NETWORK The bimonthly magazine for Usdaw activists | www.usdaw.org.uk | November/December 2011

EXPERT RECRUITERS Academy organisers and reps have made a huge impact on membership this year

n Respect week n Youth weekend n Lifelong learning The annual Young activists Giving Respect For met up for their members the Shopworkers annual get- chance to Week made a together for two improve their big impression days of debate skills is very again this year and discussion popular page 18 page 8 page 14 GENERAL NETWORK | WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK SECRETARY Fighting back General secretary John Hannett’s comment

s we approach the closure of 2011 we are all aware of the continuing difficulties and challenges we will face in 2012. Unemployment is A now at its highest since the early 1990s, youth unemployment is more than one million and threatening to consign a whole generation to years of misery and hopelessness. The Coalition’s view is that the private sector will be the growth area for employment and of course I hope this is the case but at this point in time given that the economy is extremely sluggish with low growth forecast, it is concerning that many people will face long periods of unemployment. Of course, we are all aware from the news programmes of what is happening in the Eurozone and many workers in many countries are facing similar difficulties. We need the UK Government to demonstrate economic competence in tackling the deficit, but also a Government which has an empathy with hard working families, and does not punish them with severe cuts to their standard of living, for example, by increasing VAT to 20 per cent. Our members are being hammered by this and the huge rises in fuel and other household bills. To counteract this we are looking to reinvigorate our political campaigning. A stronger political voice has never been more important, but to do that we have to engage with our reps and members even more than we currently do. Sometimes only a political solution can deliver for our members – see page 24.

Success stories Despite facing massive legal hurdles we won £1.5m for workers made redundant from Ethel Austin although many staff did lose out because of a ❞ legal loophole – one which hopefully we can challenge in the future. Our Academies have also completed a very successful year as our growing A stronger membership figures prove. Congratulations to everyone involved. political voice has The challenges to come never been more Another tough and challenging year lies ahead, but we enter it a growing, important, but to well-organised and confident union. I say that because I know we have a do that we have to wealth of talent in our ranks. People like you who believe in fairness, justice engage with our and equality not for the few but for the many. I want to thank all of our reps reps and and activists for their efforts this year, which has ensured our members have had a first-class service and are fully supported in times of need. We will face members even the challenges of 2012 head on and we won’t shrink in doing our best for our more than we members. Finally, let me send you and your families best wishes for a happy currently do Christmas and a prosperous New Year. ❞ USDAW

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02 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK | NETWORK NOV/DEC CONTENTS

Contents REPS GET RESULTS DESPITE RECESSION

The union’s membership has continued to grow despite one of the longest economic downturns since the 1930s. Network looks at how activists and Academy organisers are spreading the word in shops and warehouses across the UK. 20-23.

■■■ 04 In the news ■■■ 18 Respect Week 2011 in pictures

The recession continues to wreak havoc on the high street with the Activists were out in force to promote this year’s Freedom From Arcadia group the latest firm to announce future store closures, but Fear Respect Week which campaigned against police cuts and there has been good news for young Co-op retail workers. reminded customers to Keep their Cool at Christmas.

■■■ 08 National youth weekend ■■■ 24 Political campaign

Young activists gathered at the national training centre in Warrington Usdaw is looking to increase its political profile locally and nationally for their annual get-together. with the launch of a network of dedicated activists early next year.

■■■ 10 Summer school 2 ■■■ 26 Black members’ weekend

Experienced reps were at Wortley Hall in Sheffield for the popular This annual event brings together black and Asian activists who six-day residential training course – often a launch-pad for reps to might otherwise not get the chance to have their voices heard. The increase their involvement in Usdaw. weekend also encourages activists to get more involved.

■■■ 14 Lifelong learning case studies

Union learning reps are delivering a vast array of learning opportunities for members across the UK helping them to improve Regulars their employment skills and build their confidence .

Member services ■■■ 16 Retail Trades Conference 2011 12 Find out if Usdaw can save you money 15 Staff news Six of the best take up their new organiser’s role The union’s second biggest conference was the launch pad for the Health and safety new campaign Safe Journeys to Work and the news that Usdaw will 28 All the latest issues in focus launch an investigation into why some reps leave the union. 30 Letters What’s happening in your division

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 | 03 NEWS NETWORK | WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK

IN BRIEF Recession to cull ■ Unemployment soars to 17 year high UK unemployment rose by high street stores 129,000 in the three months to September to 2.62 million, as youth MORE RETAIL JOBS AT RISK unemployment also rose above a million. Arcadia, one of the biggest The jobless total for 16 to operators on the high street, 24-year-olds hit a record reported a 38 per cent fall in high of 1.02 million in the annual profits to £133m and quarter. says it expects to close up to The Office for National 260 stores in the next few Statistics said the years. unemployment rate Arcadia boss Sir Philip Green increased to 8.3 per cent. said the closures would come The number of people out as store leases came up for of work and claiming renewal. Jobseeker's Allowance The group, which owns Under threat . . . one of the brands that make up the Arcadia portfolio rose by 5,300 to 1.6 million Topshop, Topman, Miss three years. And I think on our important than ever.” He said in October. Selfridge, BhS, Dorothy latest summary we will close the economic climate had The unemployment rate of Perkins, Wallis, Burtons and more than half of those on heightened people’s value of 8.3 per cent is the highest Evans, said it expected heavy lease expiry. So I would say, I money: “I do believe everybody since 1996 and the total discounts on the high street would expect us to close 250, is more financially aware than number of unemployed this Christmas. 260. they've ever been in their life.” people the highest since It also reported same-store He claimed the warm He added that the firm had 1994. UK sales down by 1.8 per cent. weather had made trading decided not to pass on certain Total sales at its 3,100 outlets difficult for many retailers: “It’s higher business costs and this ■ Pay settlement for worldwide were down by 3.4 been the hottest October and had squeezed its profit margin Morrisons Sata per cent and sales have November in history. Nobody by 1.8 percentage points, worsened, falling 4.4 per cent can deal with that. Winter costing it £52.4m. Members covered by the since the start of the new goods are tough. The billionaire’s Arcadia Morrisons Sata agreement financial year. “Trading conditions remain group is one of the biggest have overwhelmingly Sir Philip Green said: “We extremely challenging, with private employers in Britain, accepted a 2.5 per cent pay have around 450 or 460 stores style, quality and value at the with over 44,000 staff in its increase from October. where leases expire in the next top of our agenda and more 2,500 UK stores. This follows on from the pay award negotiated in April and now moves the annual pay review to October each year. Reps queue up for new course Usdaw’s latest Home Study ■ Doctors call for Course, ‘Vulnerable Workers’ smoking in cars ban has proved to be quite popular, All smoking in cars should so popular that there is a be banned across the UK to backlog of answer books protect people from waiting to be marked. second-hand smoke, More than 450 of you are still doctors say. waiting for your certificate but The British Medical Usdaw is doing its very best to Association called for the get them out to you soon. extension of the current ban The union has received lots on smoking in public places of positive feedback about this after reviewing evidence of course and many of you have department (0161 224 2804) new Agency Workers’ the dangers. found it interesting and or register online at: Regulations too complex to It highlighted research informative. www.fair-ground.org. take in, this 10 minute video showing the levels of toxins If you would like to learn uk/site/home-study and short quiz will give you an in a car can be up to 23 more about vulnerable If you can’t find the time but audiovisual overview and help times higher than in a workers, and get a still want to learn, why not try you test your knowledge. Visit: smoky bar. qualification, why not request a one of the first online learning www.fair-ground.org. copy from the education modules. If you are finding the uk/site/learning-on-line

