TUC march and this year’s Organising Academy all feature.

08 JOHN HANNETT RETIRES As the general secretary prepares to retire at the end of June, Network takes a look back at the challenges and successes of the past 14 years.

11 ACTIVIST IN-DEPTH North West Academy1 organising officer, active rep and branch secretary Shabana Ismail works for the Co-op and is this issue’s activist in-depth.

12 ADM 2018 The union’s 72nd Annual Delegate Meeting took place in Blackpool in April. Network takes a closer look at the delegates, debates and decisions.

20 DATA PROTECTION Th General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) came into force in May establishing one single set of rules across Europe about personal data.

21 RETIRED MEMBERS Usdaw’s annual retired members’ conference took place in May at the union’s national training centre. Mental health was the big topic up for discussion.

24 LIFELONG LEARNING A new learning agreement between Usdaw and Tesco customer fulfilment 32 centres is big news in the Southern and Eastern divisions.

/UsdawUnion Watch 26 RECRUITMENT & ORGANISING interviews with reps, Tesco Croydon rep Mike Smith talks about time out on stand-down and Tesco officials and MPs Prescot rep Pat Gibbons reports on her Pension awareness campaign day.

UsdawUnion Browse the union’s photo galleries. 32 SPOTLIGHT DAY Reps were out in force across all seven divisions promoting a ‘better deal for @UsdawUnion All the latest photos dads’ as part of this year’s Supporting Parents and Carers Spotlight Day. and videos on Instagram

Follow 10 MEMBER SERVICES UsdawUnion on Facebook 23 EQUALITIES

@UsdawUnion If 28 HEALTH & SAFETY you’re talking about Network remember

#NetworkMag Regulars 30 YOUR LETTERS & PICS LET’S GET SOCIAL

Network May/June 2018 03 NEWS Follow us @UsdawUnion #NetworkMag

Vision Express sign agreement Tesco Direct proposed closure

Tesco has announced that Direct staff. they propose to close their “Usdaw officials and senior online fulfilment centre at reps will now enter into Fenny Lock near Milton consultation talks with the Keynes, which will also company where we will look impact on some jobs at the closely at the business case for company’s Welwyn Garden the proposed closure. City head office and Dundee “Our priorities will be to customer service centre. support, advise and represent National officer Joanne our members through this McGuinness said: “This is difficult period, and to get the devastating news for Tesco best possible deal for them.” l-r: Vision Express head of human resources Helen Davies and human resources director Kate Clayton with Usdaw general secretary John Hannett. Usdaw has negotiated a recognised a trade union. Justice for injured workers new recognition agreement The agreement will ensure covering all Vision Express that Usdaw is able to fully Usdaw welcomed the Justice evidence-based campaign staff who work in Tesco represent our members who Select Committee report on opposing employer and public stores. TUPE transferred from Tesco a Ministry of Justice proposal liability claims under £2,000 The agreement comes Opticians to Vision Express in to raise the limit for personal being pushed into the small following the sale of Tesco’s December. injury claims from £1,000 claims courts. The complexity of in-store optician business last “We welcome the to £5,000 for Road Traffic workplace injury cases makes year and will cover all 209 opportunity of forging a long Accident (RTA) cases and them entirely unsuitable for a concessions and any future and constructive relationship to £2,000 for workplace and small claims court, where the concessions that are opened. with the company.” other non-RTA injuries. costs of taking a case cannot General secretary John Vision Express is the third Earlier in the year Usdaw be recovered.” Hannett said: “This is the first largest opticians in the UK made representations to the time that Vision Express has employing over 4,500 people. Justice Select Committee that the reforms would restrict access to justice for victims From your of workplace accidents or diseases. desktop Usdaw general secretary to your John Hannett said: “We are delighted that the select doorstep committee has listened to our Nationwide delivery available on all cars New deputy general secretary

Dave McCrossen, currently UP TO 4,000 USED CARS eastern divisional officer, PRICE CHECKED DAILY, has been elected as deputy COMPREHENSIVELY CHECKED 61 Reg Fiat 500 NOW ONLY AND FULLY GUARANTEED 1.2 Pop 3dr (Start general secretary of Usdaw. Stop), White, 53K £4266 Dave, a former employee of the Co-operative Retail Society, started his Usdaw career when he became an area organiser in 1989. Sixteen years later 63 Reg Vauxhall Astra 60 Reg Nissan Qashqai 11 Reg Peugeot 5008 2.0 he was promoted to deputy 1.3 CDTi Est, Silver, 63K 1.5 dCi Tekna 5dr, Red, 75K HDi Exclusive 5dr, Black, 65K NOW NOW NOW divisional officer and in 2013 he ONLY ONLY ONLY £5486 £7999 £7648 was successful in securing the Hassle free, risk free car purchasing for Usdaw members and their families position of divisional officer. and make Usdaw stronger, so Part Exchange Full History Flexible Finance Nationwide Welcome Check Available Delivery General secretary John that we can continue to improve Hannett said: “Congratulations workers’ lives and deliver for our usdawdrive.co.uk to Dave on his election. We look members.” Call 0333 130 0290 forward to working with him in Dave will take up his new post Finance subject to status. Terms and conditions apply. Applicants must be 18 or over. Guarantee/indemnity may be required. We can introduce you to a limited number of carefully selected finance providers. We may receive a commission from them for the introduction. his new role to grow the union on 2 July 2018.

04 Network May/June 2018 Email the editor your views [email protected] NEWS

Tesco Direct proposed closure Sunday trading campaign success Publications UPDATE PENSIONS n Usdaw Pensions Guide – 2018/19 edition n 10 reasons not to opt out of an Occupational Pension Scheme n Pensions Online Home Study (A4 Poster) n Sainsbury’s Retirement Savings Plan (Factsheet) n Salary Exchange Explained n Argos Pension Factsheet

YOUNG WORKERS n National Young Workers' Weekend Poster

Usdaw welcomed the delighted that city councillors well for over 20 years, and gives EQUALITIES decision by Belfast City again rejected extended Sunday everyone a little bit of what n Parents and Carers – A Council to reject the proposal trading by an emphatic 42 votes they want. Retailers can trade, Better Deal for Dads to extend Sunday trading to 13. customers can shop, staff can (Leaflet 426) hours. “The current Sunday trading work; and shopworkers can n Working Parents Know Divisional officer Mike Aylward arrangements are a fair spend some time with their Your Rights (Leaflet 381) said: “Our members are compromise, which has worked families.” FREEDOM FROM FEAR n While you're looking after the shop, who's looking Recruitment drive focus on Morrisons after you? (Leaflet 362)

TRANSPORT n Drivers' Handbook n Drivers’ Safety Survey

COMPANY SPECIFIC n Know Your Rights at Morrisons n Usdaw – the Union for Morrisons: food, manufacturing and distribution (Leaflet 427) n Usdaw the Trade Union for Aldi Warehouse and Distribution Workers - A5 Leaflet n Usdaw the Trade Union for Lidl Warehouse and Distribution Workers - A5 Leaflet

General secretary elect ongoing national campaign sites across the UK employing Download and view at: Paddy Lillis met reps and focusing on recruitment and 6,500 staff and producing all officials at the Morrisons organising in the company’s types of food from freshly baked dtp.usdaw.co.uk/ manufacturing site at manufacturing and distribution bread and seafood to fresh Publications Winsford in February. sector. produce, chilled foods and meat Catalogue His visit was part of an Morrisons has 21 industrial products.

Network May/June 2018 05 NEWS Email the editor your views [email protected]

IN BRIEF... Lidl campaign continues Marks and Spencer closures Usdaw continued their long- but no thanks’. This position Alex. “Lidl’s refusal to recognise Marks and Spencer plans to running bid for recognition unfairly denies the choice of staff Usdaw at Enfield tells the public close 100 stores by 2022, with further campaign days to be represented by a trade that they do not want that kind accelerating a reorganisation at Lidl distribution centres union.” of positive relationship with their that it says is “vital” for the across the UK. Alex Mayer MEP for the East staff. retailer’s future. Of the 100 General secretary elect of England region joined Usdaw “If Lidl wants to be seen as a stores, 21 have already Paddy Lillis said: “Lidl has so far campaigners at the Enfield site. good employer, they should sit been shut and M&S has responded to our reasonable “Usdaw works constructively down with Usdaw and negotiate now revealed the location of requests for initial talks about with employers to create a a recognition agreement or at 14 further sites to close. recognising Usdaw as the union better environment for workers the very last allow officials onsite for Lidl staff with a firm ‘thanks, and businesses alike,” said to recruit staff to the union.” Sainsbury’s and Asda merger The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has launched an investigation into whether the merger could reduce competition within any market or markets in the UK for goods or services.

Dairy Crest Dairy Crest plans to invest £85m in the expansion of its USDAW MARCH WITH TUC FOR A NEW DEAL cheese factory in Cornwall to meet growing demand for Usdaw activists joined tens cheddar in markets such as of thousands of campaigners China.The investment would from unions across the be phased over the next five country to march through years. London in May for ‘a new deal for working people’. Charity at ADM 2018 The TUC led campaign called Activists raised thousands of for a minimum wage of £10 pounds for local and national an hour, banning zero-hours charities at various events contracts, proper funding for during the conference. the NHS and public services, n The North West division’s a repeal of the trade union event raised £1,285.06. act and a crackdown on tax n Young workers raised dodgers. £1,230.46 for the charity General secretary John Young Minds. Hannett said: “The march n The Southern and Eastern comes against a backdrop of divisions’ event raised austerity, with real wages still “We need an alternative: a discrimination. £3,200. lower than before the crash in growing economy with great “The trade union movement n The North Eastern 2008. Three million workers are jobs in every nation and region stands up for and represents division’s event raised stuck on zero-hour contracts, of the UK, a boost to incomes, millions all over the UK and £2,000. in agency work and in low paid the right to a voice at work together we demand a new deal self-employment. and a society that roots out for working people.”

with

visit www.usdaw.org.uk/win visit Sponsored by UsdawProtect. Closing date 29th July 2018. Terms apply. www.usdaw.org.uk/usdawprotect

06 Network May/June 2018 NEWS ORGANISING OFFICERS

Seventy-two active reps started their North Eastern journey on Academy1 in May. division The organising officers, as they will be front l-r: Steven McGregor, Maxine Watson, Samantha known during their six-month secondment, Hodgson, Simon Webb, have swapped their day jobs for organising and Michelle Spurr, training recruiting in their seven respective divisions. officer Tracey Howton, Guido Amore, Innocent General secretary elect Paddy Lillis welcomed Igiehon and divisional the reps. “The Academy is the only training officer Joanne Thomas. programme of its kind in the trade union Back l-r: Ryan Dunn, Kevin Robson, Corinne Wilson, movement and provides an excellent opportunity Peter Stanton, deputy for reps to play a bigger part in strengthening the divisional officer Cathy union’s presence across all Usdaw sectors,” said Godfrey, Christina Distefano, Susan Hallam, Jessica Paddy. “They’re in for a challenging but rewarding Szczambura, Scott Castelow six-months. I wish them all the best of luck.” and Haroon Hanif.

