The bimonthly magazine for Usdaw activists|www.usdaw.org.uk|January/February 2014

WORLD CLASS REPS

n Activist-in-depth n Black Members’ n Spotlight Day 2014 Paul Young Weekend Workshop March 19 will be the focus Tesco rep from Activists from for the Supporting the North Eastern the black and Parents & Carers division on his Asian campaign union involvement communities page 15 and busy met up in working life Manchester page 19 page 20 GENERAL NETWORK | WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK SECRETARY Fairness battle General secretary John Hannett’s comment

sdaw’s fight for justice for former Woolworths and Ethel Austin staff, who missed out on a U protective award because they worked in small stores, faces a further wait after the Appeal Court referred the case to the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU), for its view of the legal position. Our members lost out because the interpretation of the law at the time of the job losses considered each store a ‘separate establishment’ and where a store had fewer than 20 staff they were excluded from the protective award payment, which compensates workers who have not been properly consulted prior to losing their job. In both cases the administrators failed to consult. And while Usdaw won compensation for staff in the bigger stores others lost out. In May 2013 Usdaw won a landmark legal case to overturn the ‘one establishment’ ruling only for the Coalition to appeal the Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT) decision.

In fact the Government did not even turn up for the EAT hearing and although their appeal was later allowed they

were forced to pay the union’s legal costs. Despite all this, Usdaw is determined to see the fight through to the very end. We are confident of our case, which ❞ is morally and logically robust. It makes no sense that workers in stores of fewer than 20 employees were denied compensation, whereas their colleagues in larger stores did qualify for the award. These were mass redundancy It makes no situations where thousands of workers lost their jobs. How sense that can anyone suggest that the redundancies should be treated workers in on a store-by-store basis when the whole company was stores of fewer closing down? than 20 We hope that this referral to the CJEU will ensure that justice can be done for former Woolies and Ethel Austin workers, employees who have now waited more than five years. were denied If you need one example of whose side the Coalition is on compensation when it comes to workers’ rights, you only have to consider this one case to realise the Government is definitely not on your side. ❞ USDAW www.usdaw.org.uk

Network is published HEAD OF MEDIA & PHOTOGRAPHERS ADVERTISING COMMUNICATIONS bimonthly and distributed to Mike Bartlett, Della Batchelor, David Century One Publishing Ltd Mike Glover Usdaw activists. Fleming, Kim Gregory, Brian Hallam, T 01727 893 894 F 01727 893 895 EDITOR Michael Hogan, Mark Howells, Matt Published by: E [email protected] Peter Rees-Farrell Link, Michael Marker, Bill Miller, Dave ADVERTISING MANAGER Usdaw REPORTER Moss, Martin O’Neill, Helen Pugh, Phil David Murray T 01727 739 182 188 Wilmslow Road Mairead Bradley Scott, Kat Tonks, Stewart Turkington, Manchester M14 6LJ EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Richard Walker, and Alan Williams. E d.murray@centuryone T 0161 224 2804 Sarah Bailey For circulation enquiries contact your publishing.ltd.uk divisional office. Paper is sourced F 0161 257 2566 OTHER CONTRIBUTORS from sustainable forests. © Usdaw 2014 E [email protected] Jo Bird, Ruth Cross, Tony Larkin and Reproduction in whole or part by any means PRINTED BY: Buxton Press without written permission of the publisher is strictly W www.usdaw.org.uk Doug Russell. forbidden. The publisher accepts no responsibility for errors, omissions or the consequences thereof.

02 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK | NETWORK JAN/FEB CONTENTS

WINNINGWINNING REPSREPS NATIONAL AWARDS NIGHT CELEBRATION Activists were the stars of the show at the annual Organising Awards Night held at a top Manchester hotel in January. Reps from across the UK competed for the eight national awards for outstanding service to the union. Network was there too . . . Pages 10–13

■■■ 04 In the news ■■■ 20 Black Members’ Weekend Workshop

The recession continues to hammer the majority of the population Problem solving and representing members was the focus for this who look set to miss out on the so-called recovery. year’s annual get-together, which has acted as a major springboard Meanwhile, Usdaw is keen to offer support to foster carers. for black and Asian activists to get more involved in Usdaw.

■■■ 06 Respect Week ■■■ 22 Recruitment and Organising

Encouraging members to report all incidents of abuse and violence Thanks to hard-working reps Usdaw continues to be the fastest was a major theme for this year’s Freedom From Fear Respect growing union in the UK all this despite the difficulties facing the Week as well as asking customers to ‘Keep Your Cool’. sectors the union organises.

■■■ 08 John Hannett interview ■■■ 30 European Union Elections May 2014

General secretary John Hannett reflects on a difficult 2013 and Ahead of the forthcoming May election, leader of the European considers the challenges ahead in 2014 for the union, our members Parliamentary Labour Group MEP Glenis Wilmott asks ‘What Has and our reps. the European Union ever done for you?’.

■■■ 15 Parents & Carers Spotlight Day

Helping members with caring responsibilities know their rights and who may have ‘too much on their plate’ is the focus for this year’s Spotlight Day on March 19. Regulars

Member services ■■■ 19 Activist-in-depth 14 Find out if Usdaw can save you money Staff news North Eastern division’s Paul Young talks to Network about why he 26 The latest appointments and promotions became a rep and how his life has changed since getting involved at 27 Letters What reps are saying about work and life his Tesco store. 28 Health and safety Keep informed on all the safety issues

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 | 03 NEWS NETWORK | WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK

IN BRIEF MAJORITY TO MISS OUT ON RECOVERY

Just two per cent of voters say they have already benefitted from the economic recovery and only a further n Inflation rates 18 per cent expect to benefit from the move up and down recovery during 2014, according to a new TUC-commissioned YouGov poll The UK’s inflation rate, as published in early January. measured by the Retail A big majority expect the living Prices Index, which standards crisis to continue in the new includes housing costs, year. rose to 2.7 per cent from Only one in eight (12 per cent) of 2.6 per cent in November. those in work expect their pay to at least While the Consumer Prices keep up with the cost of living, the same Index, which excludes proportion who report that their pay at housing costs, fell to two least kept up with the cost of living services have yet to in real terms - a loss of per cent in December, during 2013. happen, but voters do not £30.30 in the pay packets down from 2.1 per cent the In addition voters do not back the appreciate the scale of the of employees working a month before. Cheaper Coalition’s plans for a permanently cuts to come. 40-hour week, according food explains the slight fall. smaller state with more than half (56 per to research published by However, the latest inflation cent) wanting to see most or all of the n In the last five years UK the TUC as part of its rates are still well ahead of services that have been cut restored as workers have suffered a Britain Needs a Pay Rise average earnings growth the economy grows. huge squeeze on their campaign. More at: running at around 0.8 per The Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) incomes, with average www.tuc.org.uk cent at present. says that 60 per cent of cuts in public pay falling by 6.3 per cent www.usdaw.org.uk/news 100 cheers for Bill

Usdaw’s longest serving involvement in the trade union member Bill Nicholas, centre, and labour movement entitledA was the guest of honour at a Life Lived Through Bristol’s celebration to mark his 100th Labour Movement– published birthday and 85 years’ by the South West TUC. membership. “Many congratulations to Bill,” The union stalwart is a legend said general secretary John in the South Wales and Western Hannett. “A remarkable man division tracing his involvement who has remained true to his back to 1928 when he joined trade union principles and is an Usdaw’s predecessor union inspiration to all of us. NUDAW. “Bill is hugely respected in the Bill completed his memoirs in division and rightly so. We all 2009 recounting 80 years of wish him well.”