04 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK | NETWORK NEWS JOY AND ANGER AFTER BIG COMPENSATION WIN

SOME STAFF STILL LOSE OUT Union elections 2012 Usdaw has won compensation worth up to £1.5 million for over The election process is underway 14 November 2011. Ballot papers 500 former employees of Ethel to elect the union’s president and and election addresses will be executive council for the next sent to all individual members on Austin who were made three years. Monday 23 January 2012. The redundant by administrators in The president chairs the ballot will close on Friday 17 2010. Annual Delegate Meeting and February. The Electoral Reform Ethel Austin went into other conferences as well as Services (The Election Centre, 33 administration on 8 February General secretary John presiding at the monthly executive Clarendon Road, London, N8 2010 and Usdaw made a claim Hannett said: “While the award council meetings. 0NW) will act as the independent on behalf of its members for a can never fully compensate for The executive council is drawn scrutineer. protective award after staff losing their jobs, I’m sure our from each of the seven divisions Elections will also be held for administrators MCR failed to members will welcome the and is made up of two lay divisional councils and for consult with the union before money and appreciate the effort members per division with the delegations to other national exception of the North West, conferences. Voting papers will making 1,700 staff redundant. Usdaw has made to secure this which has three seats. The be sent out to branches on The employment tribunal in compensation for them. Cases executive council’s role is to Monday 23 January 2012 and Liverpool found MCR had failed like these really demonstrate the oversee the business of the union should be returned by noon on in their legal obligations to value of Usdaw. in conjunction with the general 5 March 2012. consult with Usdaw and “However, I’m bitterly secretary and other central ■ If you have changed your awarded its members disappointed the tribunal limited officials. address recently please inform compensation of eight weeks the scope of the award. The fact Nomination papers were sent the records section at central pay, capped at £380 a week, the that many of our members won’t to branches in early October with office or call 0845 6060640 maximum payable in these be compensated just because the closing date at noon Monday before 15 December 2011. circumstances. their store had less than 20 staff The compensation is limited to is plainly wrong and shows the those employees made gaping loophole and injustice of redundant from Ethel Austin’s the current legislation. former head office and “Usdaw believes that the UK’s distribution centre in Knowsley current interpretation of the law is pleased to support Usdaw and the company’s store in on collective redundancies is Edgware London. In a judgment both unfair and possibly a breach We promise to give you individual support, care and reassurance the union may appeal, the of the European Directive which when it matters most. Our caring staff are here to listen and advise tribunal decided that MCR was seeks to protect workers in large you, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. not obliged to consult about scale redundancy situations. We Usdaw members and their immediate families are entitled to… workplaces where less than 20 are taking further expert legal - £25 discount on our funeral Pre-Payment Plans redundancies were being made, advice and if we can appeal - 10% discount on professional services fees on funeral arrangements thus ruling out all but one of against the judgment we will do the186 Ethel Austin stores that so.” More at: were closed. www.usdaw.org.uk/news For more information,contact your local The Co-operative Funeralcare (Quote reference – MKT/11/006) CHECK YOUR ENERGY COSTS Or visit our website at www.co-operativefuneralcare.co.uk Helping You To Cope With energy suppliers in the UK and Tough Times. The cost of fuel potentially save £227 or more. and everyday shopping seems Indeed some members of to increase every week. This Usdaw have saved £300 or 10% discount applies to funeral director professional services fees only (as detailed on price list and estimate makes it more more per year by form provided at the time of arranging a funeral) and important than using this excludes discounts on supplementary services, coffin/ casket selection, additional services and payments made ever to budget comparison on your behalf (e.g. clergy, doctors fees, crematorium/burial charges). The funeral plan offer applies to new cremation and control service. So try it! and burial plans purchased through a Co-operative household You could save Funeralcare home. The offer does not apply to funeral plans paid for by the fixed monthly payment option. expenses. Fortunately Usdaw yourself some money! 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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 | 05 NEWS NETWORK | WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK IN BRIEF Boardroom pay – ■ Iceland chain on big retailers’ radar Morrisons and Asda, as well ‘a deep malaise’ as private equity firms, are queuing up to buy frozen TOP BOSSES’ PAY ROCKETS executive and the company business and it is deeply food retailer Iceland as its median. corrosive to our economy. owner, the Icelandic bank The high salaries of UK The High Pay Commission “When pay for senior Landsbanki, seeks to executives are ‘corrosive’ to was set up with backing from executives is set behind closed offload it. The chain the economy, an influential the Joseph Rowntree doors, does not reflect employs around 22,000 pressure group has argued. Charitable Trust, to investigate company success and is staff at its 700 stores. The High Pay Commission – boardroom pay. fuelling massive inequality, it set up by pressure group Its year-long inquiry found represents a deep malaise at ■ Further evidence of Compass – says the disparity that the pay of top executives the very top of our society. high street gloom between what top executives at a number of FTSE firms had “The British people believe in High street fashion chain and average workers earn has risen by more than 4,000 per fairness and, at a time of Primark has posted its first been building for 30 years. cent on average in the last 30 unparalleled austerity, one tiny fall in profits for more than a Its study lists a 12-point plan years. Although the figures section of society – the top 0.1 decade as the economic to stop ‘high pay creating have been disputed by some per cent – continues to enjoy gloom envelops even the inequalities last seen in the companies. huge annual increases in pay discounters. Victorian era’. High Pay Commission awards. Everyone, including The company, owned by These include forcing chairwoman Deborah the main political parties, Associated British Foods companies to publish a pay Hargreaves said: “There’s a recognises there is a need to said operating profits fell by ratio between the highest paid crisis at the top of British tackle top pay.” eight per cent to £309m.

■ Mothercare stores National meeting for Hermes activists struggle in downturn KEEPING EVERYONE IN THE LOOP Babycare retailer Mothercare has posted a Activists of parcel carrier Hermes met pre-tax loss of £81.4 million up at the national training centre for compared to a pre-tax profit their quarterly meeting with the of 0.3 million last year. The national officer David Johnson and retailer said the loss members of the joint national illustrated the extent of the committee. “These meetings allow us challenges facing its UK to bring reps from across the UK to operations in a weak discuss issues within the business economic and consumer affecting members and help us to environment. keep on top of any emerging issues,” Total UK sales fell 4.3 per said David Johnson. “It’s a tough cent while like-for-like UK sector to be in at present but our reps sales fell 7 per cent in the six are doing a great job.” Hermes reps outside the national training centre in Warrington months to 8 October as customers reduced their spending on higher value items. Training officer John Goode Pay deals trail way ■ Former Leeds-based North instrumental in developing awareness of the disease by behind inflation Eastern divisional training officer hundreds of reps during the agreeing to feature in Arena Earnings rose at far below John Goode died in November, he difficult Thatcher years. in later years. the level of inflation in the was 72. A life-long trade unionist he General secretary John John was went to Ruskin College and then Hannett paid this tribute: year to April, although the appointed East Anglia University in the early “John was a very popular pay gap between men and in 1978 ’70s. Prior to his appointment he man in the division and his women narrowed slightly, and retired worked as a teacher in Norfolk. commitment and dedication official statistics show. 16 years After his retirement he moved to to the cause always shone There was no change in later on Cornwall where he lived with his through. median average gross health partner Sadie. “Our deepest weekly earnings for all UK grounds. He was diagnosed with condolences go to his family workers in April 2011 He was prostate cancer in 1997 and and friends at this very sad compared with 2010. helped to highlight Usdaw’s time.”

06 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK | NETWORK NEWS GOOD NEWS FOR IN BRIEF ■ 2012 Forthcoming events for your diary CO-OP WORKERS January

from 1 October 2011. rate of the National Minimum 14 January YOUNG MEMBERS’ VICTORY General secretary John Wage to be paid to every National Organising Awards Usdaw has negotiated a huge Hannett said: “This is great worker aged 16 and over.” 28 per cent pay rise for around news for our young Co-op www.usdaw.org.uk/news 23–29 January 1,000 young workers members and a really positive Membership Week employed by retail step forward for retail Co- Co-operative Societies. operative Societies. Usdaw February As part of this year’s pay members of all ages have been deal, the Co-operative pressing for equality for young 11–12 February Employers Association has workers for a number of years National Political agreed to Usdaw’s and I’m extremely pleased we Conference have achieved it.” longstanding claim for the April abolition of youth rates of pay “Usdaw has one of the which means all 16 and 17 year largest youth memberships of 22–25 April olds will now receive a any trade union and one of our Annual Delegate Meeting minimum adult rate of £6.25 an key industrial and political aims hour. is the abolition of youth rates of June The increase is part of an pay. Our success at the Co-op overall pay settlement of 2.5 follows the abolition of youth 02–03 June North West divisional per cent agreed by the union’s rates of pay at Tesco which we conference members at retail Co-operative achieved last year and we Societies and was effective continue to press for the adult 18–24 June Membership Week Branching out for more education September Active reps who have recently been elected 01–08 September as branch officials met up at the national First Series Summer training centre in Warrington for the tailor- School made five-day residential course. 10–13 September Eleven lay officials made up the TUC Conference November intake for an in-depth look at how union branches operate and how they 15–22 September fit in locally, divisonally and nationally with Second Series Summer Usdaw’s structure. School Senior officials and representatives from central office departments also provide October information on how the union supports its 30 September – members and reps. 04 October More at: www.usdaw.org.uk/training The national training centre at Warrington hosts the popular Labour Party Annual branch officer’s course Conference 13–14 October Retail Trades Conference ClickClick Connect Connect WinWin November Sign up to our email updates 03–04 November and you could win National Youth Weekend £100 iin Argos Vouchers courtesy of Consumer Credit December Counselling Service 01–02 December Win! North West Divisional Conference www.usdaw.org.uk/emailupdates More information at: www.usdaw.org.uk/events Sponsored by CCCS. Tel 0800 980 8271 www.cccs.co.uk/usdaw Closing date 6 January 2012. Terms apply. WEB NWK 1111

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 | 07 YOUNG NETWORK | WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK & ACTIVE YOUNG ACTIVISTS MAKE THEIR MARK upporting young reps, delegates also considered what getting more young they felt was important to S workers involved in young people in the workplace Usdaw and having a and would use these ideas good time were top of the when recruiting. The groups agenda at the 2011 national agreed that young workers youth weekend in November. want protection, support, Twenty-eight activists aged advice, solutions, a voice, 27 and under came from across knowledge and the divisions to meet at the understanding, representation national training centre in and someone to talk to. Warrington for a weekend to However, it wasn’t all heads exchange ideas and socialise down and hard work during with like-minded reps in a the weekend. The activists also relaxed and informal held their very own ‘Youth’s environment. Got Talent’ competition where For first timers it was also a the delegates, in groups of chance to make new friends, union movement, arranging four, produced and performed network, and learn more about more youth get-togethers, membership. mock television adverts to how the union works. organising more support for The weekend involved show young workers why they The weekend was opened by the divisional youth workshops and the reps in need to be in the union and deputy general secretary committees and developing their divisions were asked to encouraging them to join. Paddy Lillis and president Jeff more youth publications. discuss and deliver ideas about Once the votes were counted Broome. Paddy gave delegates General secretary John creating a young reps the winning team the opportunity to speak up, Hannett invited delegates to e-bulletin that would support were crowned offer opinions and ask share their experiences of and encourage young champions and questions. He was also keen to being young reps. The members and reps. The awarded Usdaw- hear how the union could delegates spoke to John about reps came up with a themed prizes. improve its processes to needing more young and variety of ideas for articles support young reps and how active reps in their divisions to including case studies, the union could focus on help strengthen the national interviews, photo galleries, recruiting more young and divisional committees so divisional reports, workers. that they in turn can support employment law and The reps’ suggestions young members and competitions. included; raising Usdaw’s reps and increase The profile within the trade overall

08 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK | NETWORK YOUNG & ACTIVE

In conversation with young reps . . .