Eastern division l-r: Amanda Fleming, Michelle Tungate, Abu Jalloh, Midlands division l-r: Darren Atkinson, Marc Elliott, Charmaine Finch, Donna Hannon, Alison Wilson and Maxwell Adu-Yeboah. Stuart Batchelar, Siana James, Nicholas Baker and Darren Vickery.

South Wales and Western division l-r: Charlie Woods, Avril Minshall, Scottish division l-r: Darroch Logan, Susan Ballantyne, Craig Allen, Tracey Davies, Mary Smith, Marie McCallion, Elaina Murray, Kevin Jacqueline McKenzie, Daniel Reid, Veronica Honeyman, Graham Menzies, Perryman. Marek Niedbala, George Stewart and Karen O’Neill.

Southern division front l-r: Pamela Dawes, Catrina Young, Jason Astell, North West division l-r: David Catterall, Farooq Hussain-Dad, Derek Beverly Belameh and Jennie Lacey. Back l-r: Tony Needham, Mike James, Kelly, Christopher Evans, Kathleen Morrison, Mary Bell, Michele Bailey, training officer Terry Louder, Clifford Price, Rebecca Head, Shirley Dunaway Ian Hughes, Shabana Ismail, Natalie Sergeant, Samantha Sproston, David and Caroline Nash. Matthews and Sabrina Brennan.

Network May/June 2018 07 JOHN HANNETT “Running a trade union against the backdrop of a global recession and a Conservative government has been tough but it has amazed me how resilient, dignified and professional our reps have been when faced with these challenges”

FAREWELL JOHN

General secretary John What are you most we can meet the challenges of and knowledge through our Hannett will be retiring proud of? the 21st century workplace. This academies, stand-down and on 29 June after spending Our reps and activists who not included improving the way Summer Schools. We provide 14 years heading up only gave me the opportunity Usdaw planned strategically first class training that covers one of the UK’s largest to lead the union, but also while ensuring we maximised everything from how to run a and fastest growing unions. enthusiastically support our resources. Our Supporting campaign day to presentation John started his career as an everything we’re trying to and Developing Reps programme skills. Our training courses push operative at Guinness in 1970. achieve. recognises that reps play a crucial people out of their personal He joined Usdaw at the same I know the last few years role representing, recruiting and professional comfort time and became an activist haven’t been easy. There’s been and organising members. This zones which is challenging as soon after. John took up the economic and political upheaval programme puts our reps at the well as rewarding. In recent post of area organiser in 1985, that has led companies to heart of everything we do. It years a majority of the new national officer in 1990 before embark on major cost cutting ensures that they receive the best appointments of area organisers being elected as deputy general and restructuring exercises. This training and support, within six have been drawn from the reps secretary in 1997. In 2004 has meant our reps have been months. The programme aims who have been on Academy or he was elected as general on the forefront of supporting to deliver knowledgeable reps on stand-down. secretary. members with these changes who can represent members on In addition, John has also while coming to terms with a wide range of issues, have the Has the modernisation held a number of high profile the impact of the changes confidence to persuade non- programme yielded roles including Low Pay themselves. It has amazed me members to join the union and results? Commissioner, ACAS council how resilient, dignified and be able to raise the profile of the By modernising the union, member, President of UNI- professional our reps have union in their workplace. we made it fit for purpose Europa Commerce, a member been when faced with difficult and ensured we could meet of Labour’s National Executive challenges. Are there many present and future challenges Committee and the TUC General development head on. I think the numbers Council. What has Usdaw been opportunities for reps speak for themselves. In 2017 Network talks to John about doing to support its reps? within Usdaw? we recruited record numbers the successes and challenges of In 2007 I launched a drive to Reps have a fantastic opportunity of new members, over 93,000. running a trade union. modernise the union to ensure to further develop their skills This recruitment success can be

08 Network May/June 2018 JOHN HANNETT

directly linked to the modernising development and to improve price. The Government initially protect them and their families agenda which implemented our their career opportunities. refused to publish its Brexit from the fallout. organising strategy. impact studies and only did But there’s more work to do. Usdaw has been when it was forced to do so by a Will you miss Usdaw? Although the Big 4 supermarket improving its Commons vote. Every economic I will miss being part of an workforce is one of the communication strategy impact study shows that the UK organisation dedicated to biggest trade union organised to better keep reps in will be worse off when leaving improving the lives of workers. workforces in the economy, the loop. How is this the EU, particularly those I want to thank all activists there are still hundreds of progressing? areas that heavily voted for and Usdaw staff for their support thousands of workers in the Big In an era of social media and it such as the North East and during my tenure. 4 who aren’t members of the instantaneous communication the Midlands. The millionaire I also want to wish the new union. On top of this, we are still we are working hard to Conservative MPs pushing for a general secretary Paddy Lillis the coming up against employers ensure that our reps hear hard Brexit at all costs will not best of luck. I am sure Usdaw who are refusing to recognise us news from us first. Through be affected – their money will will thrive under his leadership. despite their staff wanting to be regular e-newsletters and other members of a recognised union. e-communications we try to keep We are running campaigns for our reps and members informed recognition in Lidl and Aldi, and of developments. We have also there is the long running Marks been working hard on improving and Spencer campaign. and updating our website so that We have been honing our it’s an additional resource for our campaigning strategy for years reps. A place where they can find to ensure we are as effective as news, updates and guidance. possible. We have won the TUC We are currently working on award for Best Union Campaign developing company specific for Freedom from Fear, Protect content that only reps can access. Christmas Day, Save our Sundays This aims to give reps everything and our Supporting Parents they need to carry out their role and Carers Campaign won the from agreements, policies and TUC Equalities Award. Reps updates to FAQs etc. The area and members have embraced is initially focused on providing our campaigns and have been all the appropriate resources instrumental in shaping and for Tesco retail reps as they contributing to their success. make up around 50 per cent of Thanks to our Freedom From Usdaw reps. We are working on Fear campaign the issue of extending this to cover our other violence against shopworkers agreements. is now on the political, as well as the retailers’ agenda. What has been most Our Protect Christmas Day challenging? campaign collected over 300,000 Running a trade union against the signatures and letters to MPs backdrop of a global recession which prevented large stores and a Conservative government from opening on Christmas Day. has been tough. The trade union The Save our Sundays campaign movement has been under attack has repeatedly thwarted the since the Conservatives came Government’s attempts to extend into power. Sunday working. Not only that but their brutal We’ve also recently heard and cruel policies have caused that the proposed cuts to the real hardship for working people, Union Learning Fund have been single parents, the sick and reversed. This is an excellent disabled. In one of the wealthiest result and one that we have countries in the world it is frankly campaigned hard for alongside disgusting that child poverty, the TUC. This will allow us to homelessness and the use of continue promoting lifelong food banks are rising. learning in the workplace and My worry is that the people give thousands of our members who voted Brexit for a better life the opportunity to get back to for themselves and their children learning for their own personal will end up paying a very heavy

Network May/June 2018 09 Find out more www.usdaw.org.uk/offers* Usdaw member off ers*See Terms and Conditions for individual offers on the website.

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Airport Parking/Lounges/Hotels Cottage Breaks Car Hire Forest Holidays Commuter Club Gym Membership James Villa Holidays Fiat Spa Gift Cards and Vouchers Funeral Planning Hotels and Short Breaks Startrescue Usdaw Health Plan Mini-holidays Usdawdrive Gas and Electric Usdaw Dental Plan NUS Extra Parkdean Resorts Vauxhall Cars Vision Express Pontins Vehicle Servicing Voice Mobile

summer HOLIDAY OFFERS Find out more www.usdaw.org.uk/offers* Usdaw member off ers*See Terms and Conditions for individual offers on the website.

