Learn with UNITE EDITION 3

learn WITH UNITE EDITION 3 www.learnwithunite.org

learning groWing Winning Foreword

! Hello… our lifelong LEARNING VISION ith this third edition of Learn with Unite, you can see how what began as a one- Unite’s lifelong learning vision and W off two years ago has now grown into our strategy for growth a regular publication that captures our successes n increase the life chances of its members in the across the regions including Scotland and Wales workplace and the community using lifelong learning and our lifelong learning project in Northern HURD/REPORTDIGITAL.CO.UK JESS n guarantee the high standard and quality of Ireland. And we can detect some patterns all its fl exible learning opportunities developing in this crucial area of our work. n use lifelong learning to develop its members One, there is a realisation that Unite so that they will be able to reach their full membership is not just for when you face potential within the Unite organisation diffi culties at work (although we can also n bring fl exible learning opportunities help in those circumstances, of course – see into the heart of communities below). Lifelong learning opportunities are Director of Education Jim Mowatt n be the most progressive trade union organisation an integral membership benefi t and in turn (left) with Head of Lifelong that will be able to create sustainable and encourage new members and aid retention. Learning Kenny Barron innovative alternative education models Two, employers are increasingly acknowledging n use lifelong learning to enhance ongoing the efforts of our learning reps, such as the Five, we are very successful in supporting employment opportunities to its members South-West employer in this edition pointing members whose jobs are under threat. When through the member retention strategy to a reduction of sickness absence since the we started to collect that data in retrospect n measure the success of lifelong learning through its introduction of ULR-led workplace learning. recently, we discovered that Learn with Unite activities delivered within its strategy for growth. The 24 new learning agreements within the and our ULRs had supported 9,000 workers English regions since April 2014 have not only at risk of redundancy within the English cemented the partnerships with those employers regions alone since April 2012 – and we are but also ensured that ULRs and branches are still counting! Many of those workers were Unite would like to take this opportunity to make the unionlearn team aware of our appreciation for the continued support of central to the decision-making processes. provided with new CVs, job-hunting skills the Union Learning Fund, without which we could not have Three, in many workplaces, our ULRs are and additional vocational qualifi cations that undertaken the projects presented in this publication. working with common purpose alongside their often helped them secure new jobs. counterparts from other recognised unions. Six, although we remain strong through Once again special thanks to our brothers in London & Eastern Considering the struggles faced during the last collectivist organising, having 1.4 million Region stores for their work producing drafts for proofreading. fi ve years, the learning steering groups and members does not mean that we have to The picture shows the London & Eastern Region committees within large multi-union employers lose sight of the needs of our individual banner on display at Ron Todd House. provide a suitable template from which the members! Our ULRs are very well placed to industrial structures might draw some inspiration! provide one-to-one support where required, Four, migrant workers are increasingly as the Northern Ireland piece proves. Design & print: design-mill.co.uk engaging with our learning offer and joining I hope you enjoy Edition 3 and trust Editors: Martin Moriarty and Brian Davis (for Unite) Unite as a result. This is, without doubt, being it will prove a useful tool within your Front cover photographs: Unite learners Beata Babska (main encouraged by our unique ESOL opportunity workplace or community. n picture), Mateusz Chojnicki (inset, middle) and Justyna Wisniewska and is also opening a door to the recruitment (inset, right) at Argos Warehouse in Barton, Staffordshire, by Roy Peters; Jim Mowatt and Jariya Sarathana at DHL Iceland by Brian Davis of young members, which is essential to the vitality and future prosperity of our union. Director of Education

2 LEARN WITH UNITE 2015 LEARN WITH UNITE 2015 3 Kirklees Council Works Convenor Lyall Singleton (far left) celebrates the new learning agreement with ULRs (back row, from left) Richard Gilbert, North East, Yorkshire David Marlow and Sue Faulkner, alongside Director and Humberside of Transformation Sue Redfern (front row, centre), flanked by Unite Learning Organiser Gill Campbell and Regional Learning Manager Gill Pearson

Promoting releasing staff to enrol on courses that would help YOU“ learning to SAY them improve their English, maths and computer skills. working people “The key major heads of service are fully has been at the heart on board and the council has appointed managers to be service champions by using of the trade union all the information we send them to facilitate all movement from its relevant learning needs,” Richard explains. early pioneering days” Given the diverse nature of the local authority workforce, the group has prioritised Mohammad Taj, TUC President

ALL PHOTOGRAPHS: ID•8 PHOTOGRAPHY/MARK HARVEY encouraging the benefi ts of continued joint working with all the unions at the council. autumn using a training room in the building Richard currently chairs the joint steering boosting skills services department, where Richard works. group, which meets every six weeks to oversee And since the council offered its own in-house the learning programme. “There is a really good training system to ULRs, the reps have been team spirit now: everyone has an equal say, FOR COUNCIL WORKERS instrumental in keeping courses full, with two basic ICT whether you’re a manager or a rep,” he says. courses booked to date and full access to a further Ruth Redfern, who is director of transformation two before the end of the 2013/14 fi nancial year. and change at the authority, says the council is very The Unite branch at Kirklees The success of the programme has attracted high- proud of its work with the unions on Functional Skills. Council is leading a multi-union profi le support from senior trade unionists: at the “The initiative was launched in recognition of learning programme to improve fi rst anniversary celebrations of the original learning the importance of these skills both at home and agreement in June 2014, the then TUC President (and at work, the stigma that can be attached to it, workers’ Functional Skills with the Unite member) Mohammad Taj spoke of the union and the need to inspire and motivate individuals full support of senior management movement’s commitment to learning and development. who may have been put off from learning at the West Yorkshire authority. “Promoting learning to working people has because of their previous experience at school been at the heart of the trade union movement or perhaps because they have not undertaken from its early pioneering days and continues any formal learning for a long time,” Ruth says. nions and managers at Kirklees today through the work of ULRs, who act as “I see lots of benefi ts for the council through the Council signed their fi rst learning evangelists for learning and training among special role union learning representatives (ULRs) are Uagreement during Adult Learners’ their colleagues and workmates,” he said. playing to encourage employees to come forward Week in May 2013, and launched a revised “Higher skills and training mean improved to develop their English and maths skills: we are and enhanced agreement that included facility productivity and performance, better morale and a benefi ting from the ULRs’ role as ambassadors for time for learning reps in December 2014. workforce that can adapt to new work processes: learning and training among their colleagues.” Since the original agreement, Unite (in partnership these benefi ts transfer to their home life as well.’’ In common with local authorities across the country, with GMB and UNISON) has been working with local Senior politicians have also lent support: Kirklees faces challenging times in the immediate provider Kirklees College, which has delivered courses addressing the Association of Colleges (AoC) national future – but the council is responding by supporting in college and onsite at times to suit union members. conference in November 2014, the then Business the Unite-led programme of workplace learning in “Because of the shift patterns many of our Secretary Vince Cable specifi cally singled out order to demonstrate that it not only values its staff learners work, the college has made a commitment Kirklees College for outstanding work in adult and but aims to motivate and empower them, Ruth says. to come in and work around our timetables when community learning (clarifying afterwards that this “We want to get the best from them as an we get the numbers for a course,” explains lead was partly in recognition of its work at the council). organisation and at the same time to get the Unite learning rep (ULR) Richard Gilbert. After the original agreement was signed two best for them as individuals: for some it starts After using a mix of college and council venues for years ago, the steering group programmed a series with developing their essential ‘life’ skills and its four English courses in 2014, the project started of awareness days to promote the agreement to I am pleased to say the unions in Kirklees are two maths courses and another English course in the managers in order to demonstrate the benefi ts of playing a big part in this,” she says. n