04 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK | NETWORK NEWS

SUPPORT FOR IN BRIEF FOSTER CARERS

Members who have decided to men, women, single, married, become foster carers can call lesbian, gay, straight, parents on Usdaw’s support to juggle or have no parenting their work/life balance and help experience. them cope with any workplace The number of children in n Correction: issues. care has increased for the last ADM expenses If you are a foster carer you six years in a row and so there In the November/ have the right to ask for a is a pressing need for more December Network it was change in your working hours foster carers in the UK. Around incorrectly stated that and to have this request 30,000 more children come delegates’ expenses are seriously considered. You also into care each year. paid by central office. In fact have the right to a reasonable There is currently a shortage it is the individual branches amount of unpaid time-off if of foster carers. Fostering that pay the expenses of there is a sudden or involves caring for a child in their delegates. Apologies unexpected situation involving your own home when they are for the mistake. the child you care for. unable to live with their birth You can find out more about family. allowance to cover the cost of n Violence in retail these rights at: usdaw.org.uk There are many different caring for a child. This varies still rife says report or by ordering the Usdaw types of foster care. Some depending on where you live leaflets Time off For Family children need a foster home for and the age of the child. Emergencies and Flexible just a few days, until they return n To find out more contact Working. to their birth family or move on British Association for Nearly 60,000 children live elsewhere, while others will Adoption and Fostering at with foster families across the need a family to care for them www.baaf.org.uk or email UK. There is no such thing as a for many years. [email protected] or call: 020 typical foster carer, they can be Foster carers get an 7421 2600. The number of shop thefts has hit a nine year high with significant under-reporting Miliband to close agency loophole of incidents to the police, a new report by employers’ Labour leader Ed security in Britain and group the British Retail Miliband has pledged we add high levels of Consortium (BRC) has to clamp down on low skilled migration, revealed. British businesses mostly from within the The survey also showed using cheap foreign EU, some benefit but that there was a trebling of labour by closing the some lose out. incidents of violence, loophole which allows “Unless we act to threats and abuse against companies to change our economy, retail staff, which included a undercut staff by low-skill immigration four-fold increase in legally paying agency risks making the Labour won the next Directive of 2011) – so assaults on shopworkers. workers lower wages. problems of the cost general election in agency workers would Usdaw’s own survey shows Writing in The of living crisis worse 2015, it would amend not be used to that there were over Independenthe said: for those at the sharp the loophole – called undercut directly 110,000 shopworkers “When millions of end. It isn’t prejudiced the Swedish employed staff. assaulted in 2013 and that workers already have to believe that.” Derogation (part of the What do you think? one in four of them did not low pay and poor job He pledged that if Agency Workers [email protected] report the incident. General secretary John Hannett said: “Shop theft is often linked to violence against retail staff and our own survey showed more than 300 staff are assaulted every day across the UK.” More at: www.usdaw.org.uk/news

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 | 05 RESPECT NETWORK | WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK WEEK 2013 REPORT IT – TO SORT Too many violent incidents are not getting reported to employers or the police – that has

eps and activists were out in numbers in R November last year to support Usdaw’s award winning Freedom From Fear Campaign during the annual Respect for Shopworkers Week. Staff were surveyed about incidents of verbal abuse, threats and violent attacks and encouraged to report any incidents. Reps also reminded customers to ‘Keep Your Cool’ and that retail staff are real people who do not deserve to be abused, threatened or assaulted. “Often, shopworkers are expected to enforce the law, whether that is preventing under- 3 4 age sales or detaining shoplifters until the police arrive, at times putting themselves in real danger,” said general secretary John Hannett. “Usdaw is campaigning for a change in the law to provide more severe punishments for those who assault workers serving the public. We are alarmed by some of the lenient sentences given to criminals. We also want members to report all incidents of abuse to their employer and to the police if necessary.”

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10 11 WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK | NETWORK RESPECT WEEK 2013 T IT to change 1 2

On location...

1. Morrisons, Warrington, North West division. 2. Tesco, Callington, Devon, Brett Johnson, South Wales and Western division. 3. Tesco Extra, Doncaster, North Eastern division. 4. Tesco, Banbury, Oxfordshire, Southern division. 5. Sainsbury’s, Hayes, Middlesex, Eastern division. 6. Tesco, North Harbour Portsmouth, Southern division. 7. Tesco Aldershot, Southern division. 8. Co-operative Food Mold, North Wales, North West division. 9. Tesco, Cheltenham, Danny Jovicic, South Wales and Western division 10. Tesco, Stirling, Scotland, 5 Scottish division 11. Scottish Political Committee 12. Tesco Extra Peterborough, Midlands division

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12 For more information visit: www.usdaw.org.uk/fff JOHN NETWORK | WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK HANNETT All to play for General secretary John Hannett answers Network’s questions and reflects on last year, looks forward to 2014 and the forthcoming general election in 2015

Looking back on 2013, another Q tough year for Usdaw members? Yes. We’ve Outside of the witnessed major job workplace, fuel and utility ❝losses on the high street, bills have continued to rise continuing reorganisation and still the Coalition in the transport and persists with its often distribution sector and heartless attack on the massive downward most disadvantaged and pressure on wages. In poorest in society. addition we’ve seen an The introduction of the explosion in the use of so-called bedroom tax and zero hours and short hours the withdrawal of tax contracts not just by small credits if harsher to medium sized firms but regulations were not met, big players like McDonalds, were both unnecessary Sports Direct, Wetherspoons and vindictive, but that’s and many more. the Coalition for you.

The Coalition promised much for Q working people, but after almost four years what has it delivered?

Very little except for people are working plenty of austerity. part-time because they can’t ❝Real wages have been get a full-time job and over falling for over 40 months 600,000 people are on and unemployment temporary contracts remains high particularly because they can’t get a amongst young people and permanent job. In 2015 the those over 50. electorate won’t be fooled More than 1.4 million again.

Joined Usdaw: 1972 Rep: 1973 CV Appointed Area Organiser: 1985 Appointed National Officer: 1990 Elected Deputy General Secretary: 1997 Elected General Secretary: 2004 & re-elected in: 2008 Member of the Labour Party’s NEC from: 1998 to 2005 Member of the Low Pay Commission since 2007 Member of the TUC’s General Council & Executive Committee ACAS Council Member since 2010 WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK | NETWORK JOHN HANNETT

Usdaw continues to buck the trend in the union Keeping in Q movement and is still growing while other unions Q touch with falter. What’s the secret of Usdaw’s success? members is vital, what It’s a combination of number of full-time staff While other unions stood plans do ❝ many things. The key employed to deliver the best still we took a long hard look you have to to it though is our reps who service possible to members. at our methods and decided keep up are well supported, That amount of teamwork to make important changes dedicated and determined to between reps and officials to the way we operated, how with all the stand up for equality and has improved year-on-year we trained our reps and staff changes in fairness. In addition our and I’m confident that will and how we planned for the this area? Academy program remains continue as we insist on future. All of this has paid There has been a the envy of the trade union investing further in reps off. revolution in the movement making existing and staff. We have delivered for our ❝way we communicate as reps better and preparing the Usdaw has also overhauled members during the year individuals and next generation of area the way it works over the because we all work as one organisations and we’ve organisers to step up to the last ten years and we’re now team and while we remain taken a measured challenges. As membership more professional, more united, I’m confident our response to this. We’ve has grown so has the focused and better organised. success will continue. made huge strides recently especially on the digital front, but Campaigns let’s not forget our Q have always members still want to been central see their printed copies to Usdaw, are of arena and Network, there any our award-winning new ones publications on workers’ rights and planned? information on benefits and our legal service. So It’s clear to us the we’re busy developing cost of living will be our electronic ❝a key issue in 2014 and in communications, our the run up to the 2015 Twitter and Facebook general election. Our presence, text surveys have showed messaging and members struggling with personalised e-mails reduced hours, cuts in tax and you can also view credits and other support, arena and Network coupled with huge rises in digitally on our website. the cost of housing, food, Will the Coalition listen to We’re also in the fuel, household bills and Q Usdaw’s and Labour’s process of investing transport. Cost of Living campaign? heavily in a new Our Cost of Living Judging by the last No matter how much the membership system, Campaign in 2014 will be an four years – no. So Government try to talk which will allow us to umbrella campaign ❝ our focus has to be on about a recovery our communicate more including the living wage, returning a Labour members have not seen any easily and more zero hours contracts and government in 2015. The of it and how could they effectively than we do at under employment. Labour Party has begun to after years of falling wages, present. All of these But we shouldn’t forget put forward some welcome rising fuel bills and under- things are important, our existing campaigns policy proposals – employment. but we’re still in the either, which proved very scrapping the bedroom tax, people business and it’s successful last year. freezing energy bills – as it the face-to-face contact Supporting Parents and looks ahead to the general that will continue to Carers Spotlight Day, election. We will be fuel our growth. Having Freedom From Fear and responding to various said that, almost 6,000 Respect Week, Lifelong consultations to ensure members signed up via Learning and Pension that our members’ voices the website last year so Awareness have all given are heard. Our members it’s not an area we can our members essential are more than capable of ignore either. So we’re support and advice, which making their own mixing the best of once again proves the union judgement on the the old with the does make a difference to Coalition’s policies. best of the new. our members’ lives.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 | 09 ORGANISING NETWORK | WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK AWARDS And the winners were..