Apple Beer52 Accident Protection Cover Debt Advice Crown Decorating Centres Cinema Tickets Car Insurance Financial/Mortgage/Pensions Advice Domestic Appliances Frankie & Benny’s Female Cancer Cover Pensions Annuity Service Flowers Golf Membership Home Insurance SureSave Savings Plan Magazine Subscriptions Magazine Subscriptions Life Insurance The Co-operative Credit Union Usdaw Prepaid Cashback Card National Trust Gift Cards Pet Insurance UsdawRewards Cashback Online Ticket Store Travel Insurance Virgin Wines Theme Parks and Attractions 50+ Personal Accident Cover Virgin Experience Days Free £5,000 Accidental Death Cover

Airport Parking/Lounges/Hotels Cottage Breaks Car Hire Forest Holidays Commuter Club Gym Membership James Villa Holidays Fiat Spa Gift Cards and Vouchers Funeral Planning Hotels and Short Breaks Startrescue Usdaw Health Plan Mini-holidays Usdawdrive Gas and Electric Usdaw Dental Plan NUS Extra Parkdean Resorts Vauxhall Cars Vision Express Pontins Vehicle Servicing Voice Mobile

summer HOLIDAY OFFERS I’ve justcompleted thebranchofficers onhowtobeagoodrep. information was brilliantandthereso much shop stewardstrainingcourse – thetutor momentofit.I’vealsodonemy every onAcademy1andenjoying I’m currently union trainingcourses? Have youbeenonany andadvice. usefulforinformation very somuch. Thewebsiteisalso I’ve learnt The trainingIhavereceivedisfantasticand have asarep? What supportdoyou provides youwithbrillianttraining. aspectof beingarep–Usdaw learning giving themadvice.Ialsoenjoythe colleagues, beingavoiceforthemand Going outandrepresentingmy part ofbeingarep? What’s yourfavourite curve. of it.It’sagreatlearning singlepart and I’menjoyingevery well for mycolleagues.Itisgoingvery challenge andwantedtobeavoice It wasbychance.Ilookingfora lastyear? a rep Why didyoudecidetobecome in BusinessStudies. and graduatedwithaBAHons I studiedatHuddersfieldUniversity working attheCo-op? What didyoudobefore sure thestorehitsitstargets. deliveries. I’maccountableformaking do weeklystaffschedulesandplan the storefitforcustomers,butIalso months. Themainthingismaking I’ve alsobeenactingmanagerforfive thestoresmoothly.My jobistohelprun What’s involvedinyourjob? division, inthespotlight… theNorthWestIsmail, from Network putsactivistShabana If youwant tobethenext activistin-depthemail: SPOT

[email protected] In the as legalplusandhealthsafety. which focusonparticularsubjectssuch And I’vebeentoafewfederationschools course whereImadesomegoodfriends. important for members? important formembers? branchmeetings Are confidence andboostmyknowledge. felt bydoingthisIwouldgainmore meetings andmeetingotherreps.I secretary. Ienjoytakingpartinbranch for afewmonthsbeforeIgotelectedas Yes, I’mthebranchsecretary. Iwasrep your branch? youinvolvedwith Are for yourselfandotherstoo. relationships. You’re achievingsomething growing yourconfidenceandbuilding Definitely. It’sfantasticwayof toothers? being arep Would yourecommend memberbutifIcouldwould. every enough hoursinthedaytogoandmeet advising existingmembers.There’snot newmembersand them. Ienjoyrecruiting basis. Ienjoymeetingpeopleandhelping I wouldlovetodothisjobonafull-time not enoughtime? ofbutthere’s like todomore anythingyouwould Is there confidence tospeakupifneededto. with anyissuesaswellhavingthe confidence hasgrown.Icandeal I’ve becomestrongerandmy became anactivist? as apersonsinceyou Do youfeelyou’vechanged A goodchallenge thatmakesmefeel What motivatesyouinlife? questions andgetadvicewhere needed. gives memberstheopportunity toask doing nowandinthefuture.It also know theirreps,whattheunionis Yes, astheyareawayofgetting to LIGHT be strongenough–heismybestfriend. without hissupportIdon’tthinkwould me goingandhaspushedthisfar, confidence inlife.Myhusbandkeeps as I’mgoingtoachieveknowledgeand for thosethatdon’tknowwheretoturn. probably openfacilitieslikewalkincentres I wouldalsofocusonmentalhealthand getsequalpay.pays lesstaxbuteveryone change thelawfortax,ensuringeveryone minimum wageof£10.Iwouldprobably getsa I wouldmakesurethateveryone PrimeMinister? were What wouldyoudoif socialising withmyfriendsandfamily. of Britain.Ialsoenjoyreadingbooksand with myhusbandandseeingthehistory I enjoygoingforwalksinthecountry time? in yourspare What doyouliketo months. the arrivalofourfirstborn infour amazing husbandandawaiting Best moment...Marryingmy but funnyandveryambitious. I am...bubbly, verytalkative,crazy Hosseini Book MountainsEchoedbyKhaled Food Pizzaandchips Music Bollywoodmusic TV BritishBake-off Favourite: island... Phone,food&husband Three thingstotakeadesert trivia Been activesince2017 Age 32 Job Full-timeteammanager Employer TheCo-opGroup facts Network May/June 201811 ACTIVIST IN-DEPTH ADM 2018 72 nd

BLACKPOOL 2018

Paddy Lillis

Jeff Broome

ADM – POLICY IN

THE MAKING Jane Jones Pictured left: John Hannett

Usdaw activists and officials housing, health and safety, to education, housing and the the Conservatives a license to gathered in the Winter pensions and benefits were health services. eradicate hard won employment Gardens in Blackpool for all debated by passionate and There were a number of very and human rights. the Annual Delegate Meeting enthusiastic speakers, many of emotional and moving speeches Activists were also kept busy at (ADM). whom were first time delegates. that came from individuals who the afternoon fringe meetings on ADM is the biggest event in Speaking in front of a thousand had suffered a great loss. They politics and equalities and fund Usdaw’s calendar, bringing people can be a daunting wanted things to change so that raising events in the evenings. activists together from across experience but the delegates other families did not suffer like General secretary John the UK and giving them the were well prepared and they had. Hannett and general secretary chance to meet fellow reps from presented their propositions with With Brexit around the corner elect Paddy Lillis replied to all the same companies. Usdaw is confidence. delegates heard from Keir the debates with president Jeff one of the few unions that has The unifying themes of the Starmer MP the Brexit shadow Broome chairing his last ADM in an annual national conference. conference were fairness, justice secretary. his own amicable style. Around 900 delegates voted and equality for all. Socially Keir updated the delegates Executive council member on propositions to decide the conscious delegates raised better on the Brexit negotiations and Jane Jones ensured the smooth union’s policies and priorities for treatment of homeless people reiterated the message that running of her first ADM as the the next 12 months. and refugees. Others wanted the Brexit should not make working chair of the standing orders Wages, education, crime, system to be fairer when it came people poorer, nor should it give committee.

12 Network May/June 2018 ADM 2018 Equality for all General secretary elect ways in which UK society could forums to organise events for Paddy Lillis moved the better support and therefore National LGBT History Month. executive council statement benefit from the skills and “Alan Turing was a codebreaker on Older Workers and on the experience of older workers.” during the war, “said Peter. many challenges they face. The equalities debate saw “Thanks to his work the war “We pay tribute to the delegates speak in defence was shortened by a number of contribution older workers make of equality legislation, they years.” Peter told conference that Michael Anderson to the UK economy, workforce highlighted LGBT issues and Alan was later arrested for being and the trade union movement,” spoke against tabloids that gay and subjected to chemical said Paddy. “Older workers face spread division and hatred. castration. He committed suicide three key pressures: money by eating an apple laced in worries; health and performance, Human rights cyanide. “Alan saved this country. and balancing work with caring Michael Anderson (G026) So, let’s talk about people like commitments. told conference that the Human him.” “The union is continuing to Rights Act and the Equality Act press employers to pay higher were under threat from the Stop funding hate hourly rates and make bigger Conservatives who were looking Alex Bingham (A051) called contributions towards their to dilute or repeal the acts. for the executive council to back pension schemes, but much “The Conservatives reduced the Stop Funding Hate campaign more needs to be done. funding for the Equality and by asking the companies we Lisa Willis “Members aged 50 plus Human Rights Commission have agreements with to stop repeatedly tell us that they are which devastated the ability of advertising in the Daily Mail, the often still expected to do the the European Human Rights Sun and the Express. “In 2016, same work that they did 20 years Commission to effectively two tourists were confused with ago. Rather than employers enforce the legislation,” said being terrorists. The Sun was adapting workplaces to reflect Michael. “This union must outraged because they were the workforce is ageing, they engage to defend the Human white. So, it printed a handy are pushing older workers into Rights Act and the Equality Act.” guide of what a terrorist looks retirement or putting them like. They were all Muslims,” through capability procedures. Gender recognition said Alex. “Anders Breivik, the “The third key issue is how Lisa Willis (G012) wanted Norwegian who killed over 70 older members are the main the executive council to lobby people, because he thought the Peter Wolfe carers for elderly parents, the Government to abolish the Norwegian government was partners, family members and current process of applying for betraying Norway by tolerating grandchildren. Despite this, a gender recognition certificate. Islam was not mentioned. older workers are struggling to “The current process is long- Because he did not fit into get their caring commitments winded, invasive and ridiculous,” their narrative that Muslims are taken seriously by employers. said Lisa. “The application forms terrorists. Katie Hopkins has Their caring commitments are are like encyclopaedias and then called migrants ‘cockroaches’ seen as unimportant, voluntary a group of strangers decides and has called for the ‘final arrangements rather than whether or not you can change solution’ for Muslims.” essential. your gender. It costs £12 to “This proposition is not an “Building trade union change your name, no questions attack on free speech. They can organisation and strengthening asked. Whereas, this costs a publish what they want. But we Alex Bingham employment rights are horrendous £140 and even then, don’t have to pay for it.” fundamental to making our a panel can reject your request. workplaces work for older This draconian measure needs to workers. Strengthening the right stop. This is a campaigning union to request flexible working, with equality at the forefront of making it harder for employers its agenda. We need to fight for to justify refusing requests, this to be changed.” extending the protection of the Equality Act to carers and LGBT history month grandparents, introducing Peter Wolfe (K076) called for statutory carers’ leave. the National Equalities Advisory “These are just some of the Group and the divisional equality First time speakers

