SERTUC annual report 2 01 5 President’s foreword About the region

SERTUC, the Southern & Eastern Region of Committee. I have tried to chair Regional the TUC, is the largest of the TUC’s regions Council, and other meetings, in my own and covers three European parliamentary sensitive way, encouraging debate and constituencies: London, the South East, and seeking progressive consensus, welcoming East of England. Two million trades unionists constructive contributions, whilst vigorously live and work within the region. discouraging attempts to raise matters under The Regional Council is appointed annually Any Other Business, not because it delayed This is my last year as the President of by affiliates and county associations of trades impending moments of relaxation in the SERTUC. Tony Benn once said that he had councils and meets four times a year to pub, but because any sharp political operator five questions for anyone acting in a discuss both how to achieve policy would have worked their intervention into leadership role; “What power have you got? determined at the national Trades Union the main agenda somewhere. I hope that I Where did you get it from? In whose Congress and to make specific policies on was always available to talk to delegates face interests do you exercise it? To whom are regional issues. At its Annual General to face, or on the phone, and I certainly was you accountable? And how can we get rid of Meeting it elects officers and an Executive always pleased to talk to them as equals, on you? If you cannot get rid of the people who Committee that meets monthly. picket lines, at meetings and demonstrations, govern you, you do not live in a democratic and so on. Again I had my limits; and those Affiliated trade unions and county system.” limits were ‘email’ and ‘social media’. associations also nominate to SERTUC’s I have been fortunate to be elected as the If something was worth saying, then it was industrial and equality subgroups who use President of the Regional Council of the worth saying to me face to face. their workplace and life experience to Southern and Eastern Regional Trades Union inform the activities of the Regional Council. We need class analysis, class consciousness, Congress for 20 years. Any authority that I hope, courage, principle, discipline, SERTUC staff administer the Regional had during those years was derived from the organisation, unity and action. Council, deliver services to affiliates, support of the delegates to the Regional SERTUC I want to thank everyone I worked with on represent the TUC in relations with public Council that were drawn from the family of Congress House the Regional Council and Executive bodies, campaign for Congress policies, and unions in our region, which themselves have Great Russell Street Committee, but to offer a special thanks to deliver learning and education to workers in two million trade union members, working London WC1B 3LS Barry Camfield, who for many years was the Region. in every part of our economy, and from Vice-Chair, Anita Halpin also Vice Chair, and 020 7467 1220 delegates from County Associations of There are 11 members of staff and a full list the current Vice Presidents Tony Lennon and Trades Councils that organise in every part with contact details is on page 44. [email protected] Linda Perks. I want to thank Mick Connolly and corner of our region. and Megan Dobney, the Regional Secretaries I have always been accountable to the with whom I worked so closely and whose Regional Council and its Executive commitment and passion I admire. And I

1 Secretary’s introduction

want to thank those in the SERTUC office I believe that the President of SERTUC is a It’s been a grim year – both politically with Williams have been joined by many team who have always made me welcome key role in the trade union movement in this class conscious government continuing volunteers – enabling a much wider spread and supported my work on the Regional Britain. I remain convinced that SERTUC is a its consistent attack on workers and our of work to be carried out. So thanks to Council’s behalf: Sue, Darren, Jo, Matt, John, force for good and a force for change, that it services, but also personally, with the loss of John Ball, David Braniff-Herbert, Mike Jane and Laurie. has an established and growing leadership some dear friends and comrades – Nicholas Carver, Suha Din Abdul, Alice Dupont, Joel People are mortal, and life can be fragile, and role in the trade union movement and Russell (Unison), Tony Kelly (Suffolk CATC), Kosminsky, Dick Muskett, Baljit Panesar, I have lost some dear comrades in the past, whomsoever is the next elected President, Linda Kietz (CWU and SERTUC EC), Jim Peta Steel and Tom Taylor . Add to them the like Jack Amos. But this year was peppered will have a critically important job to do. Carty (USDAW) and Mick Connolly (former superb work carried out by the officers and with the deaths of leading trade unionists. This annual report merely hints at some of SERTUC regional secretary). activists on our Regional Council and sub- May Day in London was a fitting tribute to the work that SERTUC has delivered in the Nonetheless the struggle continued with a groups and we are indeed a mighty force to Bob Crow and Tony Benn, two giants of the last year, and I am proud of our sharp response from many unions to the be reckoned with! labour movement. Recently we lost both achievements. The present government has specific attacks they have faced. SERTUC has It’s also been a very positive year for Nick Mick Connolly and Linda Kietz, who were practised class war on the British people; sought to support all affiliates and some of Phillips who leads London Unemployed key figures in SERTUC’s work. It remains our it has been government for the rich by the the actions are described in this report. Strategies, funded by Trust for London and duty to work tirelessly to continue their rich. There is a clear choice at the General SERTUC staff, whether focussed on Regional based inthe SERTUC office. However, we are principled work. As Joe Hill very nearly said, Election in May. The entire welfare state is at Council work, or on our learning and now facing the end of the grant and are “Don’t mourn. Organise.” jeopardy and further attacks on trade education agenda, are key of course and the seeking further funding with optimism. During my leadership SERTUC has sought unionists’ right to strike are impending. beginning of 2 01 5 saw the (during the life of But for me the biggest event of the year – to be a progressive, left and dynamic political But whatever government emerges in May, this government) usual cut to unionlearn yet to happen – is the retirement of our force within the trade union movement, part we can be certain that it will not be as funding. So many congratulations to Stuart President, Martin Gould . I have worked with of the TUC, and yet independent in thought, radical or as principled as we might wish, so Barber who is seconded to Carshalton Martin both as a former activist for the print supporting workers in struggle and having we, trade unionists, trade unions, SERTUC College to work with them for a year on a unions and as Regional Secretary. principle based on the long term vision of and the TUC, have a massive long-term job major project with the Construction Industry I can firmly say that no TUC bureaucrat socialism won through struggle. The struggles to do. Training Board; Union Support Officer could ask for a better President! Wise, have been many; against privatisation, anti- I am retiring as President of SERTUC so “I Adrian Ryan who will take on the Senior humane and available, he has been a rock union laws, union busting employers, factory declare this meeting closed!”, but rest USO role, and Oreleo Du Cran who will over my nine years in this office. His political closures, against racism and fascism etc. assured, I am not retiring from politics and I lead on the promotion of apprenticeships in guidance has been invaluable and he will be There have been wins and there have been am as confident as ever that trade unionism the Region. And my thanks again to our TU a hard act to follow. Thankyou so much losses, but the strength of our arguments, remains the Hope of the World and that the Education colleagues, Rob Hancock, Phil Martin, and good wishes for the future. quality of our organisation and our unity in future belongs to us. Gowan, Jaspal Ghtoray and Alyx Jenkins . action has always been the key test – as our Megan Dobney Once again our dedicated office team of Regional Secretary solidarity in 1984 with the NUM showed. Martin Gould SERTUC President Laurie Heselden, Darren Lewis and Joanne