he eight national when her name was read out Laura McLean. “Activists on Winning this will awards were as the national Equalities the Forum have travelled certainly inspire presented by the award winner. The rep from across Scotland to run senior officials in Yorkshire Next branch was campaign days to spread the me to do even front of a packed audience and reduced to tears. “I’m so word,” she said. “We’ve more first up was the Most proud and so shocked,” she dressed up as penguins for the Promising New Activist said. “There were so many Freedom From Fear Keep Your broke through the language category, which was won by talented reps in the room Cool day, and we always try to barrier at Morrisons in South Wales and Western’s I couldn’t believe I’d won. I’m bring some theatre to our Deeside to double Ceri Davies. never usually lost for words events – it works. membership on-site. “I was “I was very surprised to but I am tonight. You could “Amazing to win when you delighted to have won the win,” said the Sainsbury’s rep have knocked me down with a consider how many talented divisional nomination, but to from Cardiff. “I’ve been a rep feather. I’ve been a rep for 12 reps could have won it. This is win the national award was for two years and I’m always years and this is the best great news for the division absolutely wonderful,” she keen to make sure the moment I’ve had. A special and as soon as we heard said. “I’m a people person and members get hold of all the mention for rep Dolores Facebook was lit up all across I want to ensure they are information they need. That Leeming who has helped me Scotland. A brilliant night.” treated right. It’s all about could be on parental rights or so much, I owe her a lot.” The Team Recruitment and building up trust and respect caring responsibilities or It turned out to be a double Organising Award went to with members. working hours, the list goes on. win for the North Eastern Mid Counties Co-op with “I was very impressed with “I really enjoyed this division when Monika active trio Bernadette Connor, the awards night – very well evening, it’s good to see the Paczkowska won the national Sarah Groom and Michelle organised and professional – reps are appreciated and it’s Union Learning Rep award. Whitehead ‘thrilled’ to be and a great way to recognise good for morale too.” The learning co-ordinator at picking up the award. the reps.” Another Sainsbury’s rep the DHL/Argos Castleford “Winning this will certainly The national Individual Susan Heath from Hayes in depot has been instrumental inspire me to do even more,” Organising award went to Middlesex won the national in providing courses for said Sarah. South Wales and Western’s Health and Safety Rep award. members on-site. “It was very “It’s all about helping the Bally Auluk, who works for “I was absolutely gobsmacked exciting to win, but this award little person without a voice Sainsbury’s in Gloucester. The to win the national award,” is for everyone at our and showing with the union relatively new rep has been said Susan who works on the workplace,” she said. we have a big voice,” said impressed with Usdaw since customer services desk. “A “It was great to be at the Michelle. becoming involved. “I didn’t great occasion and a very event, quite nerve wracking. “We’ve put a lot of hard realise how much depth there friendly event too with reps It’s good to be appreciated.” work in with the management was to the union,” he said. from the other divisions very Winner of the national over the last few years and it’s “The last 18 months have been supportive of each other. Campaigns award was the beginning to pay off,” said a real eye-opener and this “I get a lot of satisfaction Scottish Equalities Bernadette. “We have a massive event just shows how and respect out of being a Forum represented by partnership with the Society much the reps are valued and safety rep. I have a good and I think this award reflects proves that they are the key to working relationship with A great how much we have grown in the union’s growth. management and I enjoy occasion and terms of membership and “I feel honoured to have keeping on top of the day-to- a very friendly influence.” won, but there are many others day issues that crop up.” North West division’s Dawn who could’ve won it too, so The usually talkative Jenny event too Uytendhal won the Individual this is for the team and the Bishop was left ‘speechless’ Recruitment award after she division. A fantastic night.” WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK | NETWORK ORGANISING AWARDS

More pictures at www.usdaw. org.uk /orgawards 2013

North Eastern Division (F) Scottish Division (G)

Standing (from left): Joanne Thomas (divisional officer), Jonathan Lumley, Angela Standing (from left): Stewart Forrest (deputy divisional officer) Lawrence Wason Partington, Paul Young, Helen Etherington, Steve Martin, Pat Fitzgerald (executive (divisional officer), Stewart Walker, Rikki Allen, Allan Wilson, Robert McQuade McLeary, councillor), David Chadwick Taylor (executive councillor) and Cathy Godfrey (deputy John McLean, Isabel Fyfe, Rose Gillespie and Peter Devine (executive councillor). divisional officer). Seated (from left): Monika Paczkowska, Jenny Bishop, Debbie Beavis, Seated (from left): Frank Wilson, Laura McLean, Yvonne Scott, Anne Soloman, Liam Algor, Les Springham and Jackie Gray. Christine Mitchell and Linda MacFarlane.

Southern Division (H) North West Division (K)

Standing (from left): Sue Merrell (divisional officer), Joan Gale, John Barstow (executive Standing (from left): Tony Clare (deputy divisional officer), Liam English, Danielle councillor), Jessica Mathurin, Jeyda Besim, Sherene Nelson-Cruddas, Sujata Patel and McCusker (executive councillor), Mike Aylward (divisional officer), Sean Barnes and Jan Isaac Gidudu. Seated (from left): Peter Millward, Rob Coleman, Sue Prynn (deputy Jervis, Kevin Dolan, Wayne Constable and Jason Carroll. Seated (from left): James Fowler, divisional officer), Amy Murphy (executive councillor), Mark Stevens and Jason Braine. Alan Hopson, Jackie McNeill, Linda Craven (executive councillor), Amanda Bailey-Coll (deputy divisional officer) and Dawn Uytendhal.

National winners (from left): Monika Paczkowska, Bernadette Connor, Sarah Groom, Michelle Whitehead, Laura McLean, Ceri Davies, Jenny Bishop, Bally Auluk, Susan Heath and Dawn Uytendhal. Above top right: John Hannett presents Joan Gale with a voucher for a spa weekend after winning the prize draw. JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014| 13 ORGANISING NETWORK | WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK AWARDS USDAW’S FINEST HO Now in its ninth year the national organising awards celebrates and recognises the achievement

Usdaw Organising Awards 2013

ore than 60 reps Hannett was joined by deputy 20,000 people outside too. were given the general secretary Paddy Lillis, This is a “Everyone is a winner in VIP treatment at president Jeff Broome and great night this room and when you a top TUC assistant general and a fitting consider we had more than Manchester hotel in January at secretary Paul Novak. tribute to our 600 nominations for the 60 the union’s very own ‘Oscars’. “This is a great night and a reps...so a plus places available, you can The activists, nominated by fitting tribute to our reps,” massive thank see how much strength their divisions because of their said John. “If we could fit in-depth the union has. outstanding achievements in everyone into this event we you to all of “If the unions in the TUC 2013, were all honoured and would, but unfortunately we them had grown as much as Usdaw competed for the additional can’t. So a massive ‘thank the TUC would be 8.5m eight national awards up for you’ to the reps who couldn’t strong not 6.5m. That’s why I grabs at the glittering event. be here because it’s down to members in the last nine genuinely believe we have the General secretary, and their hard work that Usdaw years. That’s the equivalent of best activists in the trade master of ceremonies, John has added more than 110,000 a full Wembley stadium with union movement.”

10 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK | NETWORK ORGANISING AWARDS ONOURED s of Usdaw’s army of hard-working reps

Roll of Honour All the divisional nominations with the national winners in gold (divisions in brackets) Individual Organising Union Learning Rep Bally Auluk (A) Jackie Gray (A) South Wales and Western Division (A) Vaishali Patel (C) William Waite (C) Mohammed Yasin (E) Sarah Gee (E) Jonathan Lumley (F) Monika Paczkowska (F) Standing (from left): Terry Brown, Bally Auluk, Jackie Gray, Chris Anderson Dennis John McLean (G) Anne Soloman (G) Stinchcombe (executive councillor), Barbara Wilson (executive councillor) and Douglas Pearce. Seated (from left): Tracy Cannard, Olwen Jones, Nick Ireland (divisional officer), Peter Millward (H) Jason Braine (H) Ceri Davies, Mike Walker (deputy divisional officer) and Nic Cox. Jason Carroll (K) James Fowler (K)

Individual Recruitment Equalities Rep Terry Brown (A) Tracy Cannard (A) Sue Perridge (C) Abu Sultan (C) Lee Challenger (E) Gee Kahlon (E) Jackie Gray (F) Jenny Bishop (F) Christine Mitchell (G) Robert McQuade McLeary (G) Joan Gale (H) Isaac Gidudu (H) Dawn Uytendhal (K) Jan Jervis (K)