Network May/June 2018 13 ADM 2018 Staffing, security and self-service

The Wages and Conditions 50,000 self-service tills in the UK. essence a company policy. No debate discussed concerns Employers say they’re efficient laws are broken if a staff member Sherry O’Brien around security, self-service and customers love them. I makes a sale to someone tills, age-related sales and personally avoid them. There is without asking for ID, unless they understaffing. a perception that self-service is are actually underage. Judging easy. But supervising so many whether someone looks under Self-service tills tills is far from easy. Providing 25 is not always easy. Proper, in- Sherry O’Brien (K162) customer support, sorting depth training is needed, to give operates a self-service till in problems, carrying out ID checks our members the knowledge and Marks and Spencer. “I have never and preventing shrinkage places confidence to deal with age- been trained. I had to figure it our members under a huge related sales. We will continue to out by myself,” said Sherry. “I’m amount of stress and pressure. work with employers to educate going round and round teaching Where there is a company policy customers around Think 25 and customers how to use tills that around staffing of tills than the to provide better training and will eventually get rid of my job!” company should adhere to the support for staff.” Graham Ford First time speaker Graham policy.” Ford (E093) recounted his Understaffing experiences of being on self- Think 25 Val Cooke (C051) has worked service. “I have eight self-service Tracy Millard (A098) spoke for Tesco for 25 years. “I feel tills and four scan as you on age-related sales. “Employer qualified to say how this shop,” said Graham. “You are training for Think 25 should not company has changed. How constantly dealing with bagging be a tick box exercise. I know retail has changed,” said Val. problems, age-restricted sales, of a member who was trained “There are over 400 members theft prevention. It’s a lot of whilst working behind the of staff in my store and only responsibility for one person. tobacco kiosk,” said Tracy. “If three team supports. We end And if you get it wrong there someone follows the policy and up running up and down like is always the threat of being makes a judgement call but gets lunatics. My pedometer tells Paul Foot interviewed and disciplined. It it wrong then it should not go to me I’m doing over eight miles can be very stressful.” a disciplinary if the person is over a day. This means I’m not Paul Foot (C045) said: “I’ve 18 and no law has been broken.” giving customers the service been told that customers want Jon Robinson (K145) said: they deserve. There aren’t self-service. But I know from “I was on an informal warning enough hours in the day to do speaking to customers they hate for a year which has just cleared. everything.” them with a passion. Self-service This means I now ID everyone. General secretary elect Paddy is automation through the back If customers want to purchase Lillis responded: “In recent door.” age-restricted products then it is years members have seen an General secretary elect Paddy up to them to carry ID and prove endless cycle of job losses and Lillis replied to the propositions their age. It should not be down restructures. which the executive council to shopworkers who can end up “Economic pressure to Tracy Millard was supporting. “There are being disciplined and fined.” save costs has resulted in General secretary elect Paddy reduced staffing levels in many Lillis replied: “Age restrictions on workplaces. sales exist for good reason,” said “Understaffing affects morale, Paddy. “Companies need to stay reduces productivity levels and within the law and they have a increases stress and absence duty to protect young people. levels. Members are telling us “But it is not acceptable that that they are overwhelmed by Usdaw members are the ones their workload. who suffer the consequences “Nationally we will continue of poor policies and a lack of to be vocal about the impact guidance. constant change is having on our JonJon Robinson Robinson Val Cooke “Think 25 checks are in members.”

14 Network May/June 2018 ADM 2018

Every year the politics and equalities sections host their own fringe meetings at ADM. The themes are different FRINGE BENEFIT each year but cover issues important to Usdaw members.

almost a year after being elected to shreds, at the same time the “By contrast the Conservatives POLITICS the Labour MP for High Peak nation’s debt has doubled. After in government introduced the The theme of this year’s politics constituency. Brexit we have real fears that Trade Union Act, which sought fringe meeting was ‘Politics “After all my years in the the Conservatives will attack to severely undermine political matters to Usdaw members’. Labour Party I didn’t think I workers’ rights so it is crucial funds and prevent us from Ruth George MP, Usdaw’s could feel more hatred of what that the trade unions work with running effective campaigns on former political officer, made the Tories do to working people, Labour to defend workers.” key issues around enhancing a welcome return to ADM until I sat across from them in the General secretary elect Paddy health and safety, improving House of Commons and listened Lillis talked about the importance the minimum wage, preventing to how disconnected they are of engaging members in politics violence, threats and abuse from people’s lives,” said Ruth. and the real difference this could against shopworkers and many “Public services are being make to their lives. others. hollowed out by government “We only have to look at what “Usdaw will engage our cuts and the changes in universal Labour delivered in government members in politics, improve credit will leave the average to see that difference: National political activism and become a family around £2,000 worse off. Minimum Wage, Trade Union force to be reckoned with.” Police cuts are directly causing an Modernisation Fund, lifelong increase in crime, including theft learning, signing the Social from shops and all the problems Chapter which introduced basic that causes shopworkers. employment rights, trade union “Austerity has cut our rights and much more,” said economy and public services Paddy.

better,” said Paddy. throughout the union because ADM IN BRIEF EQUALITIES “As general secretary, I will this sends a clear signal that the The theme of this year’s ensure the union continues union is open and welcoming Union subs equalities fringe meeting was to champion issues affecting to women at all levels. Delegates voted ‘150 years of the TUC and the women members. Our union “I am proud of the work that overwhelmingly to increase role women have played’. is attempting to take up the Usdaw is doing to reach out subs by 6p a week meaning Lynn Collins regional issues that matter to women to women. I look around the Scale A members will pay secretary of the North West like never before. Issues such union and see the way that £2.42 and Scale C will pay TUC opened the meeting with as: sexual harassment; the women have transformed the £1.55 a week from 2 July. a passionate and engaging menopause, juggling work union. Issues like mental health presentation about three and family life; listening to and juggling work with caring Blackpool women – Mary Bamber, Mary older women; violence against responsibilities are now part of Usdaw extended its contract McArthur and Jeanie Mole – women, and safe journeys to our DNA.” to host ADM at Blackpool women who either fought for work. By doing this we want Winter Gardens until 2024. suffrage or fought to organise to prove to women members Usdaw general secretary John other women at work. that the union understands the Hannett said: “Since 1947 our General secretary elect reality of their daily lives. delegates have always found it Paddy Lillis paid tribute to the “There is still work to do. to be a fantastic place to meet, women who had been involved Barriers remain to women’s debate and vote on important in defending and promoting greater participation in unions, union matters and I fully working class interests to name but a few: branch support the union’s decision throughout the history of the meetings in the evenings; to commit to Blackpool for at trade union movement. jargon and the way meetings least the next six years.” “Over the years I have heard are run and women’s issues many women in Usdaw talk being treated as personal about how being active in problems rather than trade the union has changed them union issues. Women need and changed their lives for the to see other women visible

Network May/June 2018 15 ADM 2018 Safety at the forefront

Health and Safety has shouldn’t be considered in other that we are fully consulted on any been the focus of trade workplaces – including retail – changes and that the changes unions since their inception where workers are expected to proposed are reasonable and over 150 years ago. The stand for hours on end.” safe for workers.” health and safety debate highlighted that despite Labour planning Lone working everything that has been models Jackie McKenzie (G012) called Henry Clark achieved there is still more Lisa Willis (G012) called for for the abolition of lone working. work to do. The executive a review of labour planning “I’ve worked in a petrol station council supported all models used in retail. for over 18 years so I know only propositions raised. “These sales only labour too well the struggles we face,” models are completely said Jackie. “The reality of lone Anti-fatigue matting flawed,” said Lisa. “There’s no working is that I can only take a Henry Clark (G003) called contingency to cover sickness, break when there’s cover. Even for anti-fatigue matting in a bid busy trading periods or customer when I get break I have to take it to reduce the injuries suffered service. More importantly they in the department which means by colleagues. “We carried do not take into account people I am constantly interrupted. It’s out two short surveys in store. with disabilities, capability issues difficult to give good customer Respondents highlighted or members on flexible working. service while trying to watch the problems with their feet, knees, There simply aren’t enough kiosk, the forecourt and drive- Jackie McKenzie hips and lower back that require hours in store. How do we fix it? offs. The solutions are simple: long term medication,” said We need proper time and motion employ more staff and train Henry. “There is a cost to anti- studies that take into account existing staff to cover breaks and fatigue matting but this can be capabilities, availability and how lunches.” offset by reduced absence.” each store is different.” General secretary John General secretary John General secretary John Hannett said: “In our Freedom Hannett responded. “Research Hannett agreed. “Inappropriate From Fear campaign we have has shown that standing on labour planning can cause a made the case to employers hard floors for a period of over number of hazards for workers, that lone working is not safe four hours causes significant including work-related stress, and as a union we oppose it risk of lower back pain, affects fatigue, and back or limb for our members. Usdaw has blood circulation and aggravates injuries,” said John. “Not to produced extensive guidance Stewart Walker conditions such as varicose mention accidents due to high for employers. And where lone veins,” said John. “Anti-fatigue workloads. working is still happening we matting is already used in “Our negotiators must always would want assurances that operating theatres in hospitals. focus on ensuring company strong safety systems are in “There is no reason why it labour planning models are fair, place.” A fairer housing system The housing debate become homeless for lots of the right to affordable housing demonstrated that reasons: unaffordable housing, that is built to a decent standard Heather Neagle homelessness, housing poverty, unemployment and life and that ensures the health regulations and rent events such as a breakdown of and safety of the tenants,” said equality were high on the a relationship. Our job is not to Paddy. “The Government should agenda for Usdaw members. judge. Our job is lift the fallen, support local authorities to use restore the broken and heal the powers to take over properties Homelessness hurting. This should also be the that have been empty for at least Stewart Walker (G372) made Government’s job.” six months. Morally, as a society, a compelling case for using General secretary elect we cannot continue to allow empty buildings to alleviate Paddy Lillis responded to so many homes to lie empty, homelessness. “Homelessness the propositions that were while more and more people is dangerous, devastating and supported by the executive are sleeping rough or couch isolating,” said Stewart. “People council. “Everyone should have surfing.” Paul Holland