4 LEARN WITH UNITE 2015 LEARN WITH UNITE 2015 5 Unite has established itself as the main player in union-led learning within the north-west region of North West NHS Property Services. Left: ULRs Monika Rostkowska and Jon Wood (standing) are delivering new learning opportunities for NHS Property Services staff in the North-West, thanks to the national agreement signed in 2013 by Unite Health National Officer Barrie Brown (pictured right)

even though he had never been in a union in his life, he was so impressed with our work that he decided to join Unite,” Mike says. In Oldham, ULRs Shabana Kosser and Ruth Brankin are currently creating a new union learning room by refurbishing a small offi ce in the Integrated Care Centre (ICC), the central health, well-being and social care development facility that employs around 500 staff. “Once Shabana and Ruth have set up the learning suite at the ICC Oldham, we aim to launch it with an open day – and use it to promote our union,” Mike says. When 150 non-unionised domestic staff

from a Manchester agency were TUPE- SERVICES PROPERTY NHS transferred into NHSPS late last year, Mike and the team saw another great opportunity to Once again, the learning need is clear establish Unite as the key learning union. within a group that includes so many migrant leaDing on learning All eight reps plus Learning Organiser Steve workers: around two-thirds of the new staff Hewitt attended three staff consultations and a full have Functional Skills issues and at least half of induction day held at a Manchester hotel, where them have problems understanding English. FOR NHS WORKERS the team distributed Learn With Unite packs and “One thing about migrant workers is that some union merchandise from the Unite stall. they have travelled sometimes three-quarters The team also secured a slot at the end of the of the way around the world to get here to gain hen NHS Property Services (NHSPS) to use the NHS IT system to book annual leave, inductions for Monika and Sue to discuss the qualifi cations and better paid jobs,” says Steve. became the fi rst national NHS organisation record sickness absence and check emails. learning agreement and inform the new staff about Taking the Unite learning message out to the new W to sign a union learning agreement in Manchester-based ULR Monika Rostkowska (who the learning opportunities that were available to staff with the support of the regional learning team September 2013, Unite set about establishing itself left her native Poland to work in the UK 10 years ago) them now they were on the NHSPS payroll. has paid off, Mike says. “As well as raising Unite’s as the go-to union on learning within the regional has further developed the learning offer with the help profi le as the union of choice, we have signed up new part of the facilities management arm of the NHS. of fellow ULRs Shabana Kosser and Jon Wood. members and recruited a workplace rep,” he says. “The starting point was to recruit and develop a Using the IT facilities in the Unite offi ce in Salford, “We could not have been achieved this without team of union learning reps (ULRs) in the Oldham the team has delivered the Basic IT course on the fantastic support of the Learning Organisers, and Manchester area,” explains Unite lead workplace the Learn My Way digital platform twice in recent The course particularly Steve Hewitt,” Mike says. rep Mike Powell, who works as a specialist months, fi rst for caretakers, then for domestic staff. The hard work of the ULRs was recognised in April YOU“ has not only workplace craftsman for NHSPS in Oldham. “The training sessions for caretakers were an SAY when the team was shortlisted in this year’s Health “Then with the agreement of NHS Property amazing success, and the outcome was fantastic: improved Estates & Facilities Management Association awards. Services and Staff Side, we carried out a learning the course has not only improved their life at work by their life at work by Since becoming a ULR in 2014, Monika has been needs assessment in Greater Manchester, where showing them how to book time off and read emails showing them how happy to help people gain new skills. “I was attracted our reps interviewed around 200 members but also made their home lives easier now that they to the ULR role because I really wanted to get of staff about the skills they needed.” can use the internet and shop online,” Monika says. to book time off and involved in learning and development and because Since IT skills was a top priority for many staff, Development of the learning programme has been read emails but also I wanted to support people who are in the same at both basic and advanced levels, Unite learning further helped by Jon Wood securing the support of made their home situation I am, where English is not our fi rst language,” rep Sue Langley set up a mini training suite in his boss, who is the regional training consultant. lives easier” she says. “When learners thank you for showing them a vacant offi ce at Werneth Medical Centre in “Jon’s manager has been an asset to the how to fi nd information online that they could not do Monika Rostkowska Oldham, where she began training staff on how ULRs with his support and guidance and before, it gives you a nice feeling of fulfi lment.” n

6 LEARN WITH UNITE 2015 LEARN WITH UNITE 2015 7 West Midlands

! it’s about One thing leads to another at Carter Retail Claire Benham was not a member of Unite with their homework for the fi rst time. fairness when the union’s regional lifelong learning With her confi dence boosted by completing and education teams arrived at her workplace the course, Claire is keen to move on to deliver a series of training sessions on to the Level 2 ITQ course through the for all equality and dignity at work last year. LearnWithUnite platform, partly But now she not only carries a Unite because it will help her give Helping Argos workers at the retail membership card but is also keen to more support to the one of her fi rm’s West Midlands distribution become a union learning rep at Carter Retail three children who has dyslexia. Equipment, which manufactures refrigerated Since taking the course, hub improve their English, maths display equipment for the retail sector. Claire has not only joined Unite and IT skills is paying off for The dignity at work sessions, delivered but has also volunteered to Unite’s organisation onsite. to all management and staff at Carter’s take on the union learning