2 3 SERTUC campaigns and events

SERTUC’s campaign work during the year was framed by the TUC’s Campaign Plan and the motions passed at Regional Council. The five pillars many agencies working on the issue are of the TUC’s Campaign acting together and productively. Plan are: The theme of the TUC’s third national I Growth and quality jobs talked with very many workers who were demonstration on 18 October, was Britain by publicising their cause. We supported I Fair pay for all suffering dismal terms and conditions of Needs a Pay Rise and SERTUC was pleased Unite workers at St Mungos, fighting against I Quality public services and decent welfare employment and two issues that were to mobilise for the event and to provide proposed pay cuts. Each of those trade for all who need it prevalent were exploitation and insecurity volunteers for the senior steward team. In union campaigns was won. But Britain’s pay I A stronger voice in the workplace for under zero hours contracts and the number fact we have used the Britain Needs a Pay crisis is long, deep and it continues. trade unions of people we met who were employed in Rise theme in our work throughout the year, TUC Fair Pay Fortnight was a campaign that I Stronger unions. the care sector who had terrible terms and as part of our emphasis on the workers’ cost conditions of employment. Two of the ran 14 February to 1 March. SERTUC TUC Decent Jobs Week was held 15 to 20 of living crisis. We contributed to the demands of our campaign were makng zero organised street stalls with the support of December, the main messages being that organisation of a London march and rally hour contracts illegal and the introduction of trades councils, young members, unwaged governments must take action to ensure that 10 July for strikers from local government, sector pay bodies to define minimum levels workers and Labour Party supporters. We everyone who wants one has a job, and that education and the NHS, who were of employment standards in sectors with met with elected Councillors to promote it should be a decent job. SERTUC organised demanding a fair and decent pay rise. We poor employment practices, such as care. the payment of the Living Wage. We sought campaign street stalls in Ipswich, Gillingham, supported NHS workers from TUC affiliate to launch local alliances to campaign for the Chatham, Southwark and Hastings with During the year Megan Dobney was a and non-affiliate unions in the NHS when Living Wage. We spoke at a public meeting active support from unions, trades councils, Commissioner on the Islington Employment their struggle for a pay rise for all continued, on the Isle of Wight, which is a very low pay Labour Party Councillors, unwaged workers Commission. The work was designed to and it was a pleasure to be at area, contrary to the lazy concept of the and young members. The response from the strengthen employment opportunities for demonstrations outside hospitals with south of Britain being universally wealthy. public was very positive and we met and Islington residents and to ensure that the Unison and the Royal College of Midwives During the fortnight SERTUC organised on 13 October. We joined a demonstration events in Cambridge, Ipswich, Southwark, outside the Victoria and Albert Museum Hastings, IoW and Chichester. We joined organised by the PCS branch there seeking a unions in pay struggles at the National pay rise. We supported BECTU members at Gallery picket line, and outside Clapham the Ritzy Cinema in Brixton, seeking the Picture House. We sent campaign materials London Living Wage at demonstrations and

4 5 SERTUC continues to sponsor the annual Levellers Day celebrations in Burford, Oxfordshire. The 2 01 4 debate platform was Tricia Lavelle CWU , Paul Mackney, Roger McKenzie Unison , Simon Woolley Operation Black Vote