Most Promising Health and Safety Rep New Activist Leonard Stow (A) Ceri Davies (A) Susan Heath (C) Izzy Johnson (C) Matt Magee (E) Elizabeth Williams (E) Les Springham (F) Eastern Division (C) Liam Algor (F) Linda MacFarlane (G) Yvonne Scott (G) Mark Stevens (H) Jessica Mathurin (H) Alan Hopson and Standing (from left): Nigel Scully (deputy divisional officer), Richard Bates, Abu Sultan, Sean Barnes (K) Andrew Stott (K) William Waite, Dave McCrossen (divisional officer), Stephen Peaty, Simon Vincent (executive councillor) and John Bond. Seated (from left): Catherine Parr, Barbara Woolford (executive councillor), Susan Heath, Izzy Johnson, Vaishali Patel and Sue Perridge. Campaigns Weston-Super-Mare A216 Branch (A) Tesco Reps Aylesbury (C) Dennis Nash (E) Debbie Beavis (F) Scottish Equalities Forum (G) Rob Coleman and Alexa Clarke (H) Tesco Reps Newtownbreda (K)

Team Recruitment and Organising DHL Reps Bridgewater (A) Tesco Dotcom Reps Enfield (C) Mid counties Co-op Reps (E) Tesco Reps Beverley (F) Tesco Bank Reps Glasgow (G) Tesco Reps Bromley (H) United Biscuits Reps Manchester (K) Midlands Division (E)

Standing (from left): Gavin Dadley (divisional officer), Mohammed Yasin, Lee Challenger, Dave Segnitz, Sarah Gee, Sarah Groom, Gee Kahlon, Barbara McAllister (executive councillor) and Gareth Davies (deputy divisional officer). Seated (from left): Matt Magee, Dennis Nash, Maureen Bowen (executive councillor), Bernadette Connor, Michelle Whitehead and Elizabeth Williams.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 | 11

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Cut out and pin up on your noticeboard Supporting Parents and Carers Spotlight Day

WEDNESDAY 19 MARCH 2014

Many of our members are feeling under pressure at work and at home. “Usdaw members are having to cope with changes to hours, rising food and fuel bills and changes to benefits. When times are tough, people can feel anxious and Too much on your plate? Talk to UUss daw worried. Usdaw wants to encourage members who feel under pressure to talk to the Union. We want members to understand that we can help and Usdaw needs you to get involved make a difference. On Wednesday 19 March 2014 in Spotlight Day. Here’s how... Usdaw is organising a campaign day to encourage members who Below is a list of some of the things Usdaw the campaign and return the signed might be feeling under pressure to reps will be doing to bring Spotlight Day to section to Usdaw. talk to Usdaw. The campaign day is life in their workplace. Talk to your manager about setting up a called a ‘Spotlight Day’. Some of these steps will take five minutes, Spotlight Day campaign stand in your The union has held a Spotlight Day others will take a little longer. workplace. Tick the box on the order form every year for the last seven years. First of all talk to your manager or in your campaign pack telling us that you Our theme this year is ‘Too personnel manager to agree how the are organising a stand and we will send much on your plate? Talk to Spotlight Day campaign could be run in you everything you need including t-shirts, Usdaw.’ your workplace. balloons and ‘giveaways’. We want to make sure that as many Pull out the poster over the page and put Don’t forget you can get in touch with your members as possible see that Usdaw it up on your union noticeboard. area organiser who can advise you about can offer advice and support when Use the leaflets available to theme your how to get involved with the campaign. times are tough. noticeboard (details on page 18). I hope you will decide to get Ask members and non-members to fill in involved on Spotlight Day. I know the survey. This raises awareness of the hundreds of reps find it an enjoyable union’s campaign. Hand out the leaflets and worthwhile way of showing too. You can get extra copies of the members and non-members that survey from the union’s website. Send the Usdaw is not just there for when survey back to the freepost Usdaw things go wrong at work. address listed on it. You can do as much or as little as Ask members and non-members to fill out you like – even if you just put the the ‘postcard’. Tear the postcard in two. campaign poster up on your Usdaw Give one section back to the noticeboard and give out the leaflet, member/non-member you will be helping to reach out to (the contact card) who has members. pledged their support for Thank you for helping make Spotlight Day a success. Usdaw – Campaigning for better rights #TalkToUsdaw

Too much on your plate? Talk to Usdaw

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Helpline: 0845 60 60 640*    ⤴ to view the latest news and website: www.usdaw.org.uk resources from our campaign. email: [email protected] www.usdaw.org.uk/talktousdaw

*Calls charged at local rate Improving workers’ lives – Winning for members

Poster TTU A3 **to scan the code, download a QR reader app from your app store. A charge may be January 2014 Published by Usdaw, 188 Wilmslow Road, Manchester M14 6LJ applied by your network provider. Usdaw – Campaigning for better rights

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Helpline: 0845 60 60 640*    ⤴ to view the latest news and website: www.usdaw.org.uk resources from our campaign. email: [email protected] www.usdaw.org.uk/talktousdaw

*Calls charged at local rate Improving workers’ lives – Winning for members

Poster TTU A3 **to scan the code, download a QR reader app from your app store. A charge may be January 2014 Published by Usdaw, 188 Wilmslow Road, Manchester M14 6LJ applied by your network provider. Key Messages We recommend the following leaflets Here are the five key messages we for your want to get across on Spotlight Day. campaign day: 1 Lots of our members are feeling under pressure – worried about money and making ends meet, Campaign changes to working hours, poster. Pin balancing paid work with caring this up on your union for children and older relatives, noticeboard. rising food and fuel prices. 2013 – Time to Care 2 Members may not realise that ⤸ these are issues the union can help with. Where the problem isn’t a work-related issue, for example debt, we want to use Spotlight Day to let members know that we can signpost them to expert organisations dealing with benefits, mental health, family support etc. Sometimes members leave it until 3 the last minute to talk to their rep by which time they could be facing disciplinary action, unmanageable debt or experiencing stress, anxiety or depression. We want to encourage members to remember 2012 – Need a Helping Hand? to talk to Usdaw sooner rather than later because reps can and do make a difference. Mental Health (lft 401), Where We can help with problems at to go for help (lft

4 ⤸ work. Usdaw Legal Plus is one of 400), Working Carers (lft 343), the great benefits of being an Flexible Working Usdaw member. Usdaw Legal Plus (lft 346). covers accidents and injuries, employment problems, Wills, prosecutions, conveyancing, probate and also legal advice about non-work related matters. Usdaw Legal Plus helps members and their families. Where the

problem isn’t related to work we Talk to Usdaw can signpost members to other 2011 – In the Dark? Postcard – with specialist organisations that can Contact Card. ⤻ help with debt, benefits, mental health and family issues. Use the order We want members to know that we form in your 5 campaign pack understand the pressures they are (arriving soon in under right now. Times are tough the post) to order these and and growing numbers of families other materials are finding juggling work and for your campaign day. home life difficult. When members feel they have too much on their plate and are not sure where to ⤸ turn for help, they might start feeling anxious or depressed. This in turn might impact on their attendance or performance 2010 – Don’t let the Easter at work. Bunny Claim Your money For more information visit www.usdaw.org.uk /talktousdaw WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK | NETWORK IN THE SPOTLIGHT ACTIVIST IN-DEPTH North Eastern division’s Paul Young answers

our questions on his experiences as a rep ~ I started to get active in What do you think of the union The rapport you build up Usdaw because… training courses? with members, earning In 2002 my store, Tesco Scarborough 1, I’ve enjoyed the expert training, and a their trust and respect – was closed down with the loss of special mention to the local trade union around 75 jobs. I was compelled to get learning centre in Hull, which is it’s priceless and an involved so I would know what was undervalued in my opinion. honour to be a rep happening locally and nationally, and ~ being able to make positive changes to What’s surprised you if people’s lives through arbitration, anything about being a rep? FACT FILE & TRIVIA consultation and collective bargaining. I was surprised at how people cope with so many issues that are thrown at FAST FACTS The best thing about being them. Seeing people vulnerable and active in Usdaw is… n Employer Tesco completely trusting you to help them is Helping people. Whether they have really humbling. Occupation Non food stock control n made a silly mistake or are being team leader subjected to abuse. What would be your advice to n Age 36 an Usdaw member thinking The diverse range of issues creates a about becoming a rep? n Lives Beverley challenging environment, coupled with my day job there is rarely time for Definitely give it a go although it’s not n Married to Helen and we have a beautiful boredom. for everyone. Discretion is paramount. daughter Jazmin The rapport you build up with If you don’t know the answer tell them n Usdaw Activist since July 2002 members, earning their trust and the truth and find out and get straight n Union positions held shop steward, respect – it’s priceless and an honour to back to them. Don’t be afraid to learning rep and Tesco forum rep be a rep. It’s a very demanding role but challenge decisions. MY FAVOURITE... a fulfilling one too. If you enjoy helping people, you’ll get a great adrenalin rush by ensuring n TV programme... Sherlock The downside of being a rep? fairness. n Singer... Otis Redding Constantly being asked questions and having to sort out multiple issues. You What law would you introduce n The last film I saw... Disney’s Frozen if you were prime minister? can’t help feeling upset at some of the n The best moment of my life so far...my awful situations our members face, Enforce companies to play a larger role marriage and the birth of my daughter both personally and professionally, you financially within their area and to look n I spend my spare time... doing family wouldn’t be human if you didn’t. after the disadvantaged to help build activities, football, writing and charity However, it strengthens your resolve stronger communities. work for fairness and equality ensuring What one change do you think everybody is treated with dignity and would help improve Usdaw? respect no matter the circumstances. Having virtual online reps available to Have you changed as a person answer queries and offer advice, since you became an activist? especially legal advice, would help take I’ve developed my skills to suit the pressure off the reps, and a different circumstances and it’s helped database of real life scenarios from reps me to relate to everybody no matter about what went well and what didn’t what their background. go so well would be useful.