ROY PETERS ROY Birmingham headquarters, were followed by rep (ULR) role at Carter’s. a Level 1 ITQ course, which was delivered “I feel I will be able to hen Stuart Webb took on the learning patterns have the opportunity to improve their onsite by the regional lifelong learning team. support and encourage rep role at the Argos distribution and skills, the branch arranges courses onsite around Claire, who was one of 25 learners who my colleagues to take up W logistics site in Barton, Staffordshire, shift changeovers, so workers can study either gained the qualifi cation in 2014, admits learning opportunities even if they are a he believed learning could not only engage existing before they start work or after they fi nish. the ITQ course was far more interesting bit nervous, as I can share my experience members but reach out to people who didn’t yet And as part of an existing learning agreement with the than she expected it be. “I really enjoyed and how I have benefi ted,” she says. carry a Unite card – and he has been proved right. company, Argos gives one hour’s paid release to every learning with my work colleagues in “This is a great example of joined-up “I had been a steward for a long time, but I saw that learner who matches that with an hour of their own time. a relaxed environment,” she says. working between the regional education and union learning had the potential to engage people, For one member, the branch’s commitment to learning Fellow learner Gary Ashmore is now learning teams going into a company together members and non-members, and show them what a has helped them avoid disciplinary issues that were more confi dent sending emails and using to promote equality and then moving on to modern trade union is about these days,” he says. rooted – as it turned out – in undiagnosed dyslexia. the internet, while Rob O’Malley said deliver IT training that greatly benefi ts our Two years later, and he has helped turn “Since the college screening confi rmed they the confi dence he gained on the course members as well as raising the profi le of that idea into reality. “People have embraced had dyslexia, we have put a support plan in means he is able to help his children Unite,” says Learning Organiser Pat Campbell. learning with Unite: learning has helped show place, the company have made adjustments, and them that the union is pro-active in seeking now our member is a lot more confi dent, more fairness and justice for everyone,” he says. involved and more productive,” Stuart reveals. The high level of interest in the learning needs The branch is now looking into providing started as ULRs and have since moved on to become survey Stuart organised immediately after courses in English for Speakers of Other stewards, health and safety or equality reps. becoming a ULR was a sign of things to come. Relations Languages (ESOL) to address the needs of And championing the learning agenda “Most people were keen on English and maths, colleagues from Eastern Europe and Asia. has also played a role in improving industrial YOU“ but there was also a lot of interest in IT: although SAY between the Developing the learning agenda is paying off for relations at the site, Stuart says. we are an automated warehouse and can all use two sides are union organisation onsite, Stuart says. “Membership “We have had some diffi cult times in the past, but IT, people were keen to gain a qualifi cation that as good as they retention on this site has been up and down in the past, of late the talks between management and union are confi rmed what they were capable of doing and but numbers are much more stable now, plus people more productive, the direction we are going in is a lot could move on to the next level,” he says. have ever been – are more aware of who is who in the branch – the more productive, and relations between the union and Once the survey results had been assimilated, and I credit learning popularity of the union has been vastly improved.” management are as good as they have ever been – Stuart invited the local college to come on site with helping make Learning has also helped the branch develop new and I credit learning with helping make that change,” and conduct initial assessments of everyone that change” activists. While there are currently six learning reps he says. “None of this would be possible without interested in taking the courses on offer. in addition to Stuart, two for each shift, another half a strong network of ULRs, learning organisers and Stuart Webb Keen to ensure workers on all three shift dozen activists are familiar with the work since they supportive providers, working together to achieve.” n

8 LEARN WITH UNITE 2015 LEARN WITH UNITE 2015 9 East Midlands

! Harnessing social media skills Retired members in the East Midlands some of the basics are gaining social media skills to help such as sending them spread the Unite message, with and confi rming the support of members of the regional friend requests. learning team and unionlearn. “They all enjoyed “I wanted to build on the IT course we it, and at the end had already done through the union by they said they wanted to learn how to use showing people the importance of social new media, so we organised a full training media like Facebook and Twitter to help session at the Leicester Unite offi ce with fooD Workers Develop us keep in touch with each other and unionlearn tutor Alan Cook,” Gary explains. build our organisation,” explains Mike Nine retired members joined the Leicester McLoughlin, secretary of the retired course in November 2014, and by the end a taste for learning members’ regional coordinating committee. of day they were familiar with individual “So I invited Learning Organiser Facebook pages, closed groups, the Unite’s regional learning team is serving up a creative Gary O’Donnell to deliver a session Messenger app, and how to use Facebook’s solution to meet the need for English language training on why as retired members should tools to communicate with each other. at a Nottingham pizza-making plant. be using social media.” “As a member of Unite myself, delivering Gary delivered a two-hour seminar on courses like this to retired members is the benefi ts of social media, showing the giving something back, and from a personal orkers at The Pizza Factory in Nottingham, always easy to explain, as well as take them through 15 retired member activists how to set up perspective, it’s some of the most enjoyable who stone-bake 1.2 million supermarket the content of the lessons,” Magdalena explains. individual Facebook accounts, and explaining and rewarding work I have done,” Alan says. W and own-brand pizzas every week, From that initial session, six reps (half have got the chance to start on their learning of them ULRs) have volunteered to work journeys, thanks to Unite’s regional learning team. as facilitators at the workplace. With many workers from Asia and Eastern “They are people who have a good would like to help their colleagues express might not want to take part in classes in the future.” Europe, and the company committed to developing understanding of the English language who themselves better,” Magdalena says. And the future is what it’s all about: the aim its workforce, courses in English for Speakers of To continue preparations for the ESOL of the classes is to give migrant workers the Other Languages (ESOL) were a top priority when programme, the Unite team organised a training tools they will need to drive their development Unite Learning Organisers Gary O’Donnell and session in January 2015 for the six facilitators by moving on to Functional Skills courses to Magdalena Janaszek started talking to Unite learning Offering people and six learners to help them get familiar with the further improve their English and maths. reps and the HR department in summer 2014. YOU“ whose fi rst platform and learn good practice to help ESOL “As long as they have enough English to With no government funding for ESOL classes SAY students get the most out of the classes. understand what is being said and what they available, the obvious solution was to train a set of language is not “If you read out the instructions, you cannot are being asked to do, they will have many workers as facilitators who could deliver classes using English something assume that everyone in the class will understand opportunities to educate themselves through Unite the resources available on the LearnWithUnite platform. developed by Unite a task fi rst time: if people don’t understand what or a learning provider like a Further Education (FE) Magda and Gary ran an initial session for a shows that we are is being said, often they will just smile and look college – English is the key,” Magdalena says. group of union activists and a member of the at you with confi dence!” Magdalena says. Delivering the ESOL training will help Unite build its training department in October 2014 to show here to give the best “That’s why it’s good practice to ask each person, strength in the workplace, Gary says. “Engaging people them how the whole platform works, with possible opportunity ‘Do you know what that means?’ or ‘Can you tell me in the workforce whose fi rst language is not English particular attention to its ESOL resources. to working people” what you have to do in this task?’ because if they don’t and offering them something that has been developed “It is a user-friendly platform, but it was very useful to understand, they won’t be able to complete the task, by Unite shows that we are here to give the best Gary O’Donnell be able to show everyone technical issues that are not and then they won’t feel comfortable or confi dent and possible opportunity to working people,” he says. n