The third pillar of the TUC’s Campaign Plan is promoting publicly owned, publicly controlled and accountable public services. The Regional Council carried a motion during the year on the renationalisation of public services. SERTUC supported campaigns for the repeal of the Health and Social Care Act and against privatisation. For Secretary of State to be legally responsible closure of ticket offices at Underground example, we supported the People’s March for the NHS and Clive Efford spoke at the Stations. One of the things we did was to for the NHS and Megan Dobney spoke at SERTUC Regional Council. warn the Leaders of London Boroughs of the rally to receive the marchers in St the consequences of TfL’s plans for ticket Albans, along with filmmaker Ken Loach and SERTUC organised a major conference office closures in their Borough. SERTUC local activists. SERTUC supported and called Building an even better state education opposed the sale of the UK’s share of attended the People’s Convention for the for all in schools that brought together unions Eurostar, seeking to mobilise wider NHS on 11 April in London. We attended that organise in schools, campaign opposition and raised it with the Public to activists in constituencies such as Great meetings of London health unions and organisations, such as the Anti Academies Accounts Committee and Audit Yarmouth, Thurrock and Maidstone. spoke at Unison’s conference for reps in the Alliance and Reclaiming Education, and local Commission. SERTUC Young Members organised a street health sector. We supported the Private campaigns and parent groups. The event was stall in Maidstone on the 28 March. Members Bill to restore the duty of the intended to mobilise campaigns, facilitate This year saw a series of disputes at galleries networking and be action-orientated, and it and museums. We repeatedly joined PCS Pensions are deferred pay. The FBU’s produced a list of ‘recommended next steps’ picket lines outside the National Gallery principled and courageous industrial dispute for participants and unions. fighting against the proposed ‘outsourcing’ of over the government’s intended reforms to 400 gallery assistants’ jobs, with the declared firefighters’ pensions and retirement SERTUC believes in the principle and purpose of cutting costs. We supported processes has run throughout the year. efficiency of the public ownership of rail workers in struggle at the Dulwich Picture SERTUC has supported demonstrations and services. We supported Action for Rail Gallery and Imperial War Museum. We rallies outside London, speaking at a rally in campaign events throughout the year, supported GMB, PCS, Prospect and Unite Chelmsford 3 May 2 01 4, and President including 17 June and 1April, and particular workers at Kew Gardens, fighting against job Martin Gould has been a regular speaker at protests against the irrational and ideological losses, including severe job losses in the mass demonstrations supporting their cause letting of the franchise for the East Coast mainline. SERTUC continued to oppose the world class science base and research in London. continued on page 10

6 7 Burston Strike School The strike centenary year

left Stuff of Dreams actors Alex Helm (Rev. Eland), Georgia Robson (Annie 1April 2 01 4 was the centenary of the Higdon), Tom Grace children of Burston school walking out on (Tom Higdon) strike in solidarity with their teachers, Annie above Peter Kavanagh, and Tom Higdon – sacked by the squirarchy. Jeremy Corbyn MP Revell RMT, and Jeremy Corbyn MP. Music The year was packed with events beginning right Owen Jones was provided by the NASUWT Brass Band, on 1April with a celebration on the Green Red Flags, Thee Faction, and Roy Bailey. We and the premiere of a play in Diss High also welcomed the premiere by TheatreTrain School. At noon 80 children from the of Robert Hyman’s cantata And a little child Burston Community Primary School shall lead them (pic above ). recreated the candlestick (circular walk) retracing the steps of the children 100 years Other activities included: ago. Students from Diss High School made a I refurbishing the Higdons’ graves film of the day, and the children were I production of two souvenir mugs, one greeted on their return by the actors playing designed by children in the school Annie and Tom Higdon. I the return to the Strike School Museum of the Norfolk County Council minute In the evening Stuff of Dreams theatre book recording the decision to sack the company premiered their play The Bricks of above Thee Faction Higdons Burston written by Anthony Cule specially for left Roy Bailey I reproduction of The Burston Rebellion, Tom the centenary. bottom right Trustees Higdon’s account of the strike and Rally Committee I The 2 01 4 annual rally was the biggest in members on the films and tutor notes on the strike for use memory. Chaired by Megan Dobney, bench dedicated to in TU Education centres SERTUC regional secretary, and Lara Norris, the contribution of I an exhibition by Diss Embroidery Group Labour PPC for Great Yarmouth, rousing the Potter family to I the annual George Edwards lecture was speeches were given by Peter Kavanagh, the strike on the theme of the strike Unite London & Eastern regional secretary, photographs Peter I a new walk from the Churches Everard Smith Owen Jones, columnist and author, Geoff [email protected] Conservation Trust including the museum.

8 9 left London May Day, Mark Serwotka PCS general secretary, Frances O’Grady TUC general secretary right Orgreave Truth and Justice Campaign lobbying the Independent Police Complaints Commission