Damien Wiltshire, 25, works for I’d definitely come back, I’ve “I think seeing John and Get Involved! Morrisons at Stratford in the had a great time. It was nice to Paddy here as well shows that If you’re under 27 and need Eastern division. He’s been a see John and Paddy here too young reps are valued by the advice and support, or you want rep for 18 months. He also and hear them speak to a union too.” to get more involved then recently became a member of smaller group as opposed to a contact your divisional youth the national youth committee. large group such as at ADM. Ali Abbas, 24, works for Tesco committee co-ordinator: “I became a rep because I like “It was also very useful to at Oldham in the North West South Wales & Western helping people enjoy work,” he have the chance to ask them Division. He has been a rep for Milan Pavlik said. “I think an online booklet questions.” two years. Bristol 0117 691 6061 would be a good tool for “We needed someone to raise [email protected] recruiting young workers to the Kayleigh Soper, 25, from the their voice and I realised that I Eastern union, listing all the benefits of North Eastern division, works could speak up and represent Adam Skwierawski being a member of Usdaw with at Tesco, Humberside and has others and so I became a rep.” Bury St Edmunds specific sections for young been an activist for 30 months. He believes recruiting more 01284 775700 [email protected] workers. “My family are big trade young members lies with the “The youth weekend has unionists so that’s how I got young reps. “We need the Midlands been great. I’ve had the chance involved,” she said. “I love younger generation of union Jan Hind Kegworth 02476 741 232 to meet lots of interesting being a rep, especially the reps to talk to the youth,” he [email protected] people and friends I can go to if satisfaction of helping people said. “Many don’t know Usdaw I need advice in my rep’s role. and knowing that you’re there is there or what is on offer, we North Eastern Gary Gibson I’ll recommend this weekend to if people need you.” need to publicise it more.” Leeds 0113 232 1320 all the young reps. I’m Kayleigh has been to the This year was Ali’s first time [email protected] definitely looking forward to youth weekend twice. “I think at the youth weekend. “It has Scottish meeting up with everyone it is very important for young been really fantastic. The Craig Smith again.” reps. It’s important people get training has been easy-to- Glasgow 0141 427 65611 involved, like John Hannett follow and everything has been [email protected] Lesley Marsden, 22, from the said, ‘if you don’t have young really interesting,” he said. “I Southern Southern division works for the members then you end up with was expecting it to be dull, but I Danny Knowles Co-operative in Brighton. She’s an ageing union’” she said. was wrong.” Andover 01264 321460 been a rep for more than three “I always go back home after [email protected] years. the weekend and recommend it To hear more from the North West “I became a rep because I to people. It’s well organised delegates and find out about Jo-Anne Welbourne love learning new things and and useful for finding out more the youth weekend visit: Warrington 01925 578050 helping people,” she said. information about the union [email protected]  www.usdaw.org.uk/youth Lesley thinks that young reps and a good place to meet new hold the key to recruiting friends. young workers. “I believe Usdaw can recruit more young Pictured (l-r) Damien ~ Wiltshire, Kayleigh workers by using their young Soper, Lesley reps. We have more to say to Marsden, and Ali It’s important young workers because we’re Abbas young people get on their level. I think we also involved. If you don’t need to raise the union’s profile so young workers are have young members more aware that the union then you end up with exists. an ageing union “It’s my first time at the national youth weekend and ~

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 | 09 EDUCATION NETWORK | WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK & TRAINING EXPERIENCED REPS TA Usdaw’s Summer Schools have been the springboard for many reps to increase their involvement making the most of the excellent training opportunities, superb facilties and the chance to networ

ctive reps from Asif Chadat across the union’s Sata rep Asif Chadat from Littlewoods seven divisions Shop Direct in Bolton soon overcame his A descended on nerves to learn more about women and Wortley Hall near organising. “This course covered Sheffield for second summer everything about equal opportunities school, a residential week of in- including maternity rights and equal depth training. pay,” said the branch secretary who has Reps could choose from Politics, been a rep for two years. Women and Organising, or “The highlight for me was doing the Organising in the workplace and street campaign where we asked with places open to activists who members of the public about equal pay had been to first summer school as part of our survey. That was really or the branch officer’s course, enjoyable. Summer school is hard work places were in great demand. but I found it very rewarding.” Network dropped in on one of Asif Chadat Andy Kelly the busy days to find out how Andy Kelly travelled all the way from the reps had coped with such a his Tesco store in Stornaway on the Isle demanding schedule. of Lewis to attend his second summer school in two years. “I know from my  www.usdaw.org.uk/training work on the local trades council that many other unions don’t offer this type of in-depth residential course, so I feel very lucky to be here,” he said. “You It’s opened my eyes to have a great mix of people from across ❝ all sorts of things and the UK from different occupations and so you have a wealth of expertise in the given me plenty of room. It’s easy to build up a really ideas to take back to useful network of contacts. You’re my store learning something new every day. It’s Andy Kelly hard work but there’s so much to get out Lynda Mitchell ❞

10 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK | NETWORK EDUCATION & TRAINING EXPERIENCED REPS TAKE THE NEXT STEP Usdaw’s Summer Schools have been the springboard for many reps to increase their involvement in the union and this year’s Second Series Summer School was no exception with activists making the most of the excellent training opportunities, superb facilties and the chance to network and meet up with old and new friends from previous courses, Network dropped in too

of it. The tutors are excellent and make it was a great experience, I learnt so Lynda Mitchell things very easy to understand. I’ve much. It really does help your confidence made a network of friends for life and to grow. I’d certainly recommend it.” that’s what the union is all about.” Des Murphy “A great bunch of people who all had Factory rep Des Murphy from United different experiences and ideas to share Biscuits in Manchester immersed himself so even in our time out of class we in the politics course for the week and discussed issues that came up during the believes the week is a must for all reps. day. Wortley Hall is such an inspiring “Politics is tied up with everything we do place you cannot fail to be impressed by as trade unionists and individuals,” he its beauty and tranquility.” said. “It affects all of us just about all of Lynda Mitchell the time and this week has underlined Checkout worker Lynda Mitchell from that for me and the rest of the group who Morrisons in Yeovil, Somerset, are all Labour Party members. We looked particularly enjoyed the team-work at the structure of government, local Jade Sheldon aspect of the week. “You’re never left on councils and the link with the union. It your own and everyone helps each was all very interesting.” other,” she said. “There’s a lot of hard Chris McDermott work and a great deal to take in but it’s Tesco rep Chris McDermott from fascinating and the teaching is excellent. Liverpool chose the women and It’s opened my eyes to all sorts of things organising course because most of his and given me plenty of ideas to take back members are female. “It certainly to my store. delivered for me,” said the 24 year-old. “I thoroughly enjoyed the week and will “We looked at pensions, health and look at applying for the Academy next safety and the added pressures on year.” women at work in particular their caring Jade Sheldon responsibilities. Young rep Jade Sheldon went to the first “You always learn as much from each summer school last year and was keen to other as you do on the course because of Vivian Anderson repeat the exercise on summer school the vast experiences among the other two. “I was in the women and organisng reps so that is really helpful. We did an group and it was brilliant, very Usdaw’s Got Talent presentation, which informative,” said the 24 year-old was aimed at promoting the union with warehouse operative from Co-operative mock adverts and the like – it was a great Retail Logisitics in Alfreton. “It was a big laugh. I went to first summer school last step up from first summer school because year and second summer school is more you look more in-depth at the issues. I’m intense which I enjoyed. It’s a tiring week certainly better informed now. We looked but I’ve no regrets, it was fantastic. I’ll at women’s working experiences both think about the Academy for next year now and in the past and we also looked that seems like the most obvious next at pay inequality. It was a lot of hard step for me.” work but well worth it.” Vivian Anderson Des Murphy Chris McDermott Tesco rep Vivian Anderson from Hammersmith in London was allocated the politics group because of her background as an Academy1&2 graduate. “I wasn’t sure at first but the longer the course went on the more I got into it and enjoyed it,” she said. “I learnt so much about the connections between the union and politics and the importance of using MPs to get our message across in parliament. “I didn’t want the course to end so for me

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 | 11 MEMBER NETWORK | WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK SERVICES MEMBER SERVICES

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12 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK | NETWORK IN THE SPOTLIGHT ACTIVIST IN-DEPTH

Scottish division’s Laura McLean answers our

questions on her experiences as a rep ~ Why did you become an Is recruitment easy at your I was inspired to get up and join Usdaw rep? workplace? in a debate at ADM completely I had a bad manager and wanted to It’s quite easy. We already have a help those who felt they couldn’t high membership, we attend every unprompted. speak up for themselves, especially induction and after a member has a I would never have done that as our reps were all male and the successful representation, they before joining Usdaw! female staff were sometimes inevitably encourage their friends to reluctant to talk to them about some join. issues. ~ Have you changed at all What’s the best thing about since becoming a rep? being a rep? I am definitely more organised, I FACT FILE & TRIVIA All the new contacts and friends you have a lot more confidence and self meet and the support you get from belief, no one makes me feel FAST FACTS other reps, tutors and officials. intimidated now! n Age 33 The best moments have been negotiating change of hours for What’s your advice to a n Employer Sainsbury’s Dundee members who would otherwise have member thinking about n Occupation Merchandiser had to leave due to childcare becoming a rep? problems. Talk to other reps, your AO and your n Lives in a small town outside Perth called Coupar Angus ...and the worst? family about it, remember you can be The negative comments from non- as involved outside of your n Union positions Shop steward, branch members who can’t or won’t workplace as you want, but some secretary, equality forum member and understand the benefits of the union reps are happiest just at work. federation committee member or being involved in a dismissal, no n Branch Dundee PT G319 matter how it comes about. What are the most important n Usdaw Activist Since 2003 issues for your members at Have you been on any union present? MY FAVOURITE... training courses? Budget cuts, fuel prices and child friendly working arrangements. n Book.. is anything by I've been on almost every training Jodi Picoult course going! I think they are all very How would you improve well organised whether it’s an n TV programme.. Usdaw? dependant on what kind informal federation event or the of day I've had, awesome experience of the More advertising, ie in the press, sometimes I like hard Academy! The tutors are fantastic internet etc. hitting drama, and and they know what it’s like for you sometimes I need to chill out to something on the shopfloor as they've been What’s next for you? frothy and silly, but if Gok is on I'm there! there. I'm just about to start a second term TRIVIA on the equality forum, then hopefully Have you been to an ADM? Academy2. But mostly representing n In my spare time... I like to socialise and I have been to five ADMs, delivered members and doing the best I can for keep fit propositions at two of them and was them. n The best moment of my life so far... was inspired to get up and join a debate cuddling my new baby nephew for the first Want to be the next activist last year completely unprompted. in-depth? time I would never have done that before ✉ [email protected] joining Usdaw!