What are the most important What’s next for you? issues for your members now? More of the same...working with the Network is looking for the next Activist in-Depth, The Ideal Scheduler and the team of reps – Yvonne, Steve, Wendy, email us if you’d like to tell your story Supporting Your Attendance Max, Helen and Donald – to help our ✉ [email protected] policies. members.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 | 19 BLACK MEMBERS’ NETWORK | WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK WEEKEND SUPPORTING MEMBERS A The annual Black Members’ Weekend has been a major springboard to help black and Asian mem

upporting Black Equalities officer Ruth Members at Work Cross said: “These are S was the theme of common but complicated the annual Black issues which often hinge on Members’ Weekend indirect discrimination. The Workshop held in reps put a lot of effort into Manchester late last year. understanding the The popular event, yet complexities and coming up again oversubscribed with a with practical solutions to third of delegates attending these issues.” their first Usdaw get- General secretary John together, looked closely at Hannett said: “It’s the main issues for black important black and Asian and Asian members. members get this chance to Workshop groups, led by come together. the activists themselves, “We know that at many covered a wealth of material union events black members during the three-day event. are in the minority and this Each group was a given a can make it difficult to Black case study featuring an speak up. Usdaw member having “Over the years many Members’ difficulty at work for a black members have told me Weekend reason relating to their race that the workshop is a 2013 or religious belief. unique experience that gives Members discussed the them the confidence to get case study and rehearsed involved in the wider union. the arguments that might be Judging by the growing used to get the best for their number of black and Asian member. They were also activists in our ranks this is asked to anticipate the clearly working.” objections the manager Delegates also heard from might make and how they guest speakers, Parminder could be overcome. Sogi and Peta Curno from The groups then acted out the NHS Dudley Public each scenario and delegates Health Community Health discussed the intricacies of Improvement Team. They Sandy Bahra “I learned that the union is each case. Scenarios covered are at the forefront of a Sandy Bahra who works for very approachable and can be included: new initiative to raise Tesco in Dagenham, Essex, very supportive especially on n A member wanting leave awareness of three major was attending for the first specific ethnic issues. to go on a pilgrimage national cancer screening time. “This will help me when with his family. programmes (bowel, breast “The weekend was a great I advise and support my n Allocating time in the and cervical) amongst Black eye opener, I learned so much. members in my workplace. We working day to allow Minority Ethnic (BME) I’ve been to divisional looked closely at how we use members to pray. communities in the conferences before but never language in the workplace and n Wearing jewellery that Midlands. to a specific weekend like this. how things we say can offend may or may not have a There is evidence to show “We talked through a lot of certain people. religious meaning. that BME people are less experiences which made me “I think we covered n Members speaking in likely to access cancer realise that other people have everything in the time we had, their first language rather screening. the same problems I’m seeing it was very interesting and than English and when it n You can get more in my own store. everyone was very welcoming is and is not acceptable. information on the work “I picked up some good and supportive. n Experiences around of the equalities section points from the weekend by “I can’t wait for the next negotiating extended by visiting: listening to other members one. I’d love to go again and I leave as black and Asian www.usdaw.org.uk who all work for different would encourage other reps members often have close /equalities companies. It was also a great and members to find out more family living on the other or email: event for networking and I about the weekend and go and side of the world. [email protected] made some good friends. enjoy the experience.”

20 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK | NETWORK BLACK MEMBERS’ WEEKEND AND REPS mbers get more involved in the union

Peta Curno and Parminder Sogi from NHS Dudley Public Health Community Health Improvement Team It’s❞ a confidence booster and I always recommend it to all my fellow black and Asian reps.

Sandy Bally Foluke Bahra Auluk Moses

Bally Auluk “I left the weekend more Foluke Moses work and in this ever Bally, who works for knowledgeable and a lot wiser This was the second time at changing society. Sainsbury’s in Dursley, than when I arrived. I would the weekend for Foluke “It was very reassuring to Gloucestershire, was also at definitely go again and would Moses, who works for Tesco realise how much of a his first weekend. be keen to share my Metro in Battersea, South difference a rep can make in “The overall experience was experiences with the other London. the workplace and that our fantastic. I wasn't quite sure delegates and I would “There was a wide variety of views are being heard and what to expect, but I left with certainly recommend this get- ethnic minority reps and something is being done about my eyes wide open having together to my colleagues. members. We shared them. Even if the process listened to the other delegates’ “I joined the union 12 experiences and this gave me seems rather slow at times! experiences. months ago and became a rep an insight into what other reps “I was especially glad to see “There was a good mix of around the same time. were doing in their John Hannett and Paddy Lillis people from all walks of life I consider myself a very active workplaces. I picked up some at the weekend. It gave them and backgrounds, which made shop steward and represent good ideas that I could use in the opportunity to hear our the experience more enjoyable colleagues from my own store my store. views and take them on board. as there was a great exchange and other stores at “I especially enjoyed the “I’d like to see even more of views. disciplinary hearings and ‘role play’ activity. I learnt a people attending the next “The venue was good and appeals. I’m vice-chair of my little bit more about Black Members’ Weekend the subjects were wide- branch and I’ve also been employment law and how it Workshop later in the year. ranging and challenging and elected onto the South West affects our members. “It’s a confidence booster the length spent on each TUC and I sit on my divisional “And I broadened my and I always recommend it to subject was spot on. equalities forum.” knowledge on black issues at all my black and Asian reps.”

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 | 21 RECRUITMENT NETWORK | WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK & ORGANISING CAMPAIGN PROM The Legal Plus, Pensions, Young Workers and Supporting Parents & Carers campaigns

Young workers at Morrisons, Canterbur

eps at the Morrisons store in Canterbury R organised a Young Workers and a Legal Plus Awareness Day last year with the help of Academy1 organiser Rachel Goodwin. “I met with store reps, Carol Husk, Tracy Garlinge and Graham Holness and they decided both campaigns would hit home with the staff in their store,” said Rachel, 27, who completed six months with the Academy in 2013. “There are four universities in the City and a lot of the staff are students. Having been a young activist myself, I know how Ben Baldwin (right) important it is for young workers staff welcomed the chance to sit to know they have rights. We have down privately with the solicitor to remind them they can speak to and get advice about a variety of Legal Plus, Tesco, Dereham their union rep if they have legal issues. problems with shift changes or “The Legal Plus campaign study leave or anything else. appeals to everyone as it is such a xperienced rep Ben “Cassie Fleming from local union good benefit for members and their Baldwin is using social panel solicitors Walker Smith Way families. E media to connect with was on hand to speak to staff, as “I used the experience I had not members, share was area organiser Paul Reynolds. only with the Academy but also as information and also promote the “There was a lot of interest and a youth activist to help the in-store Follow us union’s campaigns. @UsdawUnion “Members who like using Facebook and Twitter think it’s a Legal Plus, Primark, Manchester great way to get information out to them fast,” said Ben, who works at the Tesco Superstore in Dereham in In action . . . (l-r) Norfolk. Ellen “We held a very successful Legal Shaw, Daniel Plus Awareness Day last year with Subscribe to UsdawUnion Whipp, solicitor Christopher Mason. Debra “On the day 22 members filled in Blow, Julia Free Will forms and two new Nancollis members signed up. We are a high and membership store so getting new Lorraine Haves members is a great bonus. “All-in-all it was a great day and we had the full support of Follow us management. Since posting on UsdawUnion Facebook I’ve had several members asking me for more information about the Legal Plus service wanting to know more about their free half- hour with a union solicitor about legal issues not related to work.”