10 LEARN WITH UNITE 2015 LEARN WITH UNITE 2015 11 Learning at DHL Enfield Lock is London & Eastern blossoming with the help of (from left) DHL Operations Manager Richard Dannatt and ULR Steve Callear, backed by Learning Organiser Micky Herbert

me to learn English?’” he points out. to workforce development that it has built “And while we have trainers to teach you how to drive a new learning centre not once but twice a forklift truck, we are not qualifi ed to teach you how since courses resumed in March 2014. to use English properly or how to do maths, whereas “The company promised they would build us a new Unite is the ideal partner who can go out and fi nd us learning centre at the front of the building and that the resources we need, which suits us perfectly.” was offi cially opened in October 2014,” says Micky. Unite Learning Organiser Micky Herbert, who “When they had to turn that into a locker room, worked closely with Steve to bring effective they not only built a brand new learning centre that learning back to life at the Enfi eld site, is full of was fi nished in January 2015, but they

ALL PICTURES: BRIAN DAVIS praise for the new management team and its added a new union offi ce as well.” commitment to workplace learning on site. To promote a new raft of courses “The change at the top has made all the difference: that got underway in February 2015, fresH iDeas Deliver the new management team is completely onboard the union organised an open day and supportive, which is fantastic,” Micky says. onsite in December 2014, when it The fi rst set of Functional Skills classes started signed up 132 people for English at DHl icelanD in March 2014, targeted at the predominantly and IT courses, as well as maths Eastern European workers for whom English is and a few for business studies. A positive partnership at DHL Iceland not their fi rst language. With two-hour classes “24.7 Recruitment Services, the in north London has literally brought twice a week onsite, 40 people have completed agency that provides cleaning and learning in from the cold. qualifi cations from entry level up to Level 2. catering workers, is now onboard, “We have great tutors from CONEL: they are which is a major breakthrough, so ten fantastic, they love coming to Enfi eld Lock and they of their staff are currently attending hen Unite shop steward Steve Callear problems both with co-workers and managers. have a great rapport with the learners,” Micky says. our weekly English classes, and decided to focus all his union energy Everything began to change just over a year The feedback from the learners to date has are getting 50 per cent paid release,” Micky says. W on the learning rep role at the DHL ago, when a new management team committed been positive, according to CONEL tutor Malcolm Support for learning does not only come from Iceland site in Enfi eld Lock four years ago, he to working with Unite on the learning agenda Seward. “A lot of the work is done with people who the top: Steve says that his own line manager is knew he was facing a major challenge. took over, and the union began working with have English as a second language and want to very supportive of the learning agenda, and that The learning centre at the back of the north London the experienced and committed trade union improve it for all sorts of reasons,” he explains. is true for everyone in the management chain. site was a cold, windowless space with no internet education department at the College of Haringey, Steve has now got the help of two Polish In fact, one of the current managers is so impressed connection, and only the most dedicated learners were Enfi eld and North-East London (CONEL). Unite members who have signed up as ULRs. that he is determined to help set up a learning centre willing to put up with the less than ideal conditions. New Operations Manager Richard Dannatt “It really makes a difference because they wherever he fi nds himself posted next in the company. And there were further obstacles to widening and his team had seen the benefi ts of an active know how the guys need a bit of pushing For Richard Dannatt, the impact of workplace participation: workplace learning was not a key focus for workplace learning programme on other DHL to carry on sometimes,” Steve says. learning is clear. “A year ago, there were people I the previous management team, and the original learning sites and, having experienced the benefi ts fi rst And the management team is so committed would have struggled to hold a proper conversation provider withdrew in search of more profi table work. hand, they were eager to work with Steve to with because their English wasn’t that good But with close to 40 years’ experience as a union rep, achieve something similar at Enfi eld Lock. and my Polish isn’t that great!” he says. Steve wasn’t going to let any of that get him down. “Learning is such an easy way to give something “But now I can talk to them about their “I was already a steward and a safety rep back to people, and improving people’s maths “I used to feel achievements in the learning centre, and that is a when I became a ULR, but I decided to devote and English always helps both operationally and YOU“ like my feet very powerful thing that helps from an operations SAY myself to the learning centre because that’s from a business point of view,” Richard says. were stuck in point of view and an engagement point of view.” what needed most help,” he recalls. Working with Unite on the learning agenda has And Steve Callear is glad to be working with the The potential was enormous since the need helped create a more successful programme, he says. cement before, but Enfi eld management team to create opportunities onsite was clear: of the 600 staff, including 150 “Reaching out through the union shows that now it’s like I’m on for personal and professional development that agency workers, a huge percentage were from this is a genuine approach, you don’t have ice skates!” the whole site can feel positive about. “I used to Eastern Europe and elsewhere and their lack of that suspicion of what we’re doing, people Steve Callear feel like my feet were stuck in cement before, but ﬂ uent English language skills created communication asking, ‘Why are the managers trying to get now it’s like I’m on ice skates!” Steve says. n

12 LEARN WITH UNITE 2015 LEARN WITH UNITE 2015 13 Unite members at Prudential/Capita are gaining skills thanks to the teamwork by Capita joint senior workplace reps Graeme Hoskin (back, left) and Jan Bastable (front, right) and Prudential senior workplace rep Steve O’Donnell South East (back, right) and ULR Suzelle French

! neW skills Capita staff go the distance Distance learning has proved popular September 2014, and their feedback among staff who work for Capita in was overwhelmingly positive. for tHe Reading, explains Unite senior workplace “People were worried they wouldn’t have rep Jan Bastable. (Capita members enough time to undertake the course in men anD share the same building as Prudential addition to their existing commitments, colleagues after an outsourcing operation so they were really pleased to fi nd that by Prudential several years ago.) they could manage work and home and Women Jan began by enrolling eight members a bit of study as well,” Jan says. (herself included) on Unite’s own equality Jan is hopeful that the initiative will from tHe and diversity course after learning about play its part in helping secure the national the Level 2 certifi cate from Equality, learning agreement with Capita that Unite Diversity & Community Coordinator is currently working hard to achieve. pru Lesley Stevenson at the union’s Like fellow Unite rep Steve national equality conference in 2014. O’Donnell at Prudential, Jan knows Unite members at the Reading “We thought the course would be a good that the learning offer has changed headquarters of fi nancial services place to start, especially because some people’s perceptions of the union.