Labour and Social Studies conference that sought to elevate a trade union agenda and promote trade union’s as a dynamic agent for change. SERTUC promoted the Campaign for Press and Broadcasting Freedom’s consultation on its manifesto, facilities there. In each instance, government groups such as Disabled People Against the SERTUC supported Workers’ Memorial Day, which demanded a voice for workers and funding cuts and weak management was the Cuts. SERTUC’s links to welfare benefit 28 April, London Hazards Campaign, and the unions in the industry that has been so root of these disputes. recipients and to campaign groups anti-blacklisting campaign. We also supported blighted by the bias of media moguls for representing their interests were developed the Orgreave Truth and Justice Campaign SERTUC supported campaigns for public decades. We championed the adoption of by the work of London Unemployed and the Speak Up for Justice Coalition, that housing, such as the Defend Council procurement strategies that promote Strategies, which is based in the SERTUC is fighting against the cuts in legal aid and the Housing Campaign, for more low cost employment rights and trade union office. SERTUC continued to map and access of citizens and workers to justice in housing, for rent controls, local campaigns recognition. We worked with our Young publicise the location of food-banks in the the community and the workplace. We such as the New Era Estate campaign and Members Network to promote trade union SERTUC region, to seek to link trades celebrated both International Women’s Day the March for Homes protest on 31 January. membership to young people. We worked councils to them, and to publicise the and Black History at our event dedicated to During the year SERTUC published data that with sister trade union confederations and increasing use of food-banks in our region as Claudia Jones. showed that housing was unaffordable, even TUC affiliates to promote best practice a campaign opportunity. to those on average salaries, in vast swathes examples of collective bargaining and we We sought to develop stronger links of the SERTUC region and throughout SERTUC believes that trade unions are a were pleased to seek to mobilise broad between trade unions and communities, greater London. force for good and that ultimately unions support for Unite’s industrial action seeking examples being speaking at many trades In accordance with TUC policy and the having a stronger voice at work and stronger sector-wide bargaining in the London bus council meetings, supporting festivals of motion passed at Regional Council, SERTUC unions are the fundamental objectives of industry. An example of our work at the trade unionism in Lewes and Wisbech, opposed TTIP, inviting War on Want to speak SERTUC’s work. SERTUC supported May practical level was our support for UCU organising a trade union zone at the Day- on the campaign against it at Regional Day events across our region and beyond, strikers at Lambeth College, striking for Mer Festival in July and supporting the TUC’s Council, organising an event in London, including Ipswich, Bedford, Oxford, and many months opposing the imposition of community ‘migration messaging’ project in attending campaign events outside of Lisbon in Portugal, but the London May Day new contracts and the development of a Southampton, including their demonstration London and lobbying MEPs on the issue. march and rally was particularly important in two-tier workforce at the College. at Channel 4 against the filming of that it was a memorial to Bob Crow and to ‘Immigration Street’. We were able again this year to organise To promote ‘decent and fair welfare’ Tony Benn and a fierce commitment to successful events in London and the East of Anti-racism anti-fascism campaign work was SERTUC helped mobilise for the Day of continue their good work and so to ‘not England with the relevant ACAS regions, a core element of our work, examples Action Against Sanctions, 19 March, mourn, but organise’. continued to update unions about the roll- offering a one day conference in each sub- including hosting an exhibition at Congress out of Universal Credit and worked with SERTUC contributed to the Centre for region to union officers and reps. House by the Anti-Apartheid Movement, continued on page 13

10 11 Truth, lies and migrants

It was a privilege to be a keynote speaker at the USDAW Southern Divisional Conference in November 2 01 4. USDAW designed their conference around Truth, Lies and Migrants and used the booklet as a tool to work with activists on the issue. In the picture Rosaria Sansone (centre) was awarded the USDAW Southern Division’s Frank Soan Shield for her brilliant organising work in the Tesco Gatwick store. Divisional Officer Sue Merrell (left) said “Rosaria has gone above and beyond in her organising achievements. Hers would have been a great success story on its own but given that English is not her first language her efforts have been superb!” contributing to the national Steering Group We attended the rededication of Sylvia As this Regional Council year began the media are pleased that unions have distributed 44,000 for Trade Union Friends of Searchlight, Pankhurst’s Anti Air War Memorial in polemic attacking “migrants” was ramped up. copies of the booklet to their officers, reps and support for Hope not Hate in its Redbridge ( pic above left shows Kate Connelly The SERTUC Executive Committee agreed to activists to support their work ensuring that community-based work, publicising the Unite speaking at the rededication ) and continued fund the publication of a SERTUC version of reality enters the debate on migration. And, of Against Fascism annual conference and the our work supporting the South East and the South West Region TUC’s excellent course, the booklet is available on-line where it Stand Up to Racism march and rally in East trade union networks, SETUN and publication Truth, Lies and Migrants . Thanks to has been accessed countless times. London, 21 March. More practical work ETUN. We were pleased to join ETUN my colleague Nigel Costley, regional secretary Following publication of the booklet we were included the circulation of tens of thousands women activists at the Cambridge Women of the SWTUC for his support in this venture, very happy to work with Professor Catherine and to SERTUC regional campaigns and policy of our Truth, Lies and Migrants booklets and of the World events in March. Their work Pope from the University of Southampton’s attending counter-demonstrations against ensured a trade union stall that attracted a officer Laurie Heselden who did all the Work Futures Research Centre to help deliver the EDL, such as the one in Stevenage in lot of interest as well as the opportunity to research to translate the south west booklet a symposium: Migrants’ Work Futures . A wide into SERTUC’s reality – a complex task as range of speakers addressed an equally wide June – ‘they shall not pass’ is still our maxim. speak on the importance of unions to statistics for our region come in threes – to range of relevant topics: SERTUC remained committed to women’s daily lives. cover London, the South East, and the East of I Professor David Owen on Political problems internationalism. Examples include The essence of SERTUC’s campaign work England. And many more thanks to SERTUC and migrant workers collaborative research and networking with has been the fight against austerity, for social volunteer Mike Carver who used his technical I Dr Julie Vullnetari on Immigration, borders and and design skills to produce the print-ready sister confederations, many affiliations to justice for all, and for trade union rights. We ‘global care chains’ artwork. organisations such as Cuba Solidarity have supported the People’s Assembly I Dr Ana Margheritis on International migration Since then we have participated in several anti- Campaign, the Regional Council making a Against Austerity, the People’s Charter and management, opportunities for multinational firm statement on the political position in the Campaign for Trade Union Freedom as EDL demonstrations under the slogan “We are cooperation Gaza, intensive work with union core elements of our campaign work and the town under threat ” and of course two I Dr Tom Vickers on Refugees, asylum policy and former Tory MPs in our region have resigned to the working class confederations in France and Belgium, the foundations of our belief that a better be elected as UKIP MPs. And the leader of I Megan Dobney on Truth, Lies and Migrants through to the pure joy of being invited by world is possible and trade unionism is at UKIP is standing in the general election in the CGT to join the ‘caravan’ that drove in the heart of that vision. South Thanet, also in our region. front of the Tour de France cyclists as they Of course, it’s not only the popularist and far- rode from Cambridge to London ( pic top right that spouts anti-migrant rhetoric so we right ).