16 Network May/June 2018 ADM 2018 Safety at the forefront Better health services During the health service Bereavement centres why we should all have the same debate delegates brought Marc Elliott (E032) made an access to support, counselling forward propositions based emotional case for bereavement and practical advice to help deal on real life examples that centres for parents who have lost with bereavement.” were moving and emotional. a child. Raising this for a close The debate was wide ranging friend of his, Wendy Mills, Marc Cancer services and covered issues from said: “Wendy couldn’t be here Kay Bond (K145) called for preventing the dismantling today but she sent in this. ‘On 4 equality between cancer services Paul Huish of the NHS to hospital of May 2012 I was getting ready in Northern Ireland and the parking charges. for work when there was a knock rest of the UK. “Cancer patients at the door. It was the police. in Northern Ireland are Alcoholism is an illness She told me my 18-year old son waiting longer for treatment Paul Huish (F019) called for was dead. The days after were and being denied life-saving the law to recognise alcoholism just a blur. I wasn’t coping. I was drugs,” said Kay. “The cancer as an illness and not a lifestyle given anti-depressants but was strategy in Northern Ireland was choice. “You don’t choose to told I couldn’t have bereavement put in place ten years ago and is be an alcoholic, said Paul. “It counselling because my son no longer fit for purpose. Cancer creeps up on you without your hadn’t died in hospital. I could does not discriminate. Nor does knowledge and takes over your only get mental health support if it wait. At the end of every cancer life. 40 per cent of alcoholics I was suicidal. It took me nearly strategy is a family, a friend or develop mental health issues as four years to find a support a co-worker who just wants Marc Elliott a direct result of their alcoholism group, set up by a mum who the chance to live. Treatment and 50 per cent of mental had also lost a child. Six years on shouldn’t be a postcode lottery.” health sufferers turn to alcohol I still cry every day. I don’t want General secretary elect to self-medicate. Thousands other parents to suffer like I did.’ Paddy Lillis agreed. “Northern of people do not get access to All parents and siblings should Ireland is falling behind the rest the treatment they need and be offered free counselling when of the UK in cancer treatment,” deserve.” such a tragedy happens.” said Paddy. General secretary elect Paddy General secretary elect Paddy “Patients have Lillis responded. “Alcoholism Lillis said: “Regardless of the longer waiting times depending is a devastating illness and too age of the person who died on where they live and they many people dismiss it as a and whether or not they died in don’t have the same access lifestyle choice,” said Paddy. “For hospital bereavement centres to certain cancer drugs. The Kay Bond it to be treated as an illness and should be made available to people of Northern Ireland not as a lifestyle choice it needs everyone who has suffered a should be able to receive the to be recognised and covered by loss. Many people need support same treatment within the same ADM 2018 the Equality Act.” to cope with bereavement that’s timeframes as the rest of the UK.”

Housing regulations responsibility for this situation £675 compared to social housing incomes have made it so much Heather Neagle (K021) called by helping councils fit sprinklers where its £400. 63 per cent of harder to buy a house so, for tougher housing regulations. in tower blocks and by making tenants have been asked to move more and more people are “In 2017, 79 people died in a fire sure all homes are protected by their landlord. It wasn’t their forced into a private rental in Grenfell Tower. It wasn’t an by robust, health and safety choice. If a home is not secure or sector that lacks proper accident, Grenfell was a direct measures.” affordable then it’s not a home. regulation. Deregulation and consequence of deregulation We want a housing market that a housing shortage benefit the and austerity ” said Heather. Rent equality works for the many and not the unscrupulous landlords who rip “These cuts are compromising Paul Holland (E054) asked the few.” off and exploit tenants who are our fundamental rights to decent, executive council to lobby the General secretary elect Paddy desperate for somewhere to live. safe and affordable housing.” Government to create a fairer Lillis responded. “Home With no rent controls the rents in General secretary elect Paddy rent system across the UK. “This ownership in England is at a the private rent sector have gone Lillis replied: “The tragedy should be done by implementing 30-year low whilst the private up and up. Implementing private at Grenfell Tower is a terrible private renting regulations,” said rented sector has doubled in size renting regulations would deliver indictment of housing in the UK Paul. “Tenants need a legal right since 2014,” said Paddy. “Tighter a legal right to secure tenancies in the 21st century. We need to to a secure tenancy with fair rent. lending policies, the rising cost of with fair rents for private make sure the Government takes The median rent in the UK is living and a weak growth in real tenants.”

Network May/June 2018 17 ADM 2018 Labour for workers The Labour Brexit shadow secretary Keir Starmer answers Network’s questions on Brexit, universal credit, workers rights, the economy and what a Labour government can do for working people...

Q. Retail crime is on KS: Nobody voted to lose their KS: We have been very about immigration. What we the increase. Thefts job, to be poorer, or not to have concerned about executive pay have said is that it has to be a from shops can often the future they deserve. What and the inequality between fair system and that it has to be be a trigger for violence we are doing is resetting the those that are earning at the managed. It’s got to work for and abuse against objectives. The priority has got top and those at the bottom. It our communities so we need to shopworkers. Would to be jobs and the economy. has reached breaking point and talk to our communities about Labour support tougher The Prime Minister has different Labour is committed to reducing what they need. But it also has to sentences for those who priorities. She has said it is borders that gap. It’s not just about how work for the economy so that our assault shopworkers? and immigration. On top of this we limit what happens at the businesses can flourish. Most of we also need to make sure the top. It’s also about how we all it’s about tone and approach. KS: Yes, is the simple answer to benefits of the single market and drive up the pay and conditions What we must never slip into is that. An assault on a police officer the customs union are properly of everybody, wherever they a tone that suggests that anybody is treated very seriously. Assaults understood and hardwired into are within the business. That who has come here from another on anyone doing their job should any deal. gap needs to contract in both country is not welcome. They are also be taken extremely seriously. directions. our friends and neighbours so We need to make sure that those Q. Are workers’ rights the first thing we must always say working in retail get the protection under threat if we leave Q. Millions of workers is how much we welcome the they deserve. Workers should be the EU? are on short hour contribution they have made. free to do their jobs without being contracts even though verbally or physically attacked. KS: Workers’ rights are under they regularly work Q. There is still a belief threat from a Tory government. more. How will Labour amongst voters that Q. Universal credit That’s been the case for a very address this? the Conservatives will cause financial long time. What the EU did was are better with the hardship for our to ring fence key rights so that the KS: We need security of economy than Labour. members. What is Tories couldn’t get their hands on employment. It’s something What would you say in Labour doing to them. What we now need to do is we fought for years ago. It has response to this? mitigate the effects of to make sure that protection isn’t been eroded year-on-year as universal credit? lost as we go through the process people work in more fragmented KS: Look at the last eight years! of leaving the EU. That’s why we employment situations or on Look at what they have done to KS: Universal credit has been a are fighting so hard for workers’ more fragile contracts. We the economy. They have actually complete nightmare. It will bring rights to be maintained and not need stronger contracts with made things worse. We have about real injustice and that’s why be unhitched from Europe. We rights built in at an earlier stage, austerity, greater division and Labour has been voting against don’t want workers in the UK whether that’s unfair dismissal greater inequality. They’re losing the changes on every occasion. falling behind the standards that or all the other rights. It’s about the confidence of the business We will continue with this are evolving in Europe. giving people the dignity and community by the way they’re campaign and make sure people security they need at work. negotiating Brexit. So, this myth don’t lose out. Q. There is a huge that the Conservatives are strong gulf between the Q. Compared to the on the economy and Labour Q. Despite every impact pay of workers and Conservatives Labour isn’t needs to be turned on its assessment stating that the pay of CEOs. is seen as being ‘soft’ head. If you look at our manifesto Britain will be worse The Conservatives on immigration. How we’ve got a costed programme of off after Brexit we are backtracked on would you reassure investment that will strengthen the still heading towards putting employee voters who have economy. We just need a chance leaving the EU. How representatives on legitimate concerns? to put that into action. will Labour ensure company boards. working people don’t Would Labour curb KS: Lots of people talk to me Q. The NHS continues pay the price for Brexit? executive pay? and the Labour Party generally to be a top issue for

18 Network May/June 2018 ADM 2018

Labour for workers usdaw.org.uk/tv

voters. What will Labour do to protect the NHS?

KS: We’ve got to invest more in the NHS and we have to ensure that the people who work in the NHS are treated with dignity. The workforce there are stretched every day of the week. They need the resources and facilities they are entitled to. The last Labour government invested in the NHS and there were new hospitals. The NHS had a bright future which has now sadly been run down.

Q. What can a Labour government do to improve the lives of our members?

KS: A Labour government needs to make the case loud and clear that trade union membership is vitally important. We need to support that and make the case for collective bargaining. Parliament sets the minimum terms and then unions can bargain on top of that to improve the pay and conditions of everyone they represent.

Network May/June 2018 19 GDPR A REP’S GUIDE TO GDPR

After a two-year transition period What this means the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) came in to force for Usdaw activists in May 2018 and replaced the Data Usdaw activists will need to start thinking Protection Act 1998. about how they store information about The regulations govern the way their members. companies collect, process, store and dispose of personal data. This means n How secure is your computer? everyone who works on behalf of n Is it password protected? Usdaw, whether as a paid employee n Can you lock your filing cabinets? or as a rep/activist, is under a duty to n Do you leave paperwork about comply with the regulations. Failure to members on your desk or leave your After this you should shred the comply can lead to legal penalties and computer screen unlocked when you’re materials. reputational damage. away from it? If the matter is not resolved and needs to go to an employment tribunal then you Usdaw activists and personal data Example 1 - Branch membership or should store the materials securely i.e. As an Usdaw activist you will come contact lists password protected computer or a locked across some personal data relating to If you need a list of your branch members filing cabinet until you have passed them members. to arrange a branch meeting make sure on to Usdaw’s legal department. After this you have an up-to-date list from your you should shred any copies you have. This can include: local Usdaw office. Shred any old lists n Name, address, email address, and ensure the new list is stored securely Example 5 – Accident at work records, telephone numbers either on a password protected computer personal injury claims n Whether they pay their Usdaw (where you lock the screen when you are If a member has an accident at work, the contributions by check-off or direct away from it) or in a locked filing cabinet. employer and the health and safety rep debit should keep a copy of the accident record n Employment details such as where Example 2 – Membership lists and of any investigation. they work, pay, bonus, hours You may need a list of members in their All material around this should be stored worked, pension, education and specific workplaces for example, to do a securely either on a password protected training courses mapping exercise. Once you have drawn computer (where you lock the screen n Details relating to grievances or up a list make sure you store it securely when you are away from it) or in a locked disciplinaries, personal injury claims, either on a password protected computer filing cabinet. employment tribunals or other legal (where you lock the screen when you are You should keep this information until matters away from it) or in a locked filing cabinet. the matter is resolved satisfactorily. Shred the list when you have finished If the matter is not resolved the Consent with it. information may be needed for a personal Usdaw members give us their consent injury claim. to process their data when they sign Example 3 – Contacts In this case you should keep the the membership form F1A. This is In the course of your union work you will materials securely i.e. password protected because the membership form has build up a contact list. Make sure you computer or a locked filing cabinet until a Privacy Notice that sets out how store it securely either on a password you have passed them on to Usdaw’s the union will process and store their protected computer (where you lock the Legal Department. After this you should personal data and outlines their rights. screen when you are away from it) or in a shred any copies you have. locked filing cabinet. Further guidance for reps GDPR in a nutshell Example 4 – Disciplinary and Usdaw will be producing further You must store data on members grievance hearings, employment guidance for reps over the coming securely and for no longer than tribunal cases months. necessary. After this the data should All correspondence and notes should In the meantime, reps can access be destroyed. be stored securely either on a password an online guide to GDPR which goes into a more detail about the protected computer (where you lock the regulations themselves. The course Reps can access Usdaw’s guide to screen when you are away from it) or in a can be accessed at GDPR at: locked filing cabinet. https://usd.aw/gdpr https://usd.aw/gdpr If the matter is resolved you should keep If you have any queries please the materials securely for six months. contact your area organiser.