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 | 13 LIFELONG NETWORK | WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK LEARNING CHANGING LIVES Giving hard-working union members the chance to improve their skills, their confidence and their employability lies at the heart of what lifelong learning is all about, Network takes a closer look

hanks to mobile union learning rep Phil Gander and his team, night-shift  www.usdaw.org.uk/lifelong_learning T workers at the Tesco store in North Finchley, Greater London won’t be left in the dark when it comes to learning. The team organised a two-day Check Out Learning event in the store in September, which included night-shift and weekend workers. “Academy organisers Jeremy Hearn and Patrick Gyamfi and mobile union learning rep, Vicky Nelson worked with the reps. Management were very supportive and they agreed to brief all of the staff before the event,” said Phil Gander. “Night-shift manager Darrell Lewis allowed us to spend time with the night workers before they started their shift. “All in all it was very successful. Sixty-four members filled in surveys for literacy, basic IT and Spanish and twenty-one signed up for online learning. And we recruited ten new members and two new union learning reps. “I think it shows what we can achieve with teamwork. And it was important that we were able to organise a visit to staff on the late shift and show them that the campaign is there for all workers, we Academy organiser Patrick Gyamfi signs up Tamara Gabb had a fantastic response from them.” Susan spells success Glynis shines a light Susan Manson, a cleaner at it easier. However, I’m Tesco canteen assistant Glynis “By the time I sat down to Morrisons in Airdrie in dyslexic although I had kept it Nock won the Sunderland sit my exam I was petrified, I Lanarkshire has been named secret for many years. I spoke Colleges’ Learner of the Year thought I was going to fail. I the first Learner of the Year by to my ULR who advised me to Award at a gala ceremony at was so chuffed when I passed. Scottish Union Learning. speak to my tutor about it.” the City’s Stadium of Light Especially maths, I can’t “I always wanted to learn Susan’s tutor helped her last month. believe after so long I did it. about computers, but I didn’t access special software for The 60 year-old from Redcar “My personnel manager have the confidence,” said dyslexia, which helped her a in Cleveland stepped back wants to put a photograph of Susan, 44, who signed up for a lot during the course. into the classroom earlier this me with my certificate on the basic IT course at an Usdaw “For years I relied on my year for the first time in noticeboard to show and Check Out Learning campaign husband and son to read more then 40 years. encourage others to sign day. things for me. Now I just scan With the support of up to learning. “The course was run in- my mail and deal with it tutors and union “Winning the award store, which myself. It’s so nice not having learning reps along came as a big made to rely on anyone else – what with her own surprise. I still can’t I’ve learned with the support determination believe it’s of my union has completely she completed happened to me. I changed my life.” basic skills had a fantastic “I was shocked to courses in maths night at the hear I’d won the and English. stadium. I’d like to Learner of the Year, “At first I was thank everyone but I was so pleased very hesitant,” who has helped me and just hope that said Glynis. become more other learners out “But my tutor confident, without there are encouraged was brilliant, he that help I would to take a chance like I encouraged me never have won. I did – it’s worth it!” all the way. am very grateful.”

14 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK | NETWORK STAFF NEWS NEW APPOINTMENTS The union’s Academy, now in its eighth year, is proving to be the ideal training ground for new area organisers, five of whom have taken up their new roles in the last few months

aniel Adams made when she was appointed in Rob Donnelly up – the Academy1 in 2009, the switch from July. “The Academy was the Scotsman Rob Donnelly has Academy2 in 2010, and I’ve D central office to area perfect preparation for being moved to the Southern spent a lot of time as a stand- organiser at an organiser,” said the 32 year- division following his down rep. I was also a mobile Kegworth in July 2010 and will old. “Without it I wouldn’t appointment to the Morden union learning rep. The more I move again this time to have been ready for the office. The 38 year-old started became involved the more I Warrington in the New Year. organiser’s role and his new position in February wanted to do. I’m loving it.” The 32-year-old joined Usdaw responsibilities. I’m looking this year following three years as a research assistant in 2005 after retail members in both of hectic union activity. “I was Ian Irvine before being promoted to food and non-food at the a rep at Robert Wiseman’s Former DHL rep Ian Irvine Tesco team leader in the moment. It’s stressful Dairies and once I became completes the team after he research department in 2007. sometimes, but I’m loving it, involved I did Academy1 in was appointed to the Daniel had previously it’s brilliant.” 2009 and Academy2 in 2010 Faversham office in early graduated from Manchester and this really opened my November. The 36 year-old has University and went on to Rose Bevan eyes,” he said. “I’d worked in made the switch from the complete his doctorate in Former MidCounties Co-op retail for 18 years prior to this North West to the Southern British Trade Unionism in rep Rose Bevan has found her and didn’t get involved so it’s division. “This is a job I’ve 2008. Originally from Essex, perfect job after being been a dramatic change for me. always wanted so I wasn’t put Daniel is now a fully paid up appointed in July this year. “I The job is fantastic, every day off by the move,” said Ian, who Northerner. “I enjoyed get such a buzz out of helping is different and I’m really was a fork lift truck driver and working in the Midlands but people and winning their cases enjoying it.” warehouse operative from I’ll be glad to get back to the I wish I’d done this years ago,” Preston Brook in Cheshire North West,” he said. “It’s a said the 54 year-old, who is Sharon Langham prior to his appointment. challenging job being an based at the Cardiff office. Another Academy graduate “I’m still getting to know the organiser but I’m enjoying it, “I did Academy1 in 2010 and is Sharon Langham who took area and the reps, so I’m it’s everything I expected and was part way through up her appointment at spending long days sorting more.” Academy2 this year when I got Kegworth in July after seven everything out. I’m settling in the job. I love organising the busy years as an activist. The nicely. My responsibilities Jo-Anne Welbourne campaigns as well. The last former Tesco team leader from include a lot of industrial sites, Warrington-based Jo-Anne four or five years have been Ilkeston in Derbyshire is loving which I’m used to, and also Welbourne has swapped her crucial in my development. It her new job. “I’m now some of the big retailers. rep’s role at the Home Retail was then I took up the senior delivering for members on a “I was on Academy1 in 2010 Argos call centre in nearby rep’s role even though I’ve much bigger scale and and just finished Academy2 in Widnes to look after retail been a rep for nearly 20 years reaching out to more people,” time to take up my new role, workers in the North West in the Gloucester and said the 44 year-old. early days so far but it’s going division. Oxfordshire areas. I really “It’s a big step but the well.” The former Academy1 enjoy helping people so it’s a support I’ve had has been n To keep up with vacancies at graduate last year was in the very rewarding role, perfect for fantastic. All of my experiences Usdaw keep an eye on the middle of Academy2 this year me.” have helped me make the step website: www.usdaw.org.uk

Daniel Adams Jo-Anne Welbourne Rose Bevan Rob Donnelly Sharon Langham Ian Irvine

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 | 15 RETAIL TRADES NETWORK | WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK CONFERENCE REPS ARE AT THE HEART OF THIS UNION Too many reps are slipping through the union’s net in the first two years of service and Usdaw is out to turn this around and build on the successes its reps have enjoyed in the last ten years

sdaw is determined to address talking about the natural turnover that reps from day one. We are looking at the U the quit rate among reps with a happens when people retire or change early interaction between the union and thoroughgoing review of how employer. We are talking about hundreds the new reps to see how we can make it the union trains and retains its of reps every year making an active better. We are looking at everything. most precious resource, deputy general decision not to stay active. This is “We need to ensure that all new reps – secretary Paddy Lillis told conference. something that we urgently need to in fact all reps – have positive “So far this year, over 2,500 members address. experiences, get the support they need, have agreed to become reps, but the “We also know that of the reps who and have the opportunity to develop into overall numbers of reps have increased give up the role, 60 per cent give up the the experienced reps who stick with the by only 150 so far this year because each role in the first two years of being a rep. union for years and who successfully year there is a turnover of 27 per cent We must ensure that every one of you organise their workplaces. among our activists,” he said. feels valued and supported, from the “I can’t overstate how important good “That means that each year one in four very first day you step forward to take up reps in the workplace are. We all know gives up the role of being a rep. And we the challenge of representing your they are crucial to the success of the know from our own research that two colleagues. union. And we know we have thousands thirds of the reps who quit their role were “Because there is no doubt that being a of good reps that’s why Usdaw currently people who continued their membership rep is truly a challenge. It can be has over 409,000 members. At the end of and continued to work for the same incredibly rewarding, but it can also be 2006 we had 341,000 members. That is an employer. tough. Fitting in union work alongside increase in overall membership of over “So we your job, your home and family life can 68,000 in five years. So we are doing aren't sometimes seem impossible. many things right. But we can do better just “As a union, we have a big and we will look closely at how we can responsibility to our reps that’s why next better support our activists.” year we are planning to launch a project around Supporting and Developing Reps. We are currently reviewing the support that we give to