12 13 SERTUC unionlearn unionlearn conference and TU education

Trade Union education reps) for encouraging peers to attend Partners: Regionally, there are 12 partnerships courses. We sincerely thank you all. with Colleges of Further Education and the Developments in the Representatives’ training London Workers’ Education Association to programme: New materials have been provide TUC education programmes for produced for the Stage 1 Union SERTUC unionlearn’s 2 01 4 November union representatives. Due to reductions in Representatives course embracing the role conference was attended by over 100 Union their Adult Skills Budget, City College of the Union Learning Representative, Learning Reps and was an enjoyable and Norwich has not offered courses for trade Employment Law Certificate and the celebratory event. union representatives since January 2 01 5. Occupational Health and Safety Diploma. Mary Bousted ( above right ), general secretary of TUC qualifications: All TUC education courses The TUC Stage 1 course for union ATL and chair of the unionlearn board, gave the are accredited by the National Open representatives has been the backbone of keynote speech focussing on the state of work College Network. Accreditation is an TUC Education for over 30 years and is in the UK, including poor workplace relations, essential part of our offer and feedback from regularly updated. The focus of the course is lack of workers’ voice, low pay, and poor learners shows that it is valued highly. The the workplace, and the skills and knowledge progression opportunities. QCF allows union reps to gain trade union needed by new union reps. The aims of the Quality Awards were presented to Frizlands qualifications at Award, Certificate and course are to help build the union team; to Learning Centre ( top left ), Creative Learning Diploma levels, which are fully funded. build union organisation by getting members Partners ( left ) and The Skills Partnership ( near bottom left ). involved in the union; talking to members to TUC Representatives’ training programme: The conference heard from Liz Obertelli In 2 01 3, together with our partner providers, help deal with their problems, helping members access training; meeting (above ) from the Barnardos Skills Academy, and we provided training for 13,555 Union from Gareth Williams and Beverley Nolker management to discuss and agree progress Representatives, Health and Safety (below left ) from the POA’s learning centre in Representatives and Union Learning on work-related issues and keeping in touch Sheppey. with wider issues. Representatives. The 2 01 4 figure will be Unionlearn officers Stuart Barber and Adrian confirmed in May and early indications show The latest edition of the Stage 1 materials Ryan ( below ) presented a session on Numeracy that the programme has held up well places a greater emphasis on the use of in the Workplace, and this was followed by although there may be a small reduction in electronic resources and also embeds key informal learning activities on local history, sign reps trained with the pressures being placed elements of the ULR role that is so language, and the Energy Best Deal. p i c

on time off arrangements being cited as the important for union teams at all levels. s :

J e

main reason for this. However, the volume of s s

The TUC Employment Law Certificate is H

reps trained continues to be high compared u designed for union representatives who have r d

j

with other regions. The resilience of the e

already completed the TUC Stage 1 course s s programme in the Region speaks volumes @ j and its principal concern is how knowledge e s s

for the endless commitment of tutors; the h of and confidence in using employment law u r d

support of providing colleges and the WEA; . c

can improve workplace bargaining. o and the support of affiliates (and in particular m

14 15 London unemployed strategies (LUS)