22 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 Follow us UsdawUnion WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK | NETWORK RECRUITMENT & ORGANISING OTERS are all paying massive dividends

ry Awareness Day . . . Team work . . . (l-r) (l-r) Rachel Wendy Shadlock, Nev Goodwin, Graham James, Kayleigh Soper Holness, and Wendy Wood Paul Reynolds, Cassie Fleming and Carol Husk Caring at Tesco, Scunthorpe

elping members from school, a relative may need understand their rights assistance with a hospital or H to time-off for parental specialist appointment, an elderly and caring relative may have had an accident responsibilities was the aim of the or need some help settling into a reps’ team at the Tesco Extra store in care home. Scunthorpe last year. “Additionally, you may need to Wendy Wood, Nev James, Wendy change your hours to give you more Shadlock, Susan Baker and Kayleigh flexibility with your childcare, the Soper used the Parents and Carers list goes on. Campaign Day to highlight all the “The day gave us the opportunity issues. to speak to staff and explain how “These special awareness days they are entitled by law to time-off reps’ team. give us the opportunity to spend for family emergencies and caring “I enjoyed working with time with members and answer any responsibilities. them as they worked well as questions they may have. The “We reminded members that the a team and were very feedback from members was union can help them with a request enthusiastic to learn from the positive and these events show the for the time-off they need to fulfill experience and to see the day union up in a good light too,” said these duties. go well. rep Wendy Wood. “No matter how much literature “They’ve certainly raised “There are so many reasons why you hand out or how much the union’s profile in their working parents and carers would information there is on the store and are keen to hold need time off or flexible working noticeboard, people still do not fully more events in the future.” arrangements. Your child may be ill understand what they are entitled and you may have to collect them to. It needs the personal touch.”

eps are using the with the Academy tells me our this and support our reps and help union’s campaigns to campaigns are relevant to our them deliver vital messages and R build a bigger profile in members’ everyday lives,” said advice about a very complex, but companies such as Ellen. very important area such as Primark where there is a huge “That’s why I was keen to work pensions,” added Debra. potential for membership, and with the reps at the Primark store “The pensions department has highlighting the many benefits of in Manchester and organise and produced the Pensions Toolkit union membership. run a high profile event. which is proving to be an essential Area organiser Ellen Shaw was “Although we already have a resource for reps and officials. joined by Debra Blow and Julia membership base at the store the “You can contact the department Nancollis from the union’s potential to build on this is for advice and guidance and to pensions department and Daniel massive. The event generated a lot keep us up-to-date with pension Whipp from Usdaw panel of interest in-store.” events in your division. Raising solicitors Rowley Dickinson to run Pensions Officer Debra Blow awareness is absolutely key and I a joint Legal Plus and Pension took the opportunity to run a look forward to working with and Awareness Day at the Manchester Pension Awareness session at the supporting more reps this year.” Primark store. same time. “My experience as a rep in my “It’s important we own store, out on stand-down and run more days like For more information visit: www.usdaw.org.uk JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 | 23 LIFELONG NETWORK | WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK LEARNING Checkout Learning T GIVING YOU THE SKILLS YOU WANT Access to courses via the lifelong learning campaign has helped thousands of members improve their job prospects

The new learning Tesco Extra, Berkshire centre at Stockport

ormer union learning steward and new members. rep Greg Charles is “The feedback from staff, F using his new role as a including the store manager, was Tesco Extra, Hastings divisional project very positive. worker to support other activists “The most popular courses so they can encourage members were English, maths, IT, Spanish ctivist Maura Winchester will miss the to improve their skills at work. and digital photography as well enjoyment of helping members learn new He recently linked up with as online learning. A skills when she retires from the Tesco Extra Academy organisers Neil Bennett “Staff were also impressed store in Hastings, East Sussex in June. and Maria Hughes to run a very with the union’s dyslexia booklet The 62 year-old rep has been involved since 2009, successful campaign at the Tesco and the work the union does to becoming a Union Learning Rep a year later and in store Sandhurst in Berkshire. support members in this area. 2011 was elected on to the divisional equalities forum. “Promoting learning “Having been an activist for “I’m going to miss my day to day role with the opportunities and working with more than four years I have a lot union,” said Maura. reps across the division to of experience. “It’s great helping colleagues with their problems establish a learning culture in “I’ve been a shop steward, and encouraging them to learn new skills. their workplaces and enable health and safety rep, branch “I’ve particularly enjoyed working as a Union members to enhance their skills chair, union learning rep, Learning Rep, it’s such a rewarding position. Lifelong brings a lot of rewards,” said divisional councillor and I’ve Learning is one of the most satisfying areas I’ve been Greg, 62. also been involved with the part of, it makes such a difference to people’s lives. “We recruited a new learning divisional equalities forum. “Promoting the Six Book Challenge has been rep as well as an extra shop “It’s very rewarding.” especially rewarding. We started three years ago with a small library area in the corner of the canteen and I thought this would be a great way to promote the library. “We even convinced our store manager to join in and he donated many prizes including a Kindle. “Since then around 300 people have taken part including friends and family and their children. It’s been a huge success. “Hopefully I will stay in touch with what’s going on in my division.”

Greg Charles promotes learning in Berkshire Maura Winchester

24 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK | NETWORK LIFELONG LEARNING Tesco Extra, Stockport taff at the Tesco Extra store in Victoria to secure the services of local tutors Stockport, Cheshire, can now to take the courses. S access a range of courses to “When we asked the members what they enhance their skills following the wanted the overwhelming response from opening of a new on-site learning centre. members was to learn sign language, The team of reps has worked with maths, computer skills and languages such management to provide a fully-equipped as Spanish. area with laptops, a printer and a range of “We’re all looking forward to seeing the stationery. difference learning will make to members’ “We’re all excited about the new facilities lives.” and the idea of learning at work,” said Deputy general secretary Paddy Lillis Kerry Osburn, who is one of four Union opened the new centre in January. He said: Learning Reps (ULR) at the store, Victoria “Lifelong Learning is one of the most Taylor, Paul Taylor and James Bowers positive areas Usdaw is involved in. complete the team. “Over the last ten years more than 70,000 “Our divisional lifelong learning project members have signed up for a variety of worker Denise Gordon secured a grant to courses and having a learning centre at help fund the venture. work makes it easier for them to commit “In addition Mobile ULR Don Cuthbert and complete a course. It’s a winning has worked closely with myself and formula.”

Tesco, Padstow The Facts Usdaw launched the Lifelong Learning campaign ten years ago. Since then, the campaign has shown that when learning is made accessible and affordable members are keen to take it up. Up to now: More than 70,000 members have returned to some sort of learning. More than 1,089 Union Learning Reps have been trained. Learning is up and running in more than 300 workplaces. Partnerships to access learning have been established with major The Cornish Language companies like Tesco, class at Tesco Padstow Sainsbury’s, Morrisons Distribution, DHL and McVities. olding on to their local identity, forward to the next level.” culture and heritage was the aim Nineteen staff, friends and family Partnerships with colleges to H of members at the Tesco store in successfully completed stage 1 and received promote access to learning have Padstow, Cornwall when they their certificates from the Mayor of Padstow been established all over the signed up for Cornish Language classes. last year and many have now signed up for country with: Mobile Union Learning Rep Kris Jane who stage 2 of the course. n 40 Learning Provider along with store rep Jackie Gray and “It was great to be able to deliver this Agreements signed Christine Worley, the division’s project course – one that our members have asked worker, have worked hard to encourage staff for and which they enjoyed. They’re keen to n 65 Active on-site learning to take up new opportunities. develop their skills further,” said Christine. centres “Lifelong learning has gone down very “The Cornish language has enjoyed a n 88 sites with joint learning well in the Padstow store, and staff jumped positive revival over the last few years with committees at the chance to learn something that was more schools, businesses and community n 60 sites covered by Learning relevant to everyone including their families projects getting involved. Agreements and the local community,” said Kris. “The six lesson course is one of many skill “Management have been fully supportive development projects. It gives students a n 49 sites with site level and are now providing information for staff firm foundation in reading and speaking learning funds in a bilingual format,” said Kris. “We are all Cornish and prepares them to very proud of our achievements and looking move on to the next level.” For more information visit: www.usdaw.org.uk STAFF NETWORK | WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK Reps take the next step Network catches up with five of the new area organisers appointed to Team Usdaw in 2013 – all former graduates of the union’s groundbreaking Academy system