20 Network May/June 2018 RETIRED MEMBERS Retired members meet

RETIRED MEMBERS’ DELEGTION

The annual Retired problem in any one year and “The majority of Usdaw “There is a strong social Members’ Consultative 70 million working days are lost members are under pressure stigma attached to mental ill conference, now in its 29th each year due to mental ill health financially. They are working health which makes people year, took place in May in costing Britain £70-100 billion.” harder and longer than ever act negatively towards those Warrington. “Being alone is not the same as before,” said Jo. “For some, it’s with mental health problems. The theme of the conference being lonely. There is nothing out of choice. But for most it’s This means people with was mental health with a wrong with being on your own because they simply cannot mental health problems are particular focus on loneliness if you are comfortable with it. afford to retire. excluded from participating in and the impact of poverty on People usually describe being “Older people are more likely society and experience mental health. lonely for one of two reasons: than any other age group to go discrimination.” The conference was attended they simply don’t see or talk without the basics such as a The presentation also included by Usdaw’s pension’s officer to anyone very often, or even holiday (defined as being away a workshop that asked delegates Debra Blow and chaired by the though they are surrounded at least one week a year), the to explore the impact different president Amy Murphy. by people they don’t feel upkeep of decoration in the aspects of older people’s lives understood or cared for.” home or putting aside £10 a have on their mental health and Mind Nic outlined five steps to month to carry out a hobby or wellbeing; the role family, the Nic Lunt, the chief officer of wellbeing: give, keep learning, be leisure activity.” community and wider society Mind, gave a presentation on active, take notice and connect. “Research by Age UK found pay in promoting or undermining mental health and loneliness. that nearly three million older mental health and what older “Health is a state of complete Equalities people or one in four are having people need most to stay physical, mental and social Jo Bird and Ruth Cross from money problems, with hundreds mentally well. well-being and not merely the the equalities section at Usdaw of thousands unable to pay bills Both presentations generated absence of disease or infirmity,” gave a joint presentation on the or keep their homes warm. This a lively discussion with the panel said Nic. “One in four people impact of poverty on mental can take its toll on physical and holding a questions and answers will experience a mental health health. mental health,” said Ruth. session.

“I’ve attended this conference a number “As always, the Pensions team have done of times as I find it extremely interesting. a fantastic job as the conference was well I thought this year’s theme was organised and well-run with some great excellent. The speakers were fantastic speakers. I found it really useful and will be and the presentations were pitched using what I learned at the next federation at a level that was understandable. I get-together. It was good to catch up with old really enjoyed it and would thoroughly friends and meet new delegates. Unlike many recommend retired members to take the other unions Usdaw makes a real effort to opportunity to attend.” Helen Lengely engage with its retired members.” Geoff Page

Network May/June 2018 21 STAFF STAFF RETIREMENTS

Fiona Wilson Graham Robson Ellen Shaw

Fiona Wilson nice to do these activities when I want rather Ellen Shaw Fiona will be retiring at the end of June after than fitting them in around work. Once my Area organiser Ellen retired in June after five almost 19 years of service. Fiona worked in husband Brian retires we will then spend years’ service with Usdaw. the finance sector for 20 years before being more time travelling.” Ellen started out as a gilder in the Potteries appointed as Usdaw’s pensions officer in in Stoke-on-Trent when she was 15. Following 1999. In 2001 she took up the role of deputy Graham Robson the changes in the pottery industry head of administration and was promoted Graham retired in May after 43 years’ service. Ellen went to work for Tesco Longton extra. to the position of head of research and Graham started his career in the Manchester Ellen comes from a trade union economics in 2006. divisional office as an accounts clerk in 1974. background. Her dad worked in the pits “I’ve always been a trade unionist so He transferred to central office in 1979 to take and was a firm trade unionist who instilled this has been the perfect job for me,” said up the role of an audit supervisory clerk. He in her that she should always stick up for Fiona, 57. “It has been varied, challenging then progressed through the stages to become herself and other people. So, when a and exciting. I’ve had the opportunity to an audit officer in 1993 and was promoted to vacancy for a rep came up she put herself work on so many different projects from our senior audit officer in 2001. forward. excellent campaigns to strategic planning to “I virtually went straight from school to “Being elected as a rep opened doors for improving our bargaining support service working for Usdaw,” said Graham, 59. “Back me,” said Ellen, 60. “Securing the position of and working with the Labour Party on our then members contributions were posted area organiser at the age of 55 was absolutely political objectives. One of the highlights was manually using rather large ledgers! amazing. To go from someone who had no making yearly representations to the Low “In this role I was responsible for the qualifications to working for the union was a Pay Commission on behalf of 3 million low receipt of union contributions from over 200 dream come true. paid retail workers. I feel proud that I paid a companies within Usdaw and the auditing of “My favourite part of the job is when you get small part in getting increases to the national the 19 Usdaw offices. a good outcome, nothing can beat the feeling minimum wage which made a real difference “One of my proudest moments was the that you’ve helped someone. to our members. check-off re-authorisation exercise in 1998. “One of my proudest memories is when, “The thing I have enjoyed the most has This involved ensuring all union members re- as a rep, I was involved in a campaign to been working with and developing the staff signed to have union contributions deducted make the breast cancer drug Herceptin in my department. It’s been very rewarding from their wages. When dealing with available on the NHS. Back in 2006 many watching them grow, develop and take up hundreds and thousands of members this was women were refused the treatment for a new roles and opportunities. a mammoth task. It was a challenging time for number of reasons including which health “Working for Usdaw has been a fantastic both me and the union but we completed it trust they fell under. Our campaign was experience. It will be a wrench to leave. I’ve with minimal loss of members. featured in arena and helped raise awareness made some very good friends over the years “I have thoroughly enjoyed working for of the issue. We also raised £70,000 and set up and I will miss the people I have worked with Usdaw and will miss the colleagues I have a charity to help pay for women to receive the the most. been in contact with across the different drug privately. “I’ll be keeping busy once I retire. I’ve got Usdaw offices. “I have really enjoyed working at Usdaw a part-time job with a housing charitable “In my retirement I hope to keep up my and will miss all my colleagues. Once I retire trust and I’m looking forward to doing more fitness by still going to the gym. I’m looking I’m going to Las Vegas then on a cruise. campaigning for the Labour Party now that forward to spending more time with my wife Since I got the job I’ve not had much spare Macclesfield is offically a more winnable seat. and four grandchildren. I also want to visit time so I’m looking forward to relaxing “I’m also looking forward to not getting more places in Europe and will be focusing on and spending time with my daughters and up very early to fit in a run or swim! It’ll be trying to improve my baking skills.” grandchildren.”

22 Network May/June 2018 EQUALITIES Your menopause story The menopause is part of the the menopause or because their natural ageing process for women performance has dipped. In many cases and yet is still regarded as a taboo a few simple adjustments to working subject. All women will go through conditions would have solved the the menopause and for many problem such as more frequent toilet women their symptoms can cause breaks, shift changes, access to cold real problems at work. drinks and fresh air breaks. Several large-scale studies including Usdaw wants to find out more about most recently by the Wales TUC women’s experiences of being in work have found that women very often while going through the menopause experience a range of symptoms that so that we can identify what support make working life more difficult. These women in Usdaw want from their include heavy periods, hot flushes, employer. The union has launched a memory loss, increased anxiety and short survey which asks women to sleep disturbances. share their experiences. The survey has Over half of women responding already highlighted many examples to the Wales TUC survey said the of really good practice and the union menopause was treated as a joke will be sharing these with reps so that where they work. Women say that this more women can get the support they makes them feel embarrassed and need. All responses to the survey will be undermined. Humour can be a coping treated in strictest confidence and you mechanism but when it is used as a put don’t have to provide personal details. down or to embarrass women it is no You can find the survey on the Usdaw laughing matter. website or by contacting Usdaw members are also being [email protected] www.usdaw.org.uk/MenopauseSurvey disciplined for absence related to

TUC Black Workers’ conference Usdaw once again sent a full need for racism at work to be delegation to this year’s TUC seen not just as an equality issue Black Workers conference. but also as a health and safety The conference, now in its issue. 27th year, brings hundreds Maureen spoke about the of black trade union activists growing problem of customer together from across all abuse and pointed out that sectors and industries in the while all Usdaw members are UK to debate the particular vulnerable to abuse for black problems black and minority minority ethnic members the ethnic workers face at work abuse often has an additional and in society. It is the biggest element of racism. Racism has conference of its kind in Europe. wide reaching consequences for Let’s talk about mental health Usdaw’s motion to conference, black minority ethnic workers moved by Maureen Loxley from mental health and creates an Usdaw reps are is It’s Good to Talk. The Tesco in Gloucester and carried unsafe working environment for supporting increasing campaign pack includes all unanimously, focused on the everyone. numbers of members Usdaw’s mental health leaflets struggling with stress, and posters plus giveaway anxiety and depression at refreshment packs (tea, coffee work. and biscuits), pens, coasters, To help reps dealing with balloons and post it note pads these issues the union has branded with the campaign produced new workplace logo. campaign materials designed You can order your to help open up conversations campaign pack by calling us and break down the stigma on 0161 224 2804 or emailing surrounding mental health. equalitymatters@ The theme of the campaign usdaw.org.uk