Coalition’s policies are making matters worse

The Retail Trades Conference is one of secretary John Hannett told delegates. the most important conferences in “It’s clear we are in a severe recession with no end in sight. Usdaw’s calendar because However, the Tory-led Coalition Government’s efforts to tackle 75 per cent of our the recession seem to focus on making things even more difficult members work in the for ordinary, hard working people like you and our members retail sector which and their families. means the issues that “The Coalition has attacked benefits, cut tax credits, frozen matter to them public sector wages and are now attacking pensions. But its matter to us, general approach is not working, the economy is not growing. Instead

16 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK | NETWORK RETAIL TRADES CONFERENCE ART OF THIS UNION out to turn this around and build on the successes its reps have enjoyed in the last ten years

Varied debates put activists in the spotlight Delegates agreed to support eight should be classed as ‘mitigating and the manager lets the sale proceed. propositions on a variety of subjects. circumstances’ under the Supporting Our members deserve to be protected.” Kay Timbrell from South Wales & Your Attendance policy.” Other propositions on till checks, help Western division called on companies to Southern division’s Amy Murphy for the partially sighted, and premium work closely with Usdaw to monitor and spoke up against the widespread practice payments were also debated and review their discrimination policies to of employers cutting staff numbers and supported. ensure they retain the confidence of hours back even further. “Staffing levels Pictured above (l-r) deputy employees. “Discrimination should not in retail are seeing low morale and more general secretary Paddy Lillis, be tolerated and it’s up to all of us to staff going off sick because of too much Lesley Jarvis, Amy Murphy, Kay Timbrell, Ken Sharpe and Anne make sure our members are safe in their pressure. Staff are having to do their own Watkins workplaces,” she said. job plus that of absent colleagues. Ken Sharpe from Eastern division Enough is enough our members are at wants the executive council to consider breaking point,” she said. the viability of a generic style induction Companies should video so that every new starter can see support and protect their what the union can do for them at the staff from customers who earliest opportunity. “This would be become abusive just to particularly aimed at companies where get round the returns there is no induction material to assist the policy in-store, Southern reps and could be shown within any division’s Lesley Jarvis company,” he said. told delegates. “You Women who are going through the often see this with menopause should not be victimised by underage sales employers’ absence policies, Anne refusals as well,” Watkins told conference. “The she said. “A menopause affects 99.9 per cent of customer women in many different ways, both becomes angry, mentally and physically and we feel this causes a scene

inflation has rocketed, job insecurity is high and wages have near inflation deals, in fact many workers are facing pay freezes stagnated. The cuts in public services will have and will – particularly in the public sector. continue to have a huge impact on Usdaw members and the “However, Usdaw is achieving settlements of around 2.5 per retail sector. cent which is in line with, if not slightly above, average “The ramifications are being felt in all sectors and in all settlements across the economy. It’s obvious being a member of industries; no-one has been immune, not even retail food a trade union has never been more important. because shoppers are now even cutting back on groceries. This “The Tory-led Coalition is intent on attacking workers’ rights new austerity was reflected in results released by the so we will be vigorously opposing any changes to worsen supermarkets recently. Retailers described current trading employment legislation. And we will continue to represent conditions as the ‘toughest in a generation.’ members at work and we will lobby for members’ wider “As a result negotiations in this economic climate are interests in society.” especially difficult. No union is achieving inflation or anywhere Visit: www.usdaw.org.uk

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 | 17 CAMPAIGN NETWORK | WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK IN FOCUS Welsh Assembly RESPECT WEEK HITS THE SHOPS 2

Reps from across the UK took the union’s Freedom From Fear campaign to shoppers he union’s annual Respect For Shopworkers Week was held in November and attracted a record number T of reps and members to help spread the union’s message. This year the week had a double message. Firstly a reminder to all customers to Keep Their Cool ahead of the festive season and secondly a campaign against the Tory-led Coalition’s plans to cut the number of police officers. There were also high profile events at Westminster, Holyrood and the Welsh Assembly where activists and officials received a warm welcome from Labour MPs, MSPs and AMs. Politicians also appeared at events on the high street in shopping malls and at individual stores to lend their support to the high profile campaign. General secretary John Hannett was delighted with the reps’ response. “Once again our activists have pulled out all the stops to take our respect agenda on to the high street,” he said. “Many thanks to those reps and members who took part. We know the festive season can get very fraught for customers but there is no excuse for abuse aimed at our members.”

Westminster

8

1

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION... 11

1 Deputy general secretary Paddy Lillis joins Usdaw members and MPs at Westminster 2 Welsh Assembly, Cardiff 3 Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh 4 Morrisons, Reading 5 Tesco, Solhull 6 Tesco Extra, Beccles 7 Tesco, Bradford, 8 Co-op North Shields with Alan Campbell MP 9 One-Stop, Llandudno 10 Tesco, Barrow-in-Furness 11 Tesco, Swansea 12 Tesco, Dundee 13 Morrisons, Livingston

18 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 CAMPAIGN IN FOCUS y Holyrood

3 4

5 6 7

9 10

13 12 RECRUITMENT NETWORK | WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK & ORGANISING SIGNING UP POTENT Holding a campaign day is always popular with existing and potential new members as it raises the p that’s Freedom From Fear, Supporting Parents and Carers, Young Workers or Vulnerable Workers. H

ix months training given three days stand-down. members of staff booked a benefits of Legal Plus both for with last year’s “I briefed the reps about consultation in advance to themselves and their families. S Academy paid off how to run the day. We put up speak to the solicitor about “It was a great feeling when immediately for posters and I contacted local domestic issues. three colleagues signed up Tesco Extra rep Anas Ghaffar Usdaw solicitors Walker “It went down extremely immediately and then another (pictured third left) after he Smith who agreed to send well. The whole event was 21 joined over the next three returned to his store and Laura Cooper along to deal very well organised and made days leaving membership at a organised a Legal Plus with members’ legal queries. the union look very healthy 65 per cent. Awareness day and signed up “In the week leading up to professional. It surprised me, “And because of its success 24 new members. the event, fellow rep Laxi despite all the information the we’re keen to run similar “The Academy was Kaur informed staff about the union puts out, how many campaign days in the future.” fantastic, I had a lot of range of things they could get members were still different experiences and I advice on unaware about learned so much,” said Anas, and ten the many 26, from Slough in Berkshire, who recruited 300 new members during his time with the Academy. “I was keen to get back to my store and get working on some of my ideas. “I spoke to my personnel manager, Yvette Borowiec, who is also a union member, about organising a Legal Plus Awareness campaign. She was very supportive and agreed to provide all the facilities in-store including a private room for consultations with the solicitor. “I had help and support from my area organiser Mike Parsonage and I was also

IN NUMBERS Keep telling your members about Legal Plus

MEMBERSHIP BY DIVISION FOR You can never tell After You and Your members and existing WEEK ENDED: 19 NOVEMBER 2011 members too often about Family leaflet and members. the benefits of Legal Plus poster. n Ensure all the reps and South Wales & Western 47,738 and FirstCall Usdaw. n Member’s letters of activists know the scope Eastern 59,006 Remember there is also a endorsement after of Legal Plus and can high turnover of staff in having used FirstCall spread the word. Midlands 56,369 Usdaw trades so reps Usdaw. n Ensure all the reps and have to repeat the n Make sure that all your activists know about North Eastern 56,423 message on a regular members have the FirstCall Usdaw and Scottish 44,226 basis for new starters. FirstCall Usdaw card. can spread the word. Don’t forget to make sure n Circulate regularly the n Check that your leaflets Southern 55,275 that the noticeboard is up FirstCall Usdaw leaflets are up to date – the to date and contains the: and cards. website will tell you North West 91,978 n FirstCall Usdaw poster n Circulate the Legal Plus what the latest TOTAL 411,015 R46 and the Looking materials to new leaflets are.

20 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK | NETWORK RECRUITMENT & ORGANISING IAL NEW MEMBERS rofile of the union and shows how Usdaw is speaking up on all of the important issues whether ere we look at two reps who organised Pensions and Legal Plus Awareness Days in their stores

orrisons’ rep membership now standing Keith at around 60 per cent. Hold Pensions Awareness Days Kivelehan from “We’re hoping to improve M Everything you need is your employer to promote Edinburgh on this extending the organised a Pensions campaign by leaving some contained in the Pensions a valuable company Awareness Day in his store leaflets in the staff canteen Awareness Reps’ Toolkit. benefit, so it’s in the in August and it was a huge and by speaking to the night It contains: company’s interest too. success. shift and shop floor to keep n a rep’s briefing n Contact Usdaw’s pension “Not only did we raise the the issue fresh in their n a pensions survey section in the legal profile of Usdaw and the minds. n a campaign poster department at central pension issue, we signed up “One comment from a n a home study course office and you will be sent new members to the union member stands out, he said: application form any additional and to the company pension ‘I don’t want to retire and n a pensions leaflet promotional merchandise. scheme,” said Keith. find my pension can only n a state pension forecast n Usdaw’s pension team “We set up the stall in the buy me a cappuccino’. application form. (If you can also help you liaise staff canteen and every “To any rep out there don’t already have the with your company’s member who came in that thinking of holding a Reps’ Toolkit you can pension department to get day visited the stall, even Pensions Awareness Day, I order it from the specific information, the store personnel manager. say do it. The pensions team stationery department at which will help you “The store general at central office offered me central office). interest staff at your manager was also very every support. The n Discuss holding the day workplace. supportive and said he information they supplied with the relevant n Remember you don’t would speak to the night was clear, concise and not as manager, agree a suitable have to be a pension shift and supply them with complicated as I feared it date, time and venue – expert to hold an any materials I could leave would be, so a big thank you remember you are helping awareness day. for them. to them.” “Several members (l-r) Mike Peat, John commented on recent press Sharp, Craig Daniel coverage concerning and Keith Kivelehan pensions and made the decision to visit personnel and sign up to the Morrisons pension scheme. The deciding factors were that Morrisons also contributes to the scheme and the uncertainty over future state provision. “Teamwork involving John Sharp and Mike Peat from the Academy has seen