Claimants’ survey and ‘Stand up for your organised, self-sustaining unemployed rights’ sessions support/campaign groups in every borough. SERTUC unionlearn The LUS Claimants Survey is the major They can then act as representatives in organised a learning festival work which we completed towards the end discussions with Jobcentre Plus, Work on the Isle of Wight in February of last year. We surveyed around 400 Programme providers and DWP attended by over 400 people. claimants across London. Key findings were: management in a similar way to which trade With the POA, Unite and USDAW, we union reps negotiate with management at I around 40% of claimants feel they are their workplaces. offered four days during half term (with art activities for treated with contempt by Jobcentre Plus children) demonstrating some of the opportunities for and the Work Programme National unemployed workers’ conference learning for adults on the Island. I an even larger number (around 55%) The first national conference of this kind for who feel the Information, Advice and many years was held at the TUC in February. The Diploma in Occupational Health and Union Professionals: As with the reps’ Guidance they get on careers, jobs and LUS was part of the organising committee. Safety’s fourth edition was published in headcount above, the figure for Union training is minimal The day was well attended by trades December 2 01 3. This year long diploma Professionals trained in the Region will not unionists both employed and unemployed continues to be essential for the be finalised until May. In 2 01 3, 162 staff I the large number of over-50 claimants from all over the country. Key points of development of the higher level skills employed by affiliates were trained. who feel they’re perceived as being ‘on consensus emerged from the day about the needed by trade union health and safety the scrapheap’ by JCP and employers The focus of the Union Professional basic elements of a National Welfare representatives to deal with challenges Development programme is on short, sharp I the increased pressure, even on people Charter. These included: emanating from deregulation proposals. briefings on key areas such as Using Social who are older, highly experienced and I an end to the current sanctions regime Key resources and e-notes: TUC Education Media for Campaigning, and Employment qualified in specific fields, to take any job has developed a number of key resources in Law Updates with optional follow-up under any terms and conditions under I no more Work Capability Assessments the last year. These include new editions of sessions being delivered nationally. threat of sanctions. I an unconditional Citizens Income for all the Stage 1 course for Union Women Officers Summer School: The tenth From this, a number of recommendations I trades union rights and representation for Representatives and the Employment Law Women Officers Summer School took place arose. A key one was the need for training the unemployed Certificate as well as the updated version of in July 2 01 4. The reviews from the week for claimants on knowing your rights and I campaign for a minimum wage of at least Out at Work which covers LGBT issues. were excellent and expressed the how to assert them. Acting on this, LUS has £1 0 per hour to include apprenticeships A key development is also the production of empowerment and commitment that developed ‘Stand Up For Your Rights’ and other types of training the hugely popular e-notes (online, short, women officers gained from the week. The sessions which we have piloted in interactive briefings) which are an essential 201 5 Summer School will be held from 13 to Southwark, where the council has given us a I scrap Workfare – voluntary work should resource for all trade union reps. They are a 17 July, contact Julie Lawrence, grant to work on this issue. The sessions be completely voluntary and not great resource to help reps keep up to date [email protected] for more information. have been going well, with lively discussion substitute for jobs that should be paid at on workplace issues. Each e-note is a self- amongst claimants, benefits advisors and least the minimum wage. And finally: Thank you to all the course co- campaigning organisations like LUS about contained module that contains a mixture of These and other demands arising from the ordinators and tutors who do an excellent the issues affecting them and how to tackle text, video and quizzes. They take between Conference will be developed into a job in working regionally with the TUC to them collectively. The aim is to build up self- 20 and 45 minutes to complete and can be Charter, to be promoted through trades returned to as many times as you like. provide training for our representatives. 16 17 Disabled Workers’ Network

This has been a very full year on key issues can carry out their caring responsibilities. for disabled workers. The Bedroom Tax disregarding the Disabled Living Allowance being replaced by accommodation needs of disabled people, Personal Independence Payment: the such as needing space for special equipment. network does not have an issue with ATOS The terrible and very serious issue of unions, the Labour Party, mass media and disciplinary action. However, the union will employees administering it, rather the issue is Disability Hate Crime. For victims of it, and a other means in the run-up to the General support our initiatives in whatever way with the PIP itself. Successful appeals have fear of it resulting in disabled people not Election. possible, and in particular the process of been made against PIPs being stopped and doing everyday things such as using public developing claimants groups who can act as there is the serious matter of disabled transport because of the perception that if Relations with the TUC and unions a lever on local JCP managers to be more people not receiving benefits for months I wait at the bus stop or the railway station In an increasing culture of minimum wage, supportive and less punitive in their attitudes while these appeals are being conducted. disability hate crime can happen, or when zero hours contracts, the links between to both claimants and staff. We have actively continued to support the going round a shopping centre. those on low and no pay become ever Unite Community: LUS is working well with work of Disabled People Against the Cuts. There is a serious lack of caring services closer. The reserve army of unemployed the officer covering these issues in London The network has been actively working with support from local councils for disabled ‘flexible labour’ is increasingly used to drive and he is running training sessions for the SERTUC Transport Industries Network people. For instance one hour or less of down wages and erode permanent full-time London members on benefits issues using on key issues such as access for disabled support either to do some household jobs. With the onset of Universal Credit, the information packs we compiled for our people to all types of transport. For instance cleaning or shopping for a disabled person. people receiving both in- and out-of-work ‘Stand Up For Your Rights’ sessions. underground and railway stations having lifts That can make a difference to whether or benefits will be tested on their efforts to find Unison: LUS and Unison London Region are so that they are accessible to physically not a disabled person has the ability to go full-time work, and could have their benefits disabled passengers. Also outer urban and out to work. stopped if they fail the tests. This is why LUS jointly organising a meeting for their unemployed members. Over 100 of them rural routes using buses that have ramps, so A serious issue that we have started will continue to support joint initiatives with that they can be used by disabled people. the TUC such as their Decent Jobs Week took part our Claimants Survey and we will developing a campaign on is pensions, in the and encourage workers both on low and be using these findings as a basis for our There has been the issue of reasonable context of allowing greater flexibility on no pay to come to our Stand Up For Your discussion. adjustments in the workplace for people when disabled people and those with long Rights training sessions. with visible and invisible disabilities. This term illnesses can start to be paid their The future covers the right to homeworking as well as pensions. PCS : we are developing good relations with At the time of writing, the future of LUS in physical equipment. The SERTUC Disabled Workers Network is PCS and are now in regular communication terms of funding hangs in the balance. Our with their National DWP Officer with The serious issue of trigger points for very proud of the work that it has done on main funders, Trust for London, remain warnings for sick leave from employers issues and campaigns over the last year. responsibility for Jobcentre Plus staff. PCS supportive of our work and we await the has stressed the problems in encouraging impacting on disabled people. As well as outcome of our 2 01 5 bid. concerns about employers restricting overt staff support for initiatives like ours, Damian Ibison, CWU Chair given the pressure they are under to meet Nick Phillips disability leave. Community and Volunteer Organiser Raj Gill, GLATUC Vice Chair sanctions targets under the threat of The issue of carers of disabled people being Christopher Miles, PCS Secretary allowed flexible working patterns so they Marsha De Cordova, Unite Assistant Secretary