BRIAN DAVIS of our members haven’t done any formal “Several people have told me that they fi rm Prudential are using distance studying for 20-odd years,” Jan says. now realise the union is not just about learning to help them advance their The branch was proved right. All when they are in trouble or trying to get careers and look after their families. eight who enrolled in the fi rst cohort a pay rise – there’s a lot of stuff out there completed their qualifi cation in that we can do to help them,” Jan says.

nite members at the Reading offi ces Steve O’Donnell, senior workplace rep at Prudential. of fi nancial services fi rm Prudential “What really stimulated a lot of interest were the Uare improving their understanding of courses that were not work-related, such as mental undertaken in people’s own time, using materials and we will be able to say, ‘Talk to these people, they health, mental health and social care issues by health awareness, nutrition and health, management of workbooks sent to them directly by the provider. have done it, learn from their experience’,” he says. taking distance learning Vocationally Related diabetes and end-of-life care: many people are looking “We have offered to facilitate a meeting The second group of Prudential learners includes Qualifi cations (VRQs) through the union. to support their families outside the workplace.” for members on the same course to help members who have opted for some vocational Half a dozen members directly employed by While Prudential gave people paid release to attend them overcome any problems they might qualifi cations, including team leading. “We hope that Prudential are currently undertaking the courses, induction and enrolment, the courses themselves are have returning to learning,” Steve says. will give them an extra string to their bows that will with another dozen due to start later in 2015. In “I know some of the learners stay in touch about allow them to move on in their careers,” Steve says. addition, eight members who work for Capita in the course over email because one of them recently “We know that the world has changed: the same building have already completed Unite’s told me how rewarding it was to put in a lot of work the days of a job for life have gone and many Certifi cate in Equality & Diversity (Level 2) and 10 We used the and share ideas with other people doing the same people have more caring responsibilities have signed up for the VRQ offer (see box, right). YOU“ event to raise course, even if that’s not in a formal meeting.” for family members now,” says Steve. Unite activists in the branch (which organises SAY Steve hopes that the fi rst group will act as “What we are showing to people is that both Prudential and Capita staff) began awareness of informal ambassadors for learning at Prudential Unite is not only there to fi ght battles and deal promoting the union’s learning offfer with an the variety of learning once they have completed their qualifi cations, with disciplinaries, we are here to help enhance event in the building in summer 2014. available to members and the branch is already planning a formal our members’ lives both from a personal and a “We used the event to raise awareness of the variety celebration event that Steve hopes will also help work perspective: and people were generally of learning available to members through Unite, and through Unite” further raise the profi le of learning in the building. unaware that we offered this, so learning has what turned out to be most popular were the free Steve O’Donnell “Some people may have been put off by thinking they opened their eyes to a different idea NVQs, which are delivered by POA Learning,” explains won’t have time, but when this fi rst group gets through about who we are.” n

14 LEARN WITH UNITE 2015 LEARN WITH UNITE 2015 15 South West

“Without the union, I don’t think I would have making positive Without the done this or would have known about what training was available to me,” he says. “Gaining these new YOU“ SAY union, I don’t skills has made me more confi dent and a better progress in plymoutH think I would communicator and I have a better understanding have done this or of people’s needs and expectations.” Union members at Plymouth City Scott Gallagher also took up learning after would have known hearing about the courses on offer through Council (PCC) are gaining new about what training Sam. “I was expelled from school for being a bit workplace learning qualifi cations, was available to me” of a tearaway and never got any qualifi cations thanks to the sterling work of Unite but now that I have grown up a bit, I thought Lucas Wybranec learning rep Sam Quigley and the I would try to improve myself,” he says. multi-union learning agreement Scott started with English Level 1, moved on to Level 2, completed maths and ICT courses and has signed two years ago. internet and get really good offers online,” he recalls. now embarked on a Level 3 management course now Sam knew that many of the very union that he realises he has what it takes to progress. members who would most benefi t from the new “It’s something I would never have thought possible fter unions and management at Plymouth learning opportunities would not sign up if they a year ago, but completing my English and maths has City Council promoted their 2013 learning had to do so in an offi ce away from their own given me the confi dence to have a go,” he says. A agreement with roadshows at the south- work environment they felt comfortable in. Leading the workplace learning programme has west local authority’s six main depots, they decided So he made one-to-one contact with as many not only raised Unite’s profi le at the council but also to launch a pilot scheme in the environmental services individuals as he could himself, personally collecting enabled it to recruit and retain members, Sam says. operation at Prince Rock and in domiciliary care. two-thirds of all the expressions of interest in learning “We have gained new members, and when existing Unite took the lead in negotiations with managers that council staff completed across the authority. members who were on the cusp would ask, ‘What to secure learners would be given paid release to “We were able to demonstrate that if you want has the union done for me?’ we have been able to enable them to take part in Functional Skills courses. people to engage with learning at whatever level, the show them the learning programme,” he says. The fi rst group of six staff completed their way to do it is by having that personal one-to-one Street Services Assistant Director Simon Dale has English Level 1 course in February 2014, while contact so you can overcome objections and deal been behind the initiative since Sam fi rst broached the fi rst ITQ course fi nished three months later in with any concerns on an individual basis,” he says. the idea with him, having witnessed for himself May – a fi rm foundation that was celebrated with Sam’s contribution to the success of the programme the positive effect Functional Skills courses could a civic centre event in June attended by the senior has been massive, according to Unite Learning have in his previous post at Stockton-on-Tees. elected members, followed by two days of events Organiser Nigel Jones. “He has concentrated on the “When Sam fi rst approached me, I thought to further promote learning at the authority. area where he works, which is Streetscene, and he it was a really good initiative: I applaud Unite There are English Level 1 and 2 courses, Maths Level has been absolutely fantastic with getting people for launching this programme and creating 1 and 2 and ITQ Level 1 courses running regularly, into learning – he’s been brilliant,” Nigel says. the capacity to make it happen,” he says. with more than three dozen union members studying, Many of Sam’s co-workers agree. “Sam was Learning has paid off for the authority, he points out. the vast majority of whom are members of Unite. pivotal in getting me on the courses,” says Morale is improving, productivity is improving, and Sam Quigley became a ULR two years ago when 33-year-old Lucas Wybranec, who moved to more people are completing better quality accident his work as a workplace rep revealed that large the UK from Poland a decade ago, with a range and near-miss reports, and sickness absence has

numbers of his colleagues struggled to fi ll in forms JONES NIGEL PHOTOS: ALL of technical qualifi cations from his homeland dropped from 13 days per employee per year to around to, for example, log accidents or near-misses. that are not recognised in this country. eight days, which is the average across the council. “It really shocked me to see that people’s literacy With Sam’s encouragement, he has achieved “We are seeing big improvements, and although and numeracy issues were keeping them from doing his Level 1 English & Maths, Team Leading Level 2 they are not only because of the learning, they 101 things, including fi lling out an application form to and is currently studying for his Level 2 Maths and have been backed up by the learning, so for get another job, or lacked the IT skills to access the has started the Level 3 management course. me it’s a massive positive,” Simon says. n Plymouth council learners (from top) Lucas Wybranec, Scott Gallagher and Dean Barlow