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 | 21 RECRUITMENT NETWORK | WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK & ORGANISING ACADEMY TAKES REP This year’s Academies finished in November after another successful six months secondment for mo reps a rich and rewarding experience which will better equip them for their future involvement in the Mandy earns plenty of respect Paul rose to the new challenge

cademy2 understand the aims of the f you like a challenge “I put all I learned into organiser Mandy campaign. We told them that the Academy is the practice in October when I ran AIDavies (left) as shoppers ourselves we feel perfect experience, said my first campaign event at the supported reps the same frustrations. Southern division’s Sainsbury’s Crayford store in during Respect Week at the “We know what it feels like Paul Jackson (right). Dartford. Tesco store in Fforestfach in when an item isn’t on the “Working with the union “I had two tables with Swansea. shelf, or a store is too busy, or away from your own information about all the “I enlisted the help of the customer in front is too workplace for six months union’s campaigns at the front experienced reps Anne slow. teaches you so much,” said of the store. Meacock and Paul Wiemers “Dane and James explained the Sainsbury’s night shift “There was a great response who joined forces with young the idea behind the scratch worker. from staff and the public and I reps Dane Davies and James cards on ‘Think 25’ and it “It takes you out of your recruited four new members Hookway and we took the went down very well. It made comfort zone and you have to which brought my tally at the campaign to the public,” said customers more aware of how learn to think outside the box. time up to 220. I was delighted. Mandy, a graduate of last difficult it is for staff just like You have to be very organised “I also managed to get over year’s Academy1. Dane and James to ID and plan ahead. It also helped 50 signatures on the ‘Stop the “Speaking to customers someone who may or may me with my reading and Police Cuts’ petition, which face to face helped them to not be over 18.” writing. was great.”

Elaine’s experience pays off Feel inspired? idlands use my new skills to work If you are interested in taking Academy together with the other part in a future Academy Morganiser reps to improve on this. you will need to be available Elaine Selway “I’ve already had some for the full six-months of the (centre) is looking forward fantastic training with the programme. to taking her Academy union and learned a lot experiences back into her about maternity rights, n The 2012 programme own workplace at the disability, discrimination starts on 14 May 2012 and Morrisons store in Rubery. and vulnerable workers. application forms must “It’s been a fantastic six I’ve also been to weekend be received by 27 months. I’d recommend it conferences and federation January 2012. to every rep who wants to schools. n You can register for any advance and progress. I “When you are out there future intakes of the learned so much about with the Academy visiting Academy by e-mailing myself and the union,” different workplaces you [email protected] or said Elaine. can see where this advice for further information and to “Membership in my and training can help with apply online visit: store is currently around a variety of different www.usdaw.org.uk/academy 40 per cent and I want to problems and situations.”

22 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK | NETWORK RECRUITMENT & ORGANISING PS TO NEW HEIGHTS ore than 70 activists. Network talks to five reps from this year’s intake. It’s clear the Academies give union. Applications are now being sought for 2012’s intake. Visit: www.usdaw.org.uk/academy Tracy puts campaigns to the fore Henry broadens his horizons

he Academy is the and at the Tesco stores in esco’s Henry enlightening and met up with perfect platform for Annan, Lockerbie and in my Dawodu (centre) the store manager and staff. It TTany rep to develop own store in the Peel Centre in knew from day one also showed me how Usdaw their organising Dumfries where we also he had made the operates in a workplace with skills says Scotland’s Tracy enlisted the support of local right decision to apply for the a different agreement to the McKie (centre). MSP Russell Brown. Academy. Tesco Partnership we have. “Over the last six months “And we highlighted the “When I turned up on my “From there on it was full I’ve been working with teams many benefits of Legal Plus first day back in May it was speed ahead, no two days of reps in a variety of stores in with a special awareness all a bit daunting, but I were the same. It’s been very my division helping them event at the Tesco store in couldn’t wait to get started,” satisfying to have the chance liaise with their managers and Castle Douglas. said Henry from Chatham in to put all I’ve learned to the organise and run their own “We recruited new members Kent. test and run my own campaigns. It’s been a steep and reps and showed the “I met my area organiser campaigns, such as the one I learning curve for everyone union in a very positive way. Sue Prynn outside Morrisons ran during Respect Week at but a really enjoyable one too. And it’s a great feeling when in Canterbury for my first the Sainsbury’s Local in “We ran very successful the reps come back to you and visit to a store I wasn’t Ashford in Kent. Freedom From Fear events at say they can’t wait to organise familiar with. “Thanks to the Academy the Co-op in Castle Douglas their next event.” “I found the whole day very I’ve come a long way.”

Top team This year’s Academy1 intake met up in Manchester for their final get-together and to receive their certificates and engraved pen from the deputy general secretary Paddy Lillis. “It’s been another great year for our reps on the Academy,” he said. “Congratulations and well done to all of the reps for their dedication, hard-work and commitment. I’m sure they will return to their workplaces better equipped to deliver for their members.”

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 | 23 POLITICS NETWORK | WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK AND YOU TIME TO STAND UP A A new national campaign network is to be set up to give members a stronger political voice w

he Tory-led Coalition initiatives will be to host a huge why Usdaw has always sought a because significant numbers of T poses such a dangerous conference in February to political voice, but it is crucially our members helped to do threat to Usdaw co-ordinate the campaign and set important that we are politically something simple, like make members’ living standards that up a network of Labour- active in our workplaces and comments on a website, write to the union is determined to make supporting activists. communities. or email their MP, or sign a its political voice even louder by General secretary John Hannett “Last year, when Labour lost petition. reinvigorating its campaigning explained. “Usdaw is a power, our political campaigning “We are now looking to build a profile. campaigning union, we exist to changed significantly. It is clear network of Labour-supporting One of the first improve workers’ lives and win for from the first 500 days of this members who are prepared to do our members. In the main we do Government that they do not have such small campaign actions from that through negotiation with the best interests of our members time-to-time and want to be employers, but sometimes there at heart. contacted when there is an issue are issues that cannot be “Cutting police numbers, taking on which they could help to make resolved in the workplace money from working parents, a real difference for our members. and we need a legislative weakening health and safety “Next February we will ‘launch’ solution. That is legislation, removing workplace this network and an ongoing rights, cutting the education programme of political campaigns maintenance allowance, trebling at a much bigger National Political tuition fees and much more, are Conference that will include all policies that adversely affect delegates who are Labour our members. supporters, members of the “To tackle this we are Labour Party or on our divisional looking to reinvigorate our political committee. political campaigning and that “This will help ensure that our means we need activists on the political work reaches many more ground doing a little bit to help our of our members and activists. campaigns. Even with the current “You can help make this Government, we have seen happen by signing up as a Labour successes in campaigns to stop supporter. All reps were invited to the deregulation of Sunday apply to go to the February trading hours and to reduce the National Political Conference.” impact of the unfair increase in For more on the Labour Party state pension age. visit: www.usdaw.org.uk/ “Those successes came about usdaw4labour

Contact the politics section on: 0161 249 2452 ✉ [email protected]  www.usdaw.org.uk/usdaw4labour

Usdaw backing Ken Macintosh and Anas

Usdaw is supporting Ken that the SNP have let down Neither did the SNP support Macintosh and Anas Scottish workers and Usdaw Usdaw-backed proposals on the Sarwar for the positions members in particular on some protection of workers in the last of leader and deputy key issues. session of Parliament. I will work leader of the Scottish Scottish Labour agreed to with Usdaw and across the Labour Party in the consult on New Year's Day Scottish trade union movement forthcoming elections. trading to stop the exploitation of to ensure legislation is debated in Here’s why: workers over the festive period. the Scottish Parliament to The SNP dropped this provide workers who serve the Ken Macintosh consultation within weeks of public with more protection. People say there isn't a entering office – I will ensure the I am committed to working difference between the Scottish Labour Party brings it with Usdaw members to bring parties in Scotland – back to Parliament so the forward real change in the there is - and you don’t concerns of shopworkers are workplace and to make sure the need to look far to see addressed. union has a growing voice in and WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK | NETWORK POLITICS AND YOU TIME TO STAND UP AGAINST THE CUTS A new national campaign network is to be set up to give members a stronger political voice while Usdaw continues to call on the Government to stop cutting the number of police officers

sdaw members could created the PCSOs to give a be at risk of more higher profile to street policing, U violence if the Tory-led and formed neighbourhood Coalition get away with police teams. their plans to cut thousands of “And that reduction in crime police officers, general secretary was replicated for our members John Hannett told the Labour with the British Retail Party conference in September. Consortium’s Annual Retail “Does anyone really believe Crime Survey showing that that by cutting frontline policing, violent incidents against crime will continue to fall?” he shopworkers halved since asked. “That is not the logical 2004. conclusion I draw. I fear that “Under the Tory-led Coalition when these cuts bite we will be Britain could easily return to the left with a much less effective dark days of Thatcher, with high police force, which will be grossly unemployment, high crime and under-staffed and terribly little hope.” demoralised. “We know that every minute of every day another shopworker is assaulted, threatened or abused. Cutting police numbers – with a predicted loss of 16,000 frontline police officers and 1,800 PCSOs, and over 16,000 policing staff who do vital work to keep police officers on the frontline – will put our members at a greater risk” “Don’t just take my word for it, the Police Federation is saying ‘20 per cent cuts to policing are criminal’. “Let’s not forget that crime fell by 43 per cent under Labour Usdaw’s delegation and (above) John Hannett with because it put thousands of shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper MP extra officers on the street,