ormer Tesco oining Susan rgos Home orrisons o-op worker and in the Scottish Retail’s rep Clare customer F Scottish J division is AMAnnette Bott Hansen C assistant activist Susan former Co-op from Widnes joined Sidonie Coutts took up her role distribution worker joined the union’s staff Annette at the ‘Sid’ McShane set her at the Edinburgh office John Todd who was last September and Warrington office last sights on a job with the in August 2013. appointed last July and works alongside September. union twelve months Susan, 49, joined is based at the Glasgow former colleague area The 30 year-old ago and nine months Usdaw in 1994 when office. organiser Jo Welbourne former personnel later achieved her goal she worked for Scottish John, 42, joined at the Warrington worker from the Speke when she was Midlands Co-op. After Usdaw in 2003 and was office. store is the first rep appointed area taking on the role of elected shop steward Annette joined from Morrisons in the organiser at the shop steward in 2001 and health and safety Usdaw in 2005 and was North West division to Faversham office. she went on to hold rep five years later. He elected shop steward make the step up on to “Everything just many union positions spent six months with two years later. the organising staff. came together. I won a including health and Academy1 in 2011. In 2011 she took on Clare joined the place on Academy1, safety rep, and branch “After being made the role of Union union in 2007 and went out on stand- secretary. redundant by the Learning Rep and a became a shop steward down and then In 2007 she was Co-op in 2011, I took a year later was voted on two years later and at attended Summer elected onto the job as a driver in a non- to the divisional the same time studied School,” said the 50 executive council – and unionised workplace, council. for a degree in English year-old. has since been re- but kept up my union She completed at university. “I joined Usdaw in elected for a further membership,” said John. Academy1 in 2012 and In 2011 she was 2007 and was elected two terms. She also “I’m delighted to Academy2 in 2013. elected Union Learning shop steward and served as chair of the have the opportunity “Home Retail Rep and also spent six health and safety rep national youth to work with and allowed me the perfect months with the two years later. In 2010 committee. develop my own team environment to union’s Academy1. I was elected branch In 2006 she was of reps across my patch develop my knowledge “From the minute secretary. selected for Academy1 and keep raising the and skills,” said 51 I took on the role of “I also completed the and went on to profile of the union. year-old Annette. shop steward I knew Home Study course graduate from “The Academy is the “Jo’s appointment I wanted to work for and attended lots of Academy2 in 2011. ideal training ground two years ago inspired Usdaw,” said Clare. weekend and “My roles, especially for reps who want to me and I wanted to “I’ve had divisional events. my time with the get more involved in follow in her footsteps. tremendous support “I’ve always tried to Academies, have given the union. It certainly “I’ve had from the North West get on as many courses me so many gave me the experience tremendous support division’s Pam as I could. This was a opportunities to I needed to give me an from Amanda Bailey- Thompson, Dave Gill bit difficult at times as develop not only insight into the work of Coll and Jo of course, and Jo Welbourne. I’m I’d been a carer for my myself but also the Usdaw, locally, as well as former delighted to have this mum for the last 15 many reps and divisionally and colleague and Lifelong opportunity. years. members I’ve been nationally. Learning project “I’m looking forward “I’m looking forward lucky enough to work “Joining the worker Julia Baldwin. to building strong to this wonderful with. organising staff is a “I want to support relationships with reps opportunity. My aim is “I’m looking forward golden opportunity for and develop my reps and management and to guide and help my to even more me and I’m enjoying just as I’ve been raising the profile of reps to develop and challenges ahead.” every moment.” supported.” the union.” grow just as I have.”

26 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK | NETWORK YOUR LETTERS

SEND YOUR LETTERS AND PICTURES TO: BLACK HISTORY MONTH NORWICH Network Editor, Usdaw, 188 Wilmslow Road, Manchester M14 6LJ Top score for Brian ✉ [email protected] AWARD FOR UNION CAMPAIGNER Jane remembered FREEDOM FROM FEAR AT CO-OP £50 star letter Campaign trail winner

Black History Month is held every October in Norwich with many events taking place throughout the Terry Adair with month. This year I helped to organise Francine Connolly the five-a-side football tournament, it Usdaw was represented when the was a fantastic day. Police late Jane Rogers was honoured with commissioner Stephen Betts gave his the TUC’s posthumous award at full support to the event presenting Blackpool Town Hall last medals to winners and runners-up. Abuse from customers is happening more November. This was in recognition A big thank you to Morrisons store and more to staff. Jamie Trelour, our head of of the tireless work carried out by manager Mark Ellis and personnel security, decided to do something about it. Jane over many years. The Mayor manager Shelia Bullock for donating He organised campaign days at the 15 stores of Blackpool made the presentation refreshments and for their continued in the region that reported the most abuse. to Jane’s family. Sadly Jane died on support. Being a till supervisor I have witnessed abuse the 28th January 2013. Her It gives me great satisfaction to be first hand on many occasions and wanted to daughter Francine accepted the able to attend these events as a help. The company is doing its best to tackle award on the family’s behalf. representative and raise the profile of abuse and encourage staff to report incidents. Usdaw within the community. This being my first campaign, I enlisted Terry AdAir, North West help from rep Sarah Langton. We visited five divisional councillor BriAN LeWiS, Eastern division Norwich stores, Mile Cross, Hall Road, Dereham Road, Earlham Green Lane and TESCO REDDITCH REPS HOST VIP VISIT North Earlham where we asked customers to fill out the survey. One elderly lady recalled TUC AT TESCO that when she worked in an Army and Navy store a man came into the shop with a Assistant general secretary of Samurai sword. She managed to creep out the the TUC Paul Nowak and front door and locked him in. She called the Rebecca Blake MP paid a visit police who had been looking for him all day. to Tesco Redditch to talk to the This was a real learning experience for me reps about the cost of living and and I am looking forward to doing it again. the important role that union reps play in the workplace. A LeSLey NeAVe, East of England Co-op very informative event. Sarah Hughes, Redditch office CELEBRATING 30 YEARS WITH USDAW . . . your tweets to 1. elaine @UsdawUnion Heard, Co-op Bude, is @DannyJovicic On average presented with members in a unionised workplace her 30 years’ get paid more than staff in a membership award from workplace that isn’t unionised. colleagues. Join @UsdawUnion today. 2. Graham @nowak_paul Great event dell, Tesco celebrating #unionreps with Weston Favell, @UsdawUnion last night. Brilliant also receives work by 1000s of reps epitomises his 30 years’ best of the trade union movement! membership 1 2 award.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 | 27 HEALTH NETWORK | WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK & SAFETY HSE REVIEW Keep up-to-date with the latest changes to codes of practice s a follow-up to the Lofstedt review of guidance on managing the risk in retail and licensed health and safety, the Government premises has been retained. To view the webpages A required the HSE to review all of its go to: www.hse.gov.uk/violence/index.htm guidance and all the Approved Codes of Practice (ACoP). HSE has completed that review Asbestos for some of the most important ACoPs, writes Two Asbestos ACoPs, L127 (The management of health and safety officer Doug Russell. asbestos in non-domestic premises) and L143 (Work with materials containing asbestos) have Workplace been consolidated into one single revised ACoP. The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) This has been done to make legal compliance Regulations 1992 are the staple regulations for clearer to duty-holders and also reflect changes many Usdaw reps so any changes to the ACoP, introduced in The Control of Asbestos which contains basic standards on toilet facilities, Regulations 2012. More at: drinking water, temperature, ventilation, etc., would www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/l143.htm have been significant. Although the ACoP has been updated to take account of the regulations on work Legionella at height, the basic standards are still there. L8, the ACoP on Legionella, has been substantially Unfortunately the HSE chose not to take the advice re-written. The main change is the removal of from trade unions to include a maximum workplace technical guidance on water treatment – which has temperature in the ACoP. More at: been published separately as a guidance www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/l24.pdf document. The ACoP now concentrates on the responsibilities of the duty-holder to assess and Violence control risks from legionella and to appoint a HSE have also updated their web-based guidance competent person to manage the risk. More at: on prevention of violence to staff. The detailed www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/l8.pdf