16 LEARN WITH UNITE 2015 LEARN WITH UNITE 2015 17 Wales

! removing barriers Delivering CPD for ambulance workers Hundreds of Welsh ambulance service a year, I know paramedics with 20 years’ staff have been able to easily access high- experience who have never delivered TO DISABLED DEVELOPMENT quality good value continuous professional a baby: it’s those sort of skills that can development (CPD) thanks to the annual need brushing up,” Steve explains. Unite is helping disabled workers, learning and skills days organised by While all ambulance staff are expected trainees and school pupils improve Unite learning rep Steve Hutchinson. to undertake CPD training on their own The fi rst two events, held in October 2013 initiative, Steve points out that admission to their skills by supporting onsite and 2014 at Cardiff City FC stadium, each a conference in London can cost £100, with learning at a new ICT operation in attracted 120 ambulance staff from all over travel and accommodation on top of that. the Rhonnda. Wales, with lectures and presentations on “By contrast, we charged £25 last year crucial skills such as basic life support, because we’re about bringing in quality major trauma and sepsis (when the body’s education at a price people can afford – ver since E-cycle was created through a immune system goes into overdrive). and we give people a certifi cate for every management buyout of the former Remploy “One of our in-house training offi cers lecture and skills station they attend to Ecomputer recycling business in the Rhondda, who attended the fi rst year was raving add to their CPD portfolio,” he says. workplace and community learning has been about the event at training sessions central to the development of the new enterprise. afterwards, and some of the people I Sited in a new premises in Williamstown, work with say they learned a lot from a

Rhondda, E-cycle is an ICT asset management Above: Welsh Deputy Minister for Skills and Technology talk by one of our medical directors about operation, securely erasing data from computers Ken Skates unveils the plaque to celebrate the opening extrication from vehicles,” Steve says. of the learning centre at E-cycle no longer needed by organisations such as Steve also organised a range of skills the Welsh Assembly, the Department for stations to help paramedics brush up skills Work and Pensions (DWP) and the NHS. original business plan when the buyout was they might not have used recently or try The company employs 33 full-time staff, most of going ahead, with the support of the Welsh new equipment they weren’t familiar with. them disabled workers who had been working in Assembly, the Wales TUC and Unite. “While you have some people like similar jobs at the nearby Remploy factory before it Equipped with computers from E-cycle’s own stock myself who have delivered ten babies in was closed in 2013, plus six trainees – fi ve through of recycled IT equipment, paid for by Unite, the learning the Welsh Assembly programmes Job Growth Wales centre is run by Unite learning rep Alison Hunter, who and Bridging The Gap and one from a local school. has 100 per cent facility time to carry out her role. The onsite learning centre was part of the “I had worked on production for years but I was I’m not ashamed to tell anyone now,” she says. who do not want to take the academic route. bored and I was thinking to myself, ‘There must The centre delivers work-related courses “Alison has this brilliant rapport with all the trainees, be something else I could do’,” she recalls. for all staff that covers display screen and she is very honest and open with everyone: Before, I would “When Learning and Development Manager equipment, site security, waste management, she is able to tell people areas where they have YOU“ Denise Taylor fi rst approached me about manual handling and health and safety. weaknesses without crucifying them!” Denise says. SAY try anything to get out of the ULR role, I wasn’t sure I could do it, but In addition, the centre is putting together a As well as helping put together the development then I thought I would give it a go.” development programme for workers who have programme for her colleagues, Alison is also on saying I had dyslexia, Alison initially doubted herself because of ﬂ agged up their aspirations to progress through the a development programme of her own, as she but now I just come her dyslexia. But the support of her colleagues personal development plan (PDP) reviews Alison would like to take over Denise’s role eventually – a out and say it: I’m and the experience of completing the TUC’s and Denise conducted at the end of 2014. process Denise is helping by being her mentor. not ashamed to tell ULR course with a group of learning reps The centre also offers training to local disabled “Alison was an operator who has learned a with disabilities made all the difference. students, while Alison and Denise are also lot since she became the learning rep for the anyone now” “Before, I would try anything to get out of saying currently putting together a plan to offer work site and now I am supporting her to help bring Alison Hunter I had dyslexia, but now I just come out and say it: experience and training to local school pupils her to the next level,” Denise says. n

18 LEARN WITH UNITE 2015 LEARN WITH UNITE 2015 19 Scotland

Unite has helped 18 engineering apprentices at Our time is just Scotland’s biggest bus fi rm ! gain vital skills they will be able starting to use throughout their careers. Eleven learners from Glasgow Regeneration Agency have gained professionally recognised qualifi cations in counselling skills they could never have achieved without Helping apprentices the backing and fi nancial support of Unite. to investigate skills, knowledge, self- “I have always been interested in awareness and ethics in a counselling counselling and felt it was something context, and develops good inter-personal ENHANCE THEIR SKILLS I would like to study but I could never and communication skills based on active afford it, so when I got the chance listening and verbal and non-verbal skills. nite has successfully enhanced the engineering though Unite, I was both excited and The students also had the opportunity to Apprenticeships at bus fi rm First Glasgow by very grateful,” says Shirley Moore. develop their skills in experiential learning, Uorganising two fully accredited courses with “I have learned so many new skills through through practising in small groups. the help of fi nancial backing from the Scottish Union doing this course, which has helped me a They took their fi rst of the four 12- Learning Fund and the full support of the company itself. great deal in my current role at work, and I week modules in 2013, completing The two courses, which the apprentices cannot thank our rep Jennifer Calder enough a year later in November 2014. themselves helped choose, covered Portable for all her hard work in organising it!” “I have wanted to do the COSCA Appliance Testing (PAT) and European Computing Unite secured the funding from Counselling Skills Certifi cate for some Driving Licence (ECDL) Essentials, giving the Scottish Union Learning for the 11 time but have never been able to afford young people involved vital transferable skills learners to undertake the Counselling the fees,” says Jennifer Calder. that will help them throughout their career. Skills Course provided by COSCA, “This course has improved my ability First Glasgow gave the 18 apprentices paid the professional body for counselling to do my own job well and has opened release to attend the courses, which were both and psychotherapy in Scotland. up the potential for further personal delivered in workplace learning centres – PAT The course gives students the chance and career development or change.” testing by West of Scotland College and ECDL by Learn With Unite Scotland tutors. The apprentices themselves are very “It was good to have accredited IT skills recognised appreciative of the chance to develop themselves by the company – the ECDL course was easy to follow “This arrangement benefi ts the apprentices both Union Learning Organiser Pat Egan says even further with the help of the union. and I would like to thank the tutor and Unite for giving individually and collectively, secures a higher skilled the pilot has proved so successful that the me this opportunity,” says apprentice Kieran McSkeane. workforce for First Glasgow, and is an excellent union is looking into adapting the model for Paul Hart was equally positive about the PAT example of the added value trade unions bring other workplaces and other sectors. course. “This course will benefi t my future: with this by working constructively with employers and There are four key elements that must be This benefi ts qualifi cation, I hope to keep learning about new partners on the learning and skills agenda,” says included in similar schemes elsewhere, he says: YOU“ the apprentices appliances and learn more in the future,” he says. Lifelong Learning Manager Sylvia O’Grady. n courses must be accredited to at least SAY Unite learning rep Jimmy Lillis is proud of the hard- Unite secured total commitment to the initiative from national industry recognised standards; both individually working apprentices for completing the additional First Glasow, which recognised the benefi ts of bringing n courses must enhance transferrable skills; and collectively and courses. “On-going training within the learning centre the skills into the company through its apprentices. n apprentices should be involved in secures a higher at Caledonia Depot Glasgow has now given our ”I believe this has given them the opportunity the decision-making process; apprentices another string to their bow,” he says. to gain useful and transferable skills to enhance n employers must release apprentices for courses. skilled workforce Scottish Union Learning, which funded the courses, their trade abilities, which benefi ts not only them “As well as adding value to the learning, it helps for First Glasgow” is impressed with the way Unite has made the most but helps First Glasgow build its reputation of to develop and instil an on-going learning culture