Network May/June 2018 23 LIFELONG LEARNING Learning reps in action

Union learning reps from workplaces across the North West attended an annual divisional forum at Usdaw’s national training centre in Warrington in March. The reps, who work in the retail, manufacturing and distribution sectors for a variety of companies, were welcomed by divisional officer Mike Aylward who thanked them for their continued hard work offering members learning opportunities and raising the profile of the union. Reps were given the opportunity to feedback on Helens. “I was surprised that Trish Cooper the ULR forum you feel like you Usdaw's new bitesize Maths many of my colleagues were not Sainsbury’s ULR Trish has got are part of a family. You’re not course and the changing digital seazing this great opportunity to her hands full at her Sainsbury’s nervous, you’re made to feel world in the workplace. They gain accredited qualifications and store in Warrington where she is very welcome and it’s a very discussed accessing payslips found myself promoting lifelong also the in-store rep and health comfortable environment.” online and quick and easy ways learning without actually being and safety rep. to engage staff on upskilling in a rep. “When I joined Usdaw I didn’t Sue Burnett maths, IT and English. Reps also “When the opportunity arose realise that lifelong learning was It’s been quite a whirlwind for took part in a discussion and to become a ULR I jumped at such a big part of the union and rep Sue who signed up to be a workshop on apprenticeship the chance. I quickly became how involved I could get,” said ULR last August. delivery and supporting the onsite co-coordinator with a Trish who became a ULR in Since then she’s worked hard colleagues in the workplace. team of ULR’s covering all shifts. 2015. “I think it’s amazing how to bring learning opportunities The forum was delivered by “One of my proudest moments much is on offer for members to the staff at Morrisons abattoir North West lifelong learning was winning the North West ULR through learning and I’m proud in Colne. project workers Julia Baldwin organising award in 2016. to be a part of it. “We’ve just signed a learning and Jonathan Charnock. “Lifelong learning in our “I’ve been to the ULR seminars agreement with the union and workplace has gone from before and always find them very we’re really excited about the Kevin Callow strength to strength with many useful to assist me in my role. future,” said Sue. Kevin has been a member of colleagues signing up to do “I found all the information “There’s been lots of interest Usdaw for 20 years and became functional skills English, maths about apprenticeships very from the staff about learning in a learning rep in 2012. and ICT in our fully equipped interesting and worthwhile as it the workplace. Going to college “I signed up for an English learning centre. relates to what’s going on in my can be expensive and difficult course in my workplace “I find the ULR forums very workplace and the workshop to fit in if you work full-time, and found it to be a real eye informative and they allow me to provided some valuable practical being able to learn for free in opener,” said Kevin who works return to work with lots of ideas advice. your workplace makes things so at Sainsbury’s distribution in St to implement where I can.” “When you attend events like much easier, and it’s great for the staff who will feel comfortable learning with people they know. “We’re starting off with English and Maths and hopefully moving on to leisure courses. I’m hoping it will bring people together and give our workplace a sense of community. “The forum was a great opportunity to speak to other ULRs and get ideas for the future. It was a really upbeat and KEVIN CALLOW TRISH COOPER SUE BURNETT enjoyable day.”

24 Network May/June 2018 LIFELONG LEARNING Learning reps in action New agreement for Tesco

GENERAL SECRETARY ELECT PADDY LILLIS WITH USDAW MEMBERS AT TESCO CUSTOMER FULFILMENT CENTRE IN CROYDON

Usdaw has signed a new It will also safeguard paid release officials at the sites have worked and to improve their career learning agreement with for staff if they want to access hard over the past year to opportunities. Tesco that will bring those learning opportunities. establish learning centres and “Learning boosts employees’ enhanced learning General secretary elect Paddy support members who want to confidence, improves morale opportunities to seven Lillis signed the agreement return to learning. and gives employers a customer fulfilment centres alongside Tesco head of “The extra release will allow more motivated and skilled across the Eastern and operations for customer them to build on their success workforce.” Southern divisions. fulfilment centres Melissa Malik and continue to make a real Since 2003 more than 74,000 The agreement will ensure that on a visit to the Croydon site difference for our members.” members have returned to some union learning reps at the sites in March. They were joined “Usdaw’s Lifelong Learning sort of learning. in Aylesford, Crawley, Croydon, by Usdaw project workers, campaign aims to provide Usdaw has agreed partnerships Enfield, Erith, Fenny Lock and coordinators and learning reps members, many of whom to access learning with many Greenford will be entitled to from all seven sites. feel they missed out at school, major companies including eight hours paid release per “This is fantastic news for with the chance to get back to Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons, week to deliver lifelong learning everyone involved,” said Paddy. learning to help them both for Wincanton, Next, DHL, CRL, opportunities for their colleagues. “Our union learning reps and their own personal development McVities and Unilever. Union learning reps get together in Ireland Better Skills, Better Lives was the theme of this year’s Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) Union Learning Reps Conference in March. Over 80 learning reps from unions across Ireland travelled to Mossley Mill in Newtonabbey for the event including Usdaw project workers and learning reps from Asda, Tesco and Karro Foods. The conference was an opportunity for the activists to take part in workshops on education and listen to guest speakers and fellow reps about their learning journeys.

Network May/June 2018 25 RECRUITMENT & ORGANISING Putting members first

Mike Smith be challenging at times but that customer fulfilment centres in his workplaces. If I spot anything I Stand-down rep makes it all the more enjoyable. area representing around 5,000 always mention it to the reps or When Tesco customer fulfilment “I completed Academy1 staff. “The national forum meets management. centre Croydon opened its doors in 2011 and then Academy2 quarterly and works closely with “I think the key to being a in 2006, driver Mike signed up to the following year. Both were Tesco at the highest level,” said good rep is honesty. You should be a rep straight away. excellent preparation for stand- Mike. “I’m there to ensure the always be upfront with members He wanted to ensure that his down. I also get great support voice of my colleagues is heard and you should always challenge colleagues were treated fairly from my organiser and the local first-hand and considered when something if it’s not right or from the beginning. Since then office. the company makes national someone is being treated unfairly. his involvement with Usdaw has “Recently I’ve been visiting decisions. At the end of the day it’s about grown significantly and he’s now night shift staff with my Croydon “When I’m back at work in equality and we’re here to look taking time away from his day colleague Chhaya Patel who Croydon I’m part of a team of after everyone.” job to work as a stand-down rep is also on stand-down. There eight reps looking after 1,000 and raise the profile of the union doesn’t tend to be a big union members of staff. It’s a well across the Southern division. presence on nights so it’s good organised site and we’re very “I’ve been travelling to different to let members know they’re keen on health and safety. We workplaces and companies, not forgotten about. The staff have a good working relationship meeting members and reps, are quite surprised to see us at with management which is taking part in campaign days 3am but we always get a good crucial for making change. and trying to ensure everyone is response.” “Health and safety is aware of Usdaw and the benefits something I can’t help but of membership,” said Mike, 45, Health and safety consider while on stand-down. who is also a health and safety Mike is also Tesco national It’s been eye-opening to see and union learning rep. “It can forum rep and looks after all the the approach in different

“I think the key to being a good rep is honesty. You should always be upfront with members”

MIKE SMITH AT IKEA CROYDON

26 Network May/June 2018 “There are people, like myself, heading toward retirement age unaware of pension changes which could have adverse effects on their future”

PAT GIBBONS (LEFT) AT TESCO PRESCOT

added divisional committee future. and I’m hoping to take part in member to her portfolio. “We’ve already had two legal Respect Week in November. “I initially became health and plus campaigns in store but I “The thing I like most about safety rep and enjoyed it so much wanted to use this campaign to being a rep is solving minor that I put myself forward for make sure staff members know problems for members before in-store rep,” said Pat, 58, who that help and guidance about they escalate, sometimes it’s just has worked at Tesco for 14 years. pensions is available from the about giving some guidance and “I come from a long line of trade union. support. unionists and my husband is an “The pensions team do a “I’m a rep simply because I like official for unison. We always fantastic job at central office helping people. It can sometimes argue about who’s union is the and I always advise members to be a thankless, occasionally best, obviously I win.” contact them for advice. heart-breaking job but I wouldn’t “Our campaign day was a give it up for anything.” Pensions campaign great success. Lots of staff came Pat is keen to promote pension to speak to the team and took awareness and recently away the literature. We even Membership organised an in-store campaign managed to recruit a few new for week ending day. “It was only a few years members.” 2 June 2018 ago, at an ADM fringe meeting, that I discovered I would not Organising South Wales Pat Gibbons get state pension at the age of “As a rep I try to be as active as and Western ...... 49,942 Tesco Prescot 60,” said Pat. “And it wasn’t until time allows. I attend divisional Eastern ...... 63,216 Tesco customer assistant Pat the Pensions Conference last conference and federation Midlands ...... 57,312 has been an active Usdaw rep year that I learned about being schools. I’ve also been to North Eastern ...... 59,845 for over 10 years at her store in contracted out. ADM for the past six years and Scottish ...... 43,771 Prescot. She’s passionate about “There are many people, successfully delivered two Southern ...... 63,856 the union, politics and making like myself, heading toward propositions. North West ...... 92,943 sure her members are supported. retirement age, who are unaware “As part of the divisional Total ...... 430,885 In 2015 she took on the role of of pension changes which could committee I recently supported branch secretary and last year have adverse effects in their Parents and Carers Spotlight Day