Usdaw backing Ken Macintosh and Anas Sarwar in elections

around the Scottish movement's history. never define my politics by my Parliament. I believe that by In May the Scottish people allegiance to a flag but rather working together we can make gave us a warning, that to to the values of the Labour a difference here in Scotland. regain their support we must movement, a global I hope you can support me change. movement rooted in fairness, to be the next leader of I am standing for Deputy equality and justice. Scottish Labour so we can Leader because I recognise I care deeply about the place a renewed emphasis on that a failure to radically future of our Party and our improving the lives of union transform the way we engage country. I have the energy members and their families with the public, to assert our and determination to bring across Scotland. positive vision for Scotland, our movement together and and to define our values and working with you regain the Anas Sarwar principles will mean that we trust of the people and help This has been one of the most have let Scotland down. build a fairer and more difficult times in our I love Scotland but I will prosperous Scotland. EQUALITIES NETWORK | WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK IN FOCUS BLACK MEMBERS IN ACTION AT WEEKEND Firmly established in the union’s calendar, this annual event brings together members and activists keen to play a bigger part in the union’s anti-racist agenda, Network dropped in

sdaw’s black and Asian concerns our black and Asian members that had close family members living members met up in early have. We know that theirs is a voice that overseas,” she said. October for their annual sometimes struggles to be heard at work “This meant that they struggled to put U weekend workshop. and in the union, especially where they in place contingency plans for the care of This year the weekend was spent are in the minority. their child when they become ill for exploring the pressures black and Asian “It’s important the union listens to all example and so can’t go to the child families are currently under, particularly the different sections of its membership minder, nursery or school. in light of the Tory-led Coalition cuts to to find out more about the issues that “I know this causes problems for all public services and financial support for specifically affect them and to ensure that parents but where you don’t have a working parents. our national campaigns address those network of family support nearby who General secretary John Hannett said issues.” can help it can be really difficult. In these “Usdaw recognises that our members are The weekend was spent discussing key cases, and every case is different, it might really feeling the pressure in the current rights at work in particular the right to be that you simply need more time off to economic climate. request flexible working and the right to make alternative care arrangements.” “Working parents have lost much emergency time off for dependents. needed financial support over the last Delegates confirmed how important If you want to get involved in the two years. They’ve seen cuts to help with these rights are but felt that too often union’s equality agenda contact childcare costs and Housing Benefit, the managers fail to recognise that not all your local office 0845 6060640 or loss of the Child Trust Fund, the removal parents or carers have family members the equalities section at central of the Health in Pregnancy Grant and the living nearby who can step in to help out office freezing of Child Benefit. during an emergency. ■ 0161 224 2804 “I was pleased to see that almost half As Sonia Foster, Usdaw rep at of those members that attended this Sainsbury’s in Dulwich explained. “Not ■ [email protected] weekend were new to union activity. that long ago we had quite a few ■ www.usdaw.org.uk/equalities This weekend gives us the perfect members in my store opportunity to raise awareness of workers’rights. “It also gives us the chance to hear about the distinct

26 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK | NETWORK EQUALITIES IN FOCUS Listening to what the members have to say... heckout supervisor Terica share experiences with members from “We had an interesting session on Powell, from Peckham in South different workplaces and jobs and learn stereotyping versus reality. I found this a London thought the weekend from each other. bit difficult at times because it’s hard to Cwas ‘awesome’. “I was surprised at the number of think like a racist when you are not one. “I’d heard other reps say it was good people who attended and from how far, “It made me realise people need to be and I was eager to try it out for myself,” including Scotland. We all got on really educated, not just about black and Asian said the 25 year-old. well. Everyone was so helpful and members, but also about the effect their “I enjoyed meeting all the other friendly. words can have on others whether they members from different companies “I even had the opportunity to chat are meant in a hurtful way or not. because I found out what things were with John Hannett which I enjoyed. “I was pleased I had the confidence to like in their workplaces and I even “The whole weekend was first-class, talk in front of the group, and feel that exchanged email addresses with some of including the hotel and meals. my self-belief is growing the more I take them before I came home. “After the weekend when I returned to myself out of my comfort zone. “I learned a lot especially about work I felt upbeat, more confident and “I’d like to be more involved in the workers who have students visa’s and understood my role as a rep better.” union, and I’ve applied to be on the the pressure put upon them to produce sda rep Ku Baiden from equalities forum and I’m thinking about and show their passports and documents Northern Ireland ‘fully the divisional council. at work. enjoyed the weekend’. “I just want to keep learning and A challenging myself, and continue to do “When I returned to work my “The guest speakers, colleagues were eager to find out about especially black educationalist Gus John, my best for those who rely on me.” the weekend. were very interesting,” said the 31 year- “In my workplace a lot of members old. “His talk supported all the things I think the union is only there for when already do with my children with regards (top l-r) Ernest Mainza,Ku Baiden and Terica Powell they have a problem. to respect, manners and direction. It was (below) members during one of the “I left the weekend determined to very inspiring. workshops encourage members in my store to get more involved and attend union events like this in the division. “And then next year I’d like to see more of them attend this national weekend.” or 48 year-old Ernest Mainza who works for Tesco in Cirencester, the weekend was F ‘excellent’. “It was very educational, the tutors were wonderful and I learned a lot about a variety of union issues,” he said. “It was also a great opportunity to

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 | 27 HEALTH & NETWORK | WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK SAFETY Be prepared for winter UK winters have become more unpredictable but one thing is certain – snow

inter is Heating systems should have been serviced exceptional on its before the cold weather hits. cold spells, W way. Employers have a duty to maintain a reasonable then the So temperature in indoor workplaces at all times. employer with snow and ice The workplace regulations state that 16 degrees should likely to cause Celsius (or 13 degrees Celsius for physically have a problems up and strenuous work) is normally the minimum back-up down the country, requirement. policy in employers should There will be some indoor workplaces where this place. have plans in place to cannot be done. In such cases employers should Hiring deal with the try to minimise the time spent in the cold. They temporary problem should also take other steps such as providing heating, before it suitable protective clothing. providing free hot happens. For outside workers, minimising exposure, drinks, relaxing uniform Check protective clothing and access to somewhere and dress codes, and giving more out our warm for rest breaks are required. frequent breaks may all be appropriate winter advice. If the heating breaks down or if it can’t cope in depending on the circumstances.

Employers should: reasonable minimum temperature. This Usdaw reps should: n Stock up on salt and grit so that yards, should be issued as personal protective n Regularly inspect the delivery areas, points of access etc are kept equipment if a risk assessment dictates and workplace and ensure as clear of ice as possible to ensure the should not be left to the whim of a manager. control measures are safety of people using them. n Where members drive for their job, implemented to minimise n Repair and clear any leaking pipes and employers should provide refresher training the risk to members spillages to stop ice forming and creating slip on defensive driving in winter e.g. during cold periods. hazards. checking lights, wipers, etc. before n Ensure there is good lighting in and around going out; checking the weather the workplace, which can reduce the risk of forecast; carry a mobile phone, shovel, an accident. flask of hot tea/coffee and have a blanket n Be aware of the importance of warm clothing on board. And it should be clear that when working in cold conditions outside or the driver can abandon a journey if even indoors where it is difficult to maintain a it isn’t safe.

Should I stay or should I go? Getting to work in bad weather

Travel to and from work can be a your employer about contacting work to n ensure that problem when snow and ice is around. say you won't be in. your vehicle is People are advised to follow government Even if you do decide to travel remember prepared for the advice on whether it is safe to travel. If the journey will take longer and take journey you drive your own car to work there is basic precautions in case there are n carry warm clothing, useful government advice on driving in further delays. For example: blankets, hot drinks, a winter conditions. Check out the n check the weather forecast and road shovel, and suitable Highways Agency advice at: conditions footwear www.highways.gov.uk n consider other routes n tell someone at your If you don't think it is safe to attempt the n consider other types of transport destination what time you journey, follow any procedures set by n allow extra time for your journey expect to arrive.