Sylvia O’Grady of the resources available to provide enhanced engineering excellence,” says First Glasgow from the outset of what we hope is a long and opportunities for First Glasgow apprentices. Fleet Support Engineer Wendy Findlay. successful career for our apprentices,” Pat says. n

20 LEARN WITH UNITE 2015 LEARN WITH UNITE 2015 21 Unite steward and learning rep Northern Ireland Fred Harper (right) is tackling the challenges of his dyslexia thanks to the support of Unite and NACCO human resources manager William Kerr (left).

The Essential Skills courses in English, maths and ICT have proved to be very popular and useful to hundreds of learners across Northern School was a Ireland as workplaces continues to evolve YOU“ SAY place I dreaded, educationally and technologically, says Blaine not because I Kilgallon, a Unite youth activist who is currently working with the regional learning team. found the work overly “What we have found is more members wanting hard but because I to take part in ICT courses as more work is was frustrated by the being computerised and more employers are moving HR administration online, for example fact I was held back

BLAINE KILGALLON by setting up online forms for employees by my problem”

to book annual leave,” Blaine says. ULR Fred Harper “Members with few computer skills see Delivering skills this as a daunting prospect until Unite ICT classes have helped them grasp the basics members need and overcome this technological barrier.” In addition to helping groups of members, and support they have given me,” he says. Unite’s learning programmes in Northern Ireland Unite’s learning team is also well-equipped to help “My tutor Peter has not only given me tools to help, are helping members gain skills, qualifications individual members who need one-to-one support – but self-belief: he encouraged me to put some of my and confidence that benefit members and members like shop steward and ULR Fred Harper, ideas and my passions for swimming into writing, who works for Forklift truck manufacturer NACCO which has been a success as I’ve helped people to employers alike. Materials Handling in Portadown, Co. Armagh. get teaching and coaching awards in this sport.” Fred has struggled throughout adult life because Fred is also very happy that HR Manager of his dyslexia, the learning difference that affects the William Kerr has supported him throughout, nite’s workplace learning programme recruiting members but also for developing way people process, store and recall information, but providing company time and resources to enable is helping hundreds of learners union learning reps,” Lynn says. which was only diagnosed recently, thanks to Unite. the programme to be delivered onsite. Uacross Northern Ireland gain new Ryobi is one of many examples across Northern Fred believes the education system let down “The great support from William Kerr skills and qualifications they would not have Ireland where learning and organising have worked a generation of pupils whose dyslexia was and the company as a whole made Fred’s been able to access through other routes. hand in hand to enable Unite to deliver for the undetected at the time. programme easy to run,” says Blaine. At the Carrickfergus, Co. Antrim, site of Ryobi membership and the organisations where they work. “School was a place I dreaded, not because I found Like many people with dyslexia, Fred says he Aluminium Casting, where Unite members the work overly hard but because I was frustrated by has often tried to slip under the radar and not push produce complex aluminium casting products for the fact I was held back by my problem,” he says. himself to the front because of the stigma attached the automotive industry, dozens of learners have The legacy has meant he has struggled with to dyslexia and the issues it can create for people. developed new ICT skills thanks to the union. reading, spelling and handwriting his whole adult life. Yet the condition often involves many positives, he “Union learning really appealed to the workers Learning “Spelling has been a nightmare for me and it comes points out. “We are good at solving problems: we have YOU“ at Ryobi as many didn’t have the opportunities SAY is a great out not the way it is in your head: letters can change to be – that’s what we’ve had to do to get through life.” to develop such skills inside or outside of the tool not just shape and words go missing and the amount of Fred’s experience is not uncommon, workplace,” says Unite Organiser Lynn Doran, for recruiting concentration needed to read can leave you drained.” and one that will be familiar to many Unite who worked with members and reps onsite. But everything began to change for Fred after he members who have – or know someone The appeal of developing these new skills members but also talked to Unite Learning Organiser Clare Caulfield, who who has – dyslexia, says Clare Caulfield. through LearnWithUnite was part of the reason for developing union arranged a dyslexia assessment and set him up with a “However, the education and support Unite can the union has been so successful in engaging learning reps” tutor to develop a programme to tackle his difficulties. provide to help members with learning differences and organising the workers in Ryobi, she says. “To get this help has opened a new door breaks down barriers and obstacles and instils Lynn Doran “Learning is a great tool not just for for me: I can’t thank Unite enough for the help confidence and self-worth,” she says. n

22 LEARN WITH UNITE 2015 LEARN WITH UNITE 2015 23 Apprenticeships

those events was that we needed to bring back Apprenticeships both in printing and in paper.” The timing of those events couldn’t have been In March 2015, Unite launched better, since the government had recently launched a new campaign to encourage its Trailblazer programme to help groups of employers more young women into science and other stakeholders work together to update and and engineering Apprenticeships improve Apprenticeship frameworks in their sectors. with the publication of a new booklet highlighting the positive “While the programme is employer-led, Unite experiences of young women was the only organisation that could have got members at companies such as all the big employers together in one room, and Brush, BMW and Unilever. Download it was easier for us to get them together again the booklet at: bit.ly/1O5geB2