18 19 The panel at the open meeting “Women’s emancipation before, during and after World Women’s Rights War I ”, left to right Marjorie Broughton, Committee Carolyn Simpson, Chris Coates, Mary Davis

Our first formal meeting this year saw Sarah In September, we had an open meeting at prostitution. It threw respectable Victorians Green from the coalition End Violence Congress House with Professor Mary Davis into a state of moral panic, and achieved, as a Against Women (EVAW) give an informative and Chris Coates (formerly the TUC consequence, the implementation of the talk about the practical and political work of librarian) speaking to us about Women’s impact on the postholder and how Criminal Law Amendment Act of 1885, its members, in ensuring our government emancipation before, during and after World colleagues can recognise and support which raised the age of consent for girls has a plan to deal with the United Nations War 1. This was (again) very well attended Autistic people at work. It was clear to us all from 13 to 16. Convention on the Elimination of all forms and both Mary and Chris gave us all so how little we know about this condition and At that time women were considered the of Discrimination Against Women much information and also their insights into Janine runs day long courses in conjunction property of men, and children living in (CEDAW). She explained Why violence how the ‘Great War’ affected women right with the WEA for anyone interested in brothels were considered to be criminals. against women is a trade union issue . The across society – including the impact on the learning more about Autism and how it However, children’s societies and Dr appalling facts and figures she gave should movement for votes for women. manifests itself. Barnardo began to change this terminology. encourage all women to become politically We held our first ever Women’s Seminar in involved. In January, we welcomed Sally Cass from the Today the Nordic model criminalises the November at Unite’s offices in Moreland Josephine Butler Society. Josephine Butler, buyer, but it is the pimps, procurers and We then had a ‘full house’ for our walking Street (and thanks to Unite for the provision Octavia Hill and others took on the cause of traffickers that need to be stopped. In tour of the National Portrait Gallery when of their facilities free of charge). Speakers ‘fallen women’ which was not a popular issue Denmark prostitution is regulated, it is work our fantastic Blue Badge guide, Rachel Kolsky, included Megan Dobney, Scarlet Harris from in polite society. In 1864-8 the Contagious and taxed. In other countries the social gave us an excellent and very informative the TUC, and Kat Banyard from UK Diseases Acts were passed allowing the services help only those wanting to leave. In guided tour of the portraits of the Feminista. We then held a number of police to take any women off the street and Iceland it is considered to be gender based outstanding women hanging in the workshops, hosted by Caroline Underhill have her forcibly examined by a surgeon. violence. numerous galleries. All the sisters who were from Thompson’s Solicitors on Equal Pay – Thousands of women were tortured in this In the UK we now have the Modern Slavery present were highly vocal in their praise for where is it? , Anita Wright from the National way. The remedy of using silver nitrate and Bill and it is estimated that there are 10,000 Rachel’s tour and the amount of information Assembly of Women explaining what the mercury adversely affected teeth, gums and slaves in the UK. The work to eliminate she was able to impart over the two hours NAW stands for and do, and Susan Murray bones. Unfortunately the first woman violence against/towards sex workers we were there – thanks again, Rachel, for a from Unite on Health & Safety – specifically doctor, Elizabeth Garrett, supported these continues. great evening from all of us ( pic below ). relating to women. Finally, we were delighted Acts! Josephine travelled and spoke in to welcome Kate Smurthwaite, a well known France, Italy and Germany about brothels The WRC wishes to express its thanks to left wing feminist comedian and political and prostitution. and visited the workhouse the SERTUC office for all their hard work activist – who closed the meeting in real in Liverpool where fallen women were given and support over the past 12 months and style! All who attended expressed an interest the most degrading and awful tasks. She especially to Joanne Williams as ‘our’ in seeing a similar event take place this year started refuges for them when released and administrator – Jo, you’re a star!! and we hope to be able to repeat the even took some into her own home. Carolyn Simpson, Unite Chair seminar’s success in 2 01 5. A journalist, W T Stead, went to London and Marjorie Broughton, Unite, and Marion Wilson, NUT Vice Chairs At our scheduled committee meeting in late bought a girl for £1 5. He wrote The Maiden Dorothy Amos, NUT Secretary November, we heard Janine Booth from the Tribute of Modern Babylon about child RMT speak about Autism in the workplace , its

20 21 Celebrating Claudia Jones event Race Relations left projected image of Claudia Jones with the steel band Committee right Betty Joseph, Alex Pascal, Mary Davis