HSE review sparks fear Europe set to get among TUC professionals deregulation disease

he TUC and health outlook and in delivery. embers are being urged to ask their Euro and safety Therefore, I have asked HSE to election candidate whether they are in T professionals have begin work immediately to M favour of the removal of protection from voiced concerns examine commercial models for workers or will they back a new strategy about the Government’s HSE in collaboration with HMT on dealing with the huge health problems facing workers. response to the latest review of and Cabinet office, and to The move comes in response to the European the HSE and fear parts of the review the HSE Board to ensure Commission’s decision on its REFIT programme service could be ‘privatised’ or it has the right skills to oversee launched in October 2013. The language of this contracted out. future efficiencies and regulatory review has been described as ‘depressingly While the report confirms the commercial income generating familiar’ with a focus on reducing alleged regulatory important role that HSE plays in options.’ burdens on business. One major casualty of the scheme reducing injury and ill health at In 2010 the Government is the draft directive on musculoskeletal disorders, which work the official ministerial announced that all public experts have been developing since 2009. The response states: ‘There is agencies like the HSE would be Commission is also considering proposals to exempt considerable potential for HSE reviewed every three years. The small businesses from basic health and safety duties. to become more commercial in aim of the review is to check “In the UK we have seen the damage that the whether the functions the HSE Government has done to health and safety. Now it seems covers are still needed and, if the European Union is going down the same road,” said they are, to look at whether the Usdaw safety officer Doug Russell. “The European HSE is the best way to make parliament elections on May 22 gives union members an sure these functions are ideal opportunity to quiz their candidates about their delivered. More at: stance on health and safety.” www.gov.uk/government/upl For more information visit: oads/system/uploads/attach http://www.etui.org/Topics/Health- ment_data/file/270015/hse- Safety/News/European-Trade-Unions-mobilize- function-form-governance- against-EU-Commission-deregulatory-programme- triennial-review.pdf REFIT

28 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK | NETWORK HEALTH & SAFETY

In conversation with health and safety rep Susan Heath

Susan Heath won the national Health and Safety Rep award in January, She works on the customer service desk at Sainsbury’s in Hayes, Middlesex.

Why did you get involved as a safety rep? We didn’t have one in-store so I volunteered to take it on, that was five For more information about health and safety in the workplace: years ago. Health and safety is very important. I’m looking after myself, my VISIT: www.usdaw.org.uk/healthandsafety colleagues and the customers so it’s EMAIL: [email protected] worthwhile. What practical steps do you undertake to ensure a safe workplace? Government safety Hazards at It’s a day-to-day thing, keeping on top of everything from ensuring clear fire exits policy ‘drivel’ says TUC Work App to keeping in touch with colleagues at the petrol filling station and liaising with inisters are misusing an official he TUCs management – who I have a good government website to push the Hazards at Work working relationship with. Conservative Party’s political anti- book, the It’s about keeping on top of the little M T things. On a bigger scale we have three workplace safety line, according to definitive guide the TUC’s head of safety Hugh Robertson. to health and safety for union full inspections a year. He cites the Department for Work and Pensions reps, is now available as an safety policy webpages that set out its policy on ‘app’ for iphone, ipad and Do you enjoy being a health and safety, it states: “We believe that good other digital readers. It is also safety rep? health and safety is important, but the burden of available for tablets and Yes. I get a lot of satisfaction out of doing excessive health and safety rules and regulations on android devices. it and as I’ve progressed I’ve had more business has become too great and a damaging respect from colleagues and compensation culture is stifling innovation and If reps want to get the app, management. My efforts are appreciated. growth.” details are available at: I’ve done the two Usdaw safety reps’ However Hugh Robertson described this ‘as strongerunions.org/2013/09 courses and did summer school1 last absolute drivel’. He dismisses this by citing official /03/hazards-at-work-goes- year and thoroughly enjoyed it. statistics, government-sponsored research, digital-3/ government committees, independent studies and What’s been your best admissions from high ranking Tories. For reps who prefer the moment? “There is no proof that health and safety is a paper version, copies can be We ran a Freedom From Fear campaign burden on business or that there is a damaging ordered from Usdaw’s day last year and that went really well. compensation culture, the Government should get stationery department at the The local MP came along with senior rid of the misconceptions and myths, and actually do reduced cost of £14 plus post reps and officials and the local press some good by encouraging employers to protect and packing. covered it. their workers,” he added. www.usdaw.org.uk/advicer We also had a major extension built a For more information visit: esources/resources/orderfo few years ago and the safety aspect of strongerunions.org/2013/12/06/government-hs- rms/tuchazardsatworkorder that went very well. policy-built-on-myths/ form.aspx

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 | 29 WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK | NETWORK 22 MAY: EU ELECTIONS ever done for you?

Does Europe Q improve my rights So the EU and the European Parliament is perfect… is it? as a consumer? Q

Yes. Plans to scrap mobile Of course the EU is not perfect and directly-employed staff after 12 weeks. ❝ phone roaming charges ❝Labour MEPs have been leading In comparison, Martin Callanan, the across Europe will cut costs for the campaign for reform. For example, I Tory MEP who leads the eight nation consumers. Under these plans, have called for an end to the ‘travelling Conservative and Reform Group, thinks mobile providers will be banned circus’ of the European Parliament we should create jobs by scrapping the from charging for incoming calls meeting in two different places. Working Time Directive, the Agency from July 2014, with all other There is an expensive farce every month Workers Directive, the Pregnant Workers roaming charges scrapped by when the staff of the parliament put all Directive ‘and all of the other barriers to 2016. An EU code of online their office material into trunks, and it actually employing people’. And UKIP rights protects consumers while gets sent from Brussels to Strasbourg MEP Roger Helmer claims that white internet shopping. And new costing more than 200 million Euros and asbestos ‘poses no measurable risk to rules due to come into force this more than 20,000 tonnes of additional human health’. year will ensure that when you carbon dioxide. At present, just 13 out of 73 UK buy meat labelled as ‘British’, Labour MEPs have also been representatives in the European you can be sure it really is campaigning for a European Youth Jobs Parliament are Labour; partly as a result British and not just imported for Guarantee to tackle crippling youth of protest votes at the 2009 European slaughter here in the UK. British unemployment and ensure that every elections, which saw 13 UKIP and two farmers and customers have young person gets a quality offer of BNP MEPs elected. been calling for this for years employment or training after leaving If we want more Labour MEPs who will and I put forward an school or becoming unemployed. And we invest in jobs and growth, work alongside amendment in the European are calling for action to close the loophole trade unions to defend workers’ rights Parliament when the law was in the UK Agency Workers Regulations and fight back against austerity, we need being passed to make sure that that allows agencies and employers to use Usdaw members to work alongside us to this information is included in ‘Pay by Assignment’ contracts to avoid get Labour candidates elected in the food labelling. treating agency workers the same as their European elections on 22 May 2014.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 | 31 22 MAY: EU NETWORK | WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK ELECTIONS What has the EU e

s the Bill paving the way for a A 2017 referendum on the UK’s membership of the European Union (EU) heads back to the House of Commons and elections for the European Parliament approach in May this year, Labour’s leader in the European Parliament and MEP for the East Midlands, Glenis Willmott, asks ‘What has the EU ever done for you?’

Isn’t there too much Red Tape and Am I financially better Q Brussels bureaucracy? Q off in Europe? How does that affect me?

David Cameron agency and for part-time Those calling for the UK to leave the European calls European and temporary workers Union are fond of telling us how much it costs ❝ ❝ rules ‘Red Tape’. I call them and the requirement for us to be a member. It’s true that we pay more into the workers’ rights and health employers to consult with EU budget than we receive back in the form of EU and safety protection. unions where there are spending. But these costs are far outweighed by the Many rights at work have mass redundancies. increased trade and affluence that being a member of been negotiated between In addition, rules the Single Market brings. European governments and requiring employers to A recent Confederation of British Industry (CBI) are guaranteed by protect workers from report puts the net benefit at nearly £3,000 a year per European law. exposure to hazardous household – with every individual in the UK around They include the right to substances and to assess £1,225 better off. guaranteed paid holidays, a the risks arising from work limit on the hours you can with display screen be expected to work, tea equipment or carrying out and lunch breaks during lifting operations, for the working day and the example, all come from right to a day off a week. Europe. Is being a member of the EU Rights for mums and Make no mistake that Q good for my job security? dads – like the right not to when Cameron talks about be sacked for being ‘renegotiating the Treaty’ pregnant, protection when and ‘repatriating powers’ returning to work after from Brussels to As part of an EU of 28 countries, Britain maternity leave and the Westminster, he means ❝is part of the world’s biggest trading right to time off for taking rights away from block – a single market of more than 500 million ante-natal appointments – working people. people. Nearly 3.5 million UK jobs currently rely also stem from Europe. The Coalition on EU membership. That’s around 10 per cent of The list continues with Government has already the workforce. Japan warned the Government the so-called ‘TUPE’ made it easier for that if the UK were to leave the EU, 1,300 protection when a business employers to sack workers Japanese companies could relocate to stay in the is sold off, protection and more difficult for Single Market. And car manufacturer Nissan against discrimination, workers to get justice in the says that leaving the EU could create barriers to equal treatment for workers courts and employment foreign investment. employed through an tribunals.

30 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 Events News

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