Email Doug Russell on ✉ [email protected] or visit the website:  www.usdaw.org.uk/healthandsafety

28 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK | NETWORK HEALTH & SAFETY

HSE to charge fees for lawbreakers IN BRIEF

n RIDDOR changes not in new ‘Fee for Fault’ enforcement due until April 2012 In the last edition of Network FEE PLANS SET FOR 2012 scheme, they argue its ability to breach (for which no charge we referred to the inspect and enforce even in can be imposed). Government’s plan to Plans for the HSE to charge a serious cases will be greatly There is a worry that some change the accident fee to duty-holders who are reduced. employers may view legitimate reporting regulations. When found to be in breach of health The TUC has reluctantly enforcement action as solely a the law is changed and safety laws are well accepted the case for cost money-raising exercise, and employers will only have to advanced and should come recovery, but only under the the relationship may become report accidents which result into use early in 2012. following terms; ‘if it is linked t o even more adversarial than it in seven days off work rather The ‘Fee for Fault’ is prevention; it does not already is. than the current three day intended to allow the HSE to influence HSE’s inspection The scheme will only apply to rule. recover the formal enforcement strategy and all the net HSE-enforced businesses and The proposed change is costs when there has been a proceeds are retained by HSE.’ not to retail and distribution causing some confusion. So, ‘material’ breach of the law. The main concerns about the where Local Authorities are to be clear, the current rule The HSE is facing massive scheme are around the way in responsible for enforcement, so still applies at present – any cuts in public funding of around which it may affect the most Usdaw members will not injury that results in more £80million per year. It has relationship between the be affected by the change. than three days off normal estimated that the Fee for Fault inspectors and business. For members in the duties should still be system could recover £43.6 There is uncertainty over the manufacturing sector, however, reported. The change is not million to fill some of that gap. definition of a ‘material’ breach it could have a significant likely to come in before 6 Without a cost-recovery as opposed to a ‘technical’ impact. April 2012. Even when the change does Change in dog come in, employers will still Safety strategy update have a legal duty to record law needed over-three day incidents even though they will only have to Usdaw is giving its support to a Trade unions have agreed to sections of the food industry, report over-seven day campaign aiming to tighten up sign up to a new common meat processing and dairy incidents. the law on dangerous dogs in strategy to continue the have been identified as two If any reps are being told by England. The campaign calls improvement of health and sectors which will still be managers that the change is for more responsibility to be safety in food and subject to inspection because already in force please put on owners rather than the manufacturing alongside of their higher risks. contact the health and safety breed of dog and for the law to employers’ organisations and Reps in food manufacture section at central office. be extended to cover private the HSE. and dairy can find out more n Injuries down but homes as well as public The Recipe for Safety about the common strategy worrying rise in fatalities spaces campaign which all three and the Recipe for Safety This is especially important stakeholder groups have been campaign on the HSE website: The latest statistics from the to Usdaw members who supporting since the early www.hse.gov.uk/food HSE show a six per cent deliver to people’s homes. At 1990s, has seen a 50 per cent decline in reported injuries. present a dog attack is only reduction in accident rates However there is an subject to criminal law if it over the last 20 years. alarming 16 per cent happens in a public place. Any However, the rate still remains increase in the number of redress for attacks in private higher than the manufacturing workers killed at work – up homes must be pursued average. from 147 deaths to 171 through the civil courts. The new strategy identifies deaths. The campaign is supported what else HSE, employers and Several health and safety by major animal welfare unions will do to continue to organisations have criticised charities, the police and the drive down accidents and the HSE’s claim that the trade unions. The Scottish reduce health risks. The figures show a continued Government has already commitment from the HSE fall in workplace injury and ill moved to introduce tighter laws to continue support health. in line with the campaign. despite its reduced They argue that the sharp A petition is on the resources was rise in fatalities at a time of Government’s e-petition site welcomed by economic stagnation should calling for the necessary employers and ring alarm bells. Critics also changes to the law. Please sign unions. point to a levelling out of the petition and encourage Although HSE is work-related ill health members to do so as well: being forced to problems. More at: http://epetitions.direct.gov. reduce proactive www.hse.gov.uk/statistics uk/petitions/22631 inspections in many

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 | 29 YOUR NETWORK | WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK LETTERS

Celebrating 30 years membership

with Usdaw SEND YOUR LETTERS TO‘ : Network Editor, Usdaw, 188 Wilmslow Road, Manchester M14 6LJ 1 2 3 1. Twins Julie Sawrey (left) and Karen McCleary from Tesco’s city centre store in Chester 2 . Anne Daly (right) and Kay Bateman from ✉ [email protected] 5. Ricky Anastasiades from Tesco, Weston Favell in Northampton with area organiser Dave Thom 6 . Ann Sutcliffe and Mary Watson from

STAR LETTER £50 UP FOR GR Write t ABS! o the editor of CITY PARADE you Network and could win £50 if your letter is chosen as the star letter. This iss ue’s winner is Usdaw at Durham Miners Gala Barry Wiggins

While we are often seen as a quiet mining banners were union, we are a very strong one that carried to the parade, and supports the local communities and lots of memories were their people, so when the North Eastern shared. division joined the Durham Miners After the event we Gala it was in part a solidarity march, retired to an evening meal but for many of us it was a throwback with strong debates on the to our past. march, political-fuelled I speak from my perspective of being rants and lots of friendship. brought up in a mining community The following day we did decimated and destroyed by the Tory a walkabout leafleting for party in the 1980s. the local MP. We had a very long day, setting off at Many thanks must be 5am to be in Durham before seven, as given to Jayne Shotton for the streets were cordoned off for traffic. the day’s events, and we We then slowly progressed down the are currently seeking streets over several hours getting, as all with the political the banners do, a smile and a wave and committee, to make this lots of applause and cheers. We walked a yearly event as this is a the length of the town to the village North Eastern tradition cricket ground, with stalls, and the day that we truly want to adopt ended with speeches and rallying calls and make part of our against the Tory-led Coalition. calendar. We went from searing heat and blue skies to downpours every few hours Barry but that could not dampen the feeling WigginS we had. It was reported 130,000 Branch secretary marchers made the event and many old F187

Federation dedication Snap happy Manchester and District Federation held The article in the July/August Network a workshop in September on the ADM. magazine regarding recruitment week This weekend school was excellent and at Sainsbury’s Blackpole in Worcester we would like to thank the tutor John was revceived enthusiastically by the Gorle who delivered the workshop in a members who were very pleased very informal manner. they have featured in the magazine. All who attended, new and They wish to thank Usdaw and Gavin experienced reps, played a part ensuring for such a good write up. its success. Sarah hugheS, Brenda Bell area organiser, nW Tesco retail no.7 K227 redditch office

30 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK | NETWORK YOUR LETTERS

4 5 6

1. Twins Julie Sawrey (left) and Karen McCleary from Tesco’s city centre store in Chester 2 . Anne Daly (right) and Kay Bateman from Shop Direct, Thynne Street in Bolton 3 . John Duncan and Gary Hughes from BakeMark in Bromborough 4 . Graham Jervis (right) from the Burton Latimer Weetabix with convenor Tony Beeby. 5. Ricky Anastasiades from Tesco, Weston Favell in Northampton with area organiser Dave Thom 6 . Ann Sutcliffe and Mary Watson from Victoria Morrisons in Bradford with branch secretary David Chadwick. A lso celebrating 30 years are Veronica Lyness from Tesco in Weston Favell and Andy Sawrey from Chester Tesco.

MEETING OF MINDS Scottish divisional conference The theme of October’s Scottish Smith, with a framed collage made divisional conference was up of the flag that was used at T in ‘Defending health and safety – the Park and thanked him for all protecting members’ with Usdaw the work he has done with them health and safety officer Doug this year. Russell as the guest speaker. A big thank you to everyone Over the weekend members of who attended the weekend for Academy1 made a presentation to making it another successful conference each giving an event. overview of a part of their training, and the Divisional Youth laWrenCe WaSon Committee presented their divisional officer Academy1 with divisional officials co-ordinator, area organiser Craig Scottish division

CEREAL ACTIVISTS School of thought End of the line for two Weetabix stalwarts Just back from summer school and it was great. A big thank you to all Two of our long-serving reps at the members at heart and was a worthy and who nominated me, it was an Weetabix site in Burton Latimer were well deserved recipient of this award. experience I wont forget. I went recently presented with a certificate and Also commended was Barney feeling scared and unsure, but I am a wee dram by the their divisional officer McGuinness, a shop steward and branch back full of confidence and made Gary Holz to mark their retirement. official, active for well over 22 years. some wonderful friends. Steve Napier was the full time Barney was a very loyal and committed Thank you. Big thanks to my convenor on site. He had been a rep and activist in Weetabix and always a great tutor, Marci too! convenor for many years and had led the support to the official overseeing the branch committee in very challenging branch. ChriSTine Page times, due mainly to a change in Well done and thank you. West yorkshire Co-op F115 working practices and payments. Throughout his time as both a health gavin dadley and safety rep and convenor, Steve deputy divisional officer, Meat and greet always had the best interests of the midlands division Myself and area organiser Kieran Smyth recently organised a Legal Plus campaign at Vion meats in Northern Ireland. We arranged release for the reps, set up our equipment and fully engaged with the staff. It was very challenging as we were dealing with several different nationalities but the reps were fantastic. Together we recruited over 130 new members, what a result!

raymond neal Usdaw members and their families joined more than 35,000 people for the Manchester March For the Alternative in October. It was organised by the TUC to coincide with the Tory Party conference in the city and ni Tesco retail K226 to demonstrate opposition to the Tory-led Coalition’s economic and social policies. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 | 31 W H A T ’ S H A P P E N I N G O N Y O U R Journey to Work

Workers, in particular women, are feeling vulnerable on their journeys to and from work. Usdaw wants to ensure that members feel safe inside and outside of work. Dark car parks, bushes and trees near the staff entrance, missing the last bus home can all make women feel less safe. If you are worried about these or any other issues concerning your or your colleagues’ journeys to work, we can help. We’ve created a few simple, easy to use campaign materials:

What’s happening on your journey to work? A5 Leaflet for members Give this to your colleagues so they know Usdaw is working on the issue What’s happening on your journey to work? A4 Poster Put this up on your union noticeboard What’s happening on your journey to work? Survey Form Ask your colleagues to fill out the form so you are aware of any problems Safe journey to work A5 Leaflet for Reps Look at this leaflet for ideas of how to help members who are worried

Visit www.usdaw.org.uk/safejourney to download the campaign materials and find out more about our Safe Journeys Campaign. Alternatively you can phone 0161 224 2804 or use the form below to place an order. I would like to order the following: Qty What’s happening on your journey to work? A5 Leaflet for members (SJ001) What’s happening on your journey to work? A4 Poster (SJ002) What’s happening on your journey to work? Survey Form (SJ003) Safe journey to work A5 Leaflet for Reps (SJ004) Name: Delivery Address: Postcode: Branch: Mobile No: Email: Please return this form to The Stationery Department, Usdaw, 188 Wilmslow Road, Manchester M14 6LJ. PUB NWK 1111