Network May/June 2018 27 HEALTH AND SAFETY Q&A: Becoming a safety rep Usdaw health and safety officer Doug and to examine the causes of accidents Where the union is not recognised Russell answers your frequently asked at the workplace. the Health and Safety (Consultation with questions about becoming a health n To investigate complaints by any Employees) Regulations 1996 will apply. and safety rep... employee they represent. Your employer can choose to consult with n To make representations to the employer their employees directly as individuals, or Q. I’m thinking of becoming a safety on all matters affecting the health, safety through elected representatives (known as rep, what powers or influence am I or welfare at work of the employees at the ‘representatives of employee safety’ in the legally entitled to? workplace. Regulations), or a combination of the two. Safety reps have clear legal functions given n To carry out inspections in the workplace. to them by the Safety Representatives n To represent the employees in meetings Q. I want to get some training before and Safety Committee Regulations 1977 with visiting inspectors from the HSE or I volunteer to be a safety rep, is that (SRSC): other enforcing authority. possible? Or does the training come n To investigate potential hazards and n To receive information from inspectors. later? And who does it, the union or the dangerous occurrences at the workplace n To attend meetings of safety committees. company? Trade union safety reps are entitled to Safety representatives should be attend trade union training courses during consulted ‘in good time’ about changes work time. Once you become a rep, your The health and safety section is at work that may affect health and safety. area organiser should contact the Usdaw based in the legal department at ‘In good time’ means that the employer training officer to get you on an Usdaw central office. must allow enough time to tell the safety course. Usdaw runs a basic introductory representatives about what is proposed, course and a follow-on course (both are and for the safety representatives to consult usually five day courses). with their fellow workers and get their views. The TUC also provides safety rep training. Those views then need to be reported back Their stage 1 and stage 2 courses are to the managers before any final decision is usually 10 days over 10 weeks. Increasingly made or any action is taken. In emergencies TUC courses are also provided on-line for or urgent situations, however, action needs workers who might have difficulty travelling to be taken first. to a TUC education centre. The SRSC regulations also require Tony Whelan and Doug Russell employers to give safety reps reasonable Q. Our safety rep at work just agrees facilities and assistance. This includes time with everything the boss says, surely Health and safety officer during working hours to carry out their this can’t be right? Doug Russell functions as a rep and paid time to attend Good safety reps get all the information and [email protected] trade union training. facts about a particular problem then go 0161 249 2441 and discuss the situation with management. Q. There is no safety rep in my Although management have the ultimate Health and safety assistant workplace, is that illegal? responsibility to manage health and safety, Tony Whelan This will depend on whether or not you work the health and safety reps can assist them [email protected] for an employer who recognises the union. by trying to come up with solutions to 0161 249 2474 If the union has a recognition agreement problems. with the employer then the union has the The union expects its reps to develop General health and safety enquiries: legal right to appoint safety reps. The a good working relationship with their [email protected] number of reps in any one workplace is a managers, but this does not mean they matter for negotiation with the employer but should always agree. If you are unhappy The section has three main functions: once the number has been agreed it is up with the reps decision on any particular n To provide advice and assistance to the union to decide who the reps are. issue you should talk to them about it. to members, reps and officials on There may be a good reason for the line health and safety matters. they have taken. n To produce guidance on health If a rep consistently sides with and safety issues. management to the detriment of members n To promote the union’s policies on and their health and safety then they should health and safety with appropriate be challenged. Safety reps are elected from bodies such as the Health and the group of members they represent. If you Safety Executive and Government. think the rep is not up to the job then you need to think about who else might stand for election next time round.

28 Network May/June 2018 HEALTH AND SAFETY

New TUC health and safety survey

The new TUC survey of health and experiences are better reflected in safety reps is now online. public policy debates and the work of It is designed to provide the TUC and the HSE. individual unions with information about The TUC publishes the results and what health and safety reps do and uses them to campaign for better safety what their experiences and needs are. standards at work, including more This information is needed so that rights for health and safety reps. Survey the TUC and unions can do more closes 29 June 2018. to help reps and so their views and www.tuc.org.uk/national/health-andsafety-reps-survey-2018

SAFETY REP INTERVIEW CHRISTINA DISTEFANO Ageing drivers study

Alongside being one of three safety deal with these customers by asking The HSE has published a report on reps in her Tesco store in Sheffield, them to leave. Depending on their potential health and safety impacts on Christina is also on the national behaviour we can ban them from the an ageing workforce by focusing on young workers’ committee and has shop. If they refuse we are forced to call HGV drivers aged over fifty. just started a six-month secondment the police for assistance. Drivers’ work involves long, unsociable on Academy1. “My top tip for other health and safety hours, high physical and mental demands “I’ve been a health and safety rep since reps would be don’t struggle in silence, and long periods of sedentary work. This June 2015,” said Christina, 25. it’s always better to ask if you’re unsure can cause musculoskeletal disorders, “I decided to put myself forward for the about a policy or procedure. stress, tiredness and fatigue and issues role to gain more knowledge in the field “One of my fellow health and safety reps associated with being overweight. and to help members with workplace has been in the role for a long time, so if I Loneliness and isolation were also found issues. I enjoy being able to get a ever need help or advice I go to her.” to be a problem. positive outcome and make work a safer The HSE study highlights steps place. employers can take to improve workers’ “As health and safety reps we are health including: management of working required to identify any issues in the store hours and physical tasks; appreciating and inform management accordingly. individuals experience ageing in very We’re also responsible for carrying different ways; supporting the health of out security audits, health and safety older workers; recognising that older inspections and alerting staff about workers may fear losing their jobs if they health and safety procedures. admit to experiencing difficulties with their “Good health and safety is an ongoing work. concern so we’re always keeping an eye HSE’s core message is the need for out for potential risks. employers to create a workplace climate “One concern for staff members in our which promotes good health and well- workplace is intoxicated and aggressive being through suitable control measures. customers who can pose a risk to safety. See a copy of the report go to: We have a strict no tolerance policy and www.hse.gov.uk and search rr1104

HSE warns against off-the-shelf manual handling training

Off-the-shelf manual handling training help address their needs. with training; start with re-organising and should become a thing of the past, An HSE spokesperson said: “Our redesigning your working practices. If you according to new advice released by research shows that simplistic training do need staff training then this needs to be the HSE. involving bending your knees to lift a customised and professionally delivered. The web-based advice aims to help cardboard box is just a waste of time Any such training should be based on employers to decide what type of help and money, it just doesn’t make any observations of current working practices, they need to tackle the Musculoskeletal difference. The overall aim is to avoid and and should be informed by the views and Disorders (MSD) risks in their workplace. reduce manual handling, and that’s where experience of the workforce.” It illustrates different approaches with employers should start if their workforce See the HSE MSD advice at: examples and identifies who may be able to faces manual handling risks. Don’t start www.hse.gov.uk/msd

Network May/June 2018 29 PICTURES Email your letters and photos to the editor: [email protected] Your Letters & Pictures

PICTURED Clockwise from left: Midlands Divisional Political Committee campaigning for the May 2018 local elections in Chemsley Wood; Members at the first Grampian Pride; Campaigning outside Lidl DC Wednesbury; Plymouth area organiser Suzie Green presents divisional awards to Adrian Charles for health and safety; Sandie Shelton for Individual recruitment and to activists at Sainsbury’s Marsh Mills for team recruitment and organising.

The Organising Academy

From Scotland far and wide we come to do our best To see if we are successful to pass the Usdaw test With nerves we sit and try to get to know each other By the end of the two days a connection like Sister and Brother SOUTHERN DIVISION TAKE THE CAMPAIGN TO ALDI STORES

Trying to recruit an assessor and getting them to sign up Youth Committee raise over £1,200 The odd wee biscuit or coffee drank in an Usdaw cup Start off twenty two and then we end off with ten We want to say a massive Disco. There was also a After about a week you will probably find out then thank you to everyone for their Young Workers’ raffle, with generosity and help with the prizes generously donated by What a spread for lunch sandwiches, pies and cakes charity work undertaken by various companies and Usdaw When the food is good a big difference it makes the National Young Workers’ branches. Having a laugh with people who all work in different shops Committee and volunteers at We are really grateful When you get to your interview then that’s when the fun stops ADM 2018. to everyone who donated This year’s chosen charity and bought raffle tickets, So good luck everyone and I hope that you were a pick was Young Minds, an and we are proud to have Now it is all over hope you don’t feel so sick organisation that campaigns been involved in supporting But if you are not please now don’t shed a tear for mental health support vulnerable children and young Come back to the organising academy have a go next year for young people. A total people across the UK. of £1,230.46 was raised by Poem by John Creighton, holding collections on the Gareth Edwards (K085), G036 West of Scotland Co-op Young Workers’ stall at ADM Eileen Allardyce (G012) and and at the Young Workers’ Hannah Free (C037)

30 Network May/June 2018 0 Write to: Network Editor, Usdaw, 188 Wilmslow Road, Manchester M14 6LJ PICTURES

A dedicated space to share your news, views and achievements. Let us know what you have been up to and you could win £50! Please send letters/emails and photos to either of the Your Letters & Pictures addresses given above. We reserve the right to edit all letters.

PICTURED Clockwise from left: International Womens’ Day at Tesco Extra Spytty; Phil Wilson MP campaigning with Usdaw at Lidl Distribution in Newton Aycliffe; South Wales and Western Divisional Equalites Forum organise a donation of hygiene and sanitary products for the homeless in Swansea; Stand up to Racism rally in Cardiff; North West Divisional Equalities Forum supporting the ‘It’s Time to Talk’ campaign with general secretary John Hannett and general secretary elect Paddy Lillis; Boots Industrial Nottingham hold a pensions awareness day.

Network May/June 2018 31 TESCO EXTRA LICHFIELD Midlands division SEE MORE SPOTLIGHT DAY PICTURES AT WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK/GALLERY

MORRISONS THE GYLE, EDINBURGH TESCO EXTRA WATFORD Scottish division Eastern division

TESCO EXTRA CIRENCESTER READING TOWN CENTRE South Wales and Western division Southern division

TESCO GOOLE North Eastern division WARRINGTON TOWN CENTRE North West division