JOHN HARRIS/REPORTDIGITAL.CO.UK having held those two joint events about the future of the industry already,” Louisa says. “And we didn’t only get people from HR or blaZing a trail for training departments, we had CEOs and operations In the print sector, the 20-strong consortium is directors, people who could make decisions about led by Yorkshire-based printing fi rm Ryedale, and how we would work together on this issue.” includes major players such as security printers De print anD paper To ensure the new Apprenticeship standards La Rue, news groups Trinity Mirror and the Guardian, deliver high-quality training with decent rates and packaging companies Pulse Flexible and Multi apprenticesHips of pay, Unite persuaded all the employers to Packaging Solutions. Alongside Unite and Proskills, sign up to a set of principles covering collective the group is also supported by The Printing Charity Unite’s Graphical, Paper, Media and IT sector is building two bargaining, job security and apprentice rights. (which is going to help apprentice members of training-based partnerships with employers to begin renewing “We had a very robust Apprenticeship scheme Unite with education grants) and the employers’ Apprenticeships in the paper and printing sectors. until about 1990, so it was a question of asking the federation British Printing Industry Federation (BPIF). employers, ‘Do you want to get back what you used Getting the BPIF and Unite to work once again to have before now?’ and they were all really keen on a joint project has been a very positive step to do it – and to do it together so they wouldn’t since the federation had originally submitted its orking with key employers and the be poaching each other’s trained people, which is own rival bid for Trailblazer funding last year, employers’ federations in both the what has been happening for years,” Louisa says. before the arrival of new Chief Executive Charles Wpaper and print industries, Unite’s In November 2014, Unite and Jarrold a year ago helped change the weather. Graphical, Paper, Media and IT (GPM&IT) sector Caterpillar Peterlee signed the In the paper sector, the development group has co-ordinated successful bids for government unionlearn Apprenticeship Charter, is led by ArjoWiggins, alongside more than which contains key provisions funding to overhaul Apprenticeship standards. 20 employers including De La Rue, Kimberley relating to fair pay, trade union We had a The Department for Business, Innovation Clark and Smurfi tt Kappa, plus Unite, the involvement in the programme YOU“ very robust and Skills (BIS) announced in March 2105 that and commitments to ensure young SAY Confederation of Paper Industries (CPI) and it was fi nancing the two projects as part of its people receive high-quality training. Apprenticeship the Proskills Sector Skills Council (SSC). Trailblazer programme, the employer-led scheme More details: bit.ly/1EqbuOd scheme until about Unite’s lifelong learning team, which is represented to reform Apprenticeship standards across 1990, so we asked on both steering committees, will be helping Louisa the country’s various industrial sectors. and Tim develop the training modules and source When London and Eastern Regional Offi cer Louisa the employers, ‘Do training providers, and the union intends to use Bull, working with South East Regional Offi cer Tim you want to get back the Trailblazer momentum to sign more learning Elliott, fi rst set about co-ordinating united bids “We had run two high-level events with key what you used to agreements with the companies involved. n for the Trailblazer funding a year ago, it helped employers both in the UK and Europe looking at that Unite had already been talking to employers what jobs and skills would look like in the sectors have before?’” about the future skills needs of the industries. by 2020,” Louisa explains. “And what came out of Louisa Bull

24 LEARN WITH UNITE 2015 LEARN WITH UNITE 2015 25 Resources

Your LEARN WITH UNITE team Useful resources

The team comprises the Head of Lifelong Learning, Regional Improving skills Sector Skills Councils & Bodies (Directory) Learning Managers, learning organisers and national coordinators. Alison Independent, employer-led organisations that Free online courses help shape the learning opportunities available www.alison.com Apprenticeships to Unite members. Apprenticeships http://fiss.org/sector-skils-council/ Head of Lifelong Learning London and Eastern/South East 0800 015 0400 www.gov.uk/further-education- directory-of-sscs/ Kenny Barron Dean Briody skills/apprenticeships Campaigning organisations 020 7611 2626 020 7611 2620 British Dyslexia Association Campaign for Learning Runs Learning At Work Week [email protected] [email protected] Support and resources for dyslexic learners www.bdadyslexia.org.uk www.campaign-for-learning.org.uk Learn My Way National Institute for Adult Continuing Education ULF National Project Administrators National Coordinators for the Free online digital skills Runs annual Adult Learners’ Festival Deana Vango English regions www.learnmyway.com www.niace.org.uk 020 7611 2626 Equality, Diversity and Community Learn with Unite Equality and diversity [email protected] Coordinator Your union’s own learning portal with a range Equality & Diversity Forum Network of national organisation committed to Ola Badiru Lesley Stevenson of resources and courses including ESOL www.learnwithunite.org progressing equalities 020 3617 2714 07718 666590 Move On www.edf.org.uk [email protected] [email protected] Campaign to improve adult literacy and numeracy Equality and Human Rights Commission Data Collection and Reporting Coordinator www.move-on.org.uk Responsible for promoting equality and human rights, Your Regional Learning Managers Brian Davis National Extension College producing codes of practice and giving advice North West Tel: 020 3617 2715 10% discount for union members on distance www.equalityhumanrights.com Higher Education (HE) Jane Broome [email protected] learning opportunities 0800 389 2839 www.nec.ac.uk Birkbeck, University of London 07745511871 IT and Communication Coordinator Quick Reads Union members can claim a 10 per cent discount on [email protected] Jim Ritchie Publishes annual collection of short novels their course fees at London’s only specialist provider North East, Yorkshire and Humberside 0113 236 4885 for emergent adult readers of evening higher education, which runs regular free Gill Pearson [email protected] www.quickreads.org.uk advice and support sessions for prospective students 0113 322 3383 Skills Workshop www.bbk.ac.uk/unions or www.bbk.ac.uk/tryit Whatuni.com [email protected] Your lead contacts in Northern Ireland, Free functional skills resources www.skillsworkshop.org Degree guides, rankings and reviews East Midlands/West Midlands Scotland & Wales Six Book Challenge www.whatuni.com Donna Till Belfast Useful reading initiative for workplaces UCAS 01332 548400 (Pride Park, Derby) Clare Caulfield www.sixbookchallenge.org.uk Useful search tool to find Foundation, undergraduate 0121 553 6051 (West Bromwich) 07918 673749 Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) and postgraduate degree courses [email protected] [email protected] National Careers Service search.ucas.com South West Glasgow Provides IAG on learning, training and work opportunities Openlearn nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk Free online learning resources from the Open Steph Wring Pat Egan 0800 100 900 University 07845 992995 0141 375 7010 Unionlearn www.open.edu/openlearn [email protected] [email protected] Helps ULRs inform, advise and guide their learners Graduate careers advice Cardiff www.unionlearn.org.uk/supportinglearners Download free career planning publications from the Julie Evans Floodlight (Course Search) Association of Graduate Careers Advisory Services (AGCAS) from the OU careers site 029 2002 2759 Covers 40+ UK towns; cities and regions www.floodlight.co.uk www2.open.ac.uk/students/careers [email protected]

26 LEARN WITH UNITE 2015 LEARN WITH UNITE 2015 27 stanD out from tHe croWD Improve your skills through LearnwithUnite

LearnWithUnite is your union’s very own We are developing an English and maths virtual learning platform, designed to help you Functional Skills programme at Levels update and improve a wide range of skills 1 and 2 to support our members. online – and many of the courses are free. All you need is access to a computer and a valid And we offer the Back to Work Support email address and you are good to go. Programme to give you the edge when applying for a new job with the help of a Our on-line basics course will help any fi rst- new CV, covering letter and much time users fi nd their way around the internet and email, and then you can move on to fully more besides. accredited ICT qualifi cations at Levels 1, 2 and 3. Getting and keeping a job is all about gaining Our programme for English for Speakers of Other and maintaining the right skills these days. Languages (ESOL) is free to Unite members and Stay ahead of the game with the help of covers key issues at work and in the community. your union’s virtual learning platform.