The Race Relations Committee had 54 Sherwood and Alex Pascal OBE. The event sister campaign that we hoped to work with. more work on capacity building for the delegates this year from 12 trade unions, (the was attended by 200 people, many of whom So this element of the committee’s committee and communications between aggregate membership of those unions have sent very positive messages of support programme of work is ‘work in progress’. delegates. comprised the vast majority of trade unions’ to us. The event was also a celebration of Anti-Racism Anti-Fascism: during this year the In addition to our work programme, we total membership in the region), and two International Women’s Day and it is just the British Social Attitudes Survey found that sought to be flexible, and to respond to new delegates from County Associations of beginning of our efforts to secure a greater one third of Britons admitted to some initiatives and ‘hot’ priorities. Robin Sivapalan, Trades Councils. The average attendance at recognition of Claudia’s beliefs, commitment degree of racial prejudice. We saw, and Unite Community, spoke at our meeting in our quarterly meetings was 19. to organising and of her achievements. We welcomed, the continued collapse of the March 2 01 5, about the Stop Welfare Benefits The committee adopted a programme of publicised the Union History website and EDL but we were greatly concerned by the Sanctions day of action, 19 March, and we work and this formed the spine of our Black History Events organised by sister piecemeal advance of UKIP. We committed helped mobilise for the local protests. We activity, as follows: organisations. one of our meetings to discussing what our wrote to national TUC about the kidnap of Support, or instigate, a campaign, or campaigns, Reach out to young people: delegates to the unions and trades councils might do to young women and girls by Boko Haram in relating to positive images and true facts about committee made personal commitments to expose UKIP’s bigotry? We publicised Nigeria, and to Sussex Constatbulary about migration: examples of our work include work in their communities, reaching out to counter-demonstrations against racist community policing. We circulated promoting SERTUC’s much-acclaimed Truth, young people and organising activity, demonstrations, such as the EDL information about the hyper-controversial Lies and Migrants myth busting booklet researching young people’s core issues, demonstration in Stevenage. We promoted Exhibit B exhibition at the Barbican, which within trade unions and our communities making links between trade unions and the work of Hope not Hate, of Searchlight, was eventually cancelled. and cascading SERTUC’s migration facts e- groups led by young people, making rapid of Show Racism the Red Card and of Unite Patricia Davis was the SERTUC Observer to bulletin. We invited Anne Stoltenberg and responses to local media about issues of Against Fascism, including the Stand Up to the TUC Black Worker’s Conference 2 01 4. Nazek Ramadan, from Migrant Voice, to our concern to young workers, urging young Racism march and demonstration, 21 March, people to register to vote, promoting Young in London. Our music and politics event Lastly, the committee wishes to go on the December meeting to speak about building record as commemorating the sad death of positive attitudes to migration and giving Worker’s Month in November, promoting called Woody Guthrie: the long road to trade union membership, and providing Peekskill was a prelude to the ‘Stand Up to one of our long-standing delegates, Linda migrants an effective voice. We supported Kietz. Linda had been a fierce fighter for the mobilisation for the demonstration 31 training opportunities and mentoring. Racism’ demonstration, and was attended by over 120 supporters and activists. The equality agendas, against racism and January at Channel 4 against the making of Organise an open meeting with the SERTUC discrimination and for our belief that ‘Black the deeply offensive Immigration Street . Women’s Rights Committee about ‘Black and committee was represented at the St Patrick’s Day Parade in London. fist, white fist; tie them together, and that Organise a Black History event about Claudia Asian women and feminism’: the committee makes a hammer’. Jones: this was held in March 2 01 5 at welcomed Zita Holbourne, from the Build membership and activity of the Race national TUC’s Race Relations Committee, Relations Committee and cement connections Claude James, TSSA Chair Congress House, with a steel band, it was Lorraine Eytle, NUT and Joe Welch, Unite and PCS, to lead a discussion on this theme. between its delegates: we organised a visit to chaired by Betty Joseph, from our Vice Chairs committee, with contributions from Further work has been frustrated by what Black Cultural Archives in Brixton, which was Mark Benjamin, PCS and Austin Harney, PCS Pat Davis, Professor Mary Davis, Marika seems to be the collapse of the network/ not well supported, and we need to do Co-secretaries

22 23 Cultural & Leisure Industries International Committee Committee Throughout the year we invited a number of speakers from a variety of campaigns to speak, including Louise Richards, Nicaragua We have been pleased to provide support Solidarity Campaign; Lucy Anderson MEP; Dr to Unite members at the Dulwich Picture Aidan McQuade, Anti-Slavery International; Gallery successfully opposing management’s Shane Enright, Amnesty International; Owen threats to make over half of the current Tudor, TUC Head of European Union and visitor services team redundant, as part of a International Relations; Laura Alvarez, Justice cost-cutting programme. for Mexico Now; Kiri Tunks, Action for Palestinian Children. In addition to these campaigns, CLIC has We have also taken reports from committee also given support to campaigns at the V&A members on the work in their own unions Museum, Kew Gardens and the British and had a report back from Unite and NUT Library – and the Musicians Union petition members on their delegations to Palestine. to Save the War Horse Band. The committee co-hosted a meeting on TTIP CLIC has also supported events and shows with SERTUC’s Transport Industries about the lives of trade unionists – both at Network in October 2 01 4 with John Hilary work and in the community. In line with this, from War on Want, Jean Butcher (Unison), and Richard Howitt MEP. we worked with the Red Ladder company The committee agreed its work plan and In a long and hard fought campaign by PCS on the staging of their February production The committee was pleased that on 17 decided we would work with affiliated at the National Gallery in an effort to stop We’re Not Going Back – to commemorate December 2014 President Obama finally unions, visual and performance artists, the out-sourcing of 400 jobs, the branch has released Gerardo Hernandez, Ramon the 30th anniversary of the miners’ strike. academics and students to develop a worked with supporters to bring a Labañino and Antonio Guerrero to join René campaign aimed at opposing the cuts to arts particularly creative approach to their We’re also involved with the organisation of González and Renando Gonzalez and that budgets arising from the government’s campaign. Over 40,000 signatures have been the London Labour Film Festival 2 01 5. The the Miami 5 are now reunited with their austerity agenda and making the case for secured for a union petition. festival aims to show films about ordinary families back home in Cuba. SERTUC has greater investment in the creative and leisure people and will be held in September. played a consistent role in supporting the In a dramatic development, PCS rep, Candy campaign for their release alongside the industries. The campaign is badged around Udwin, was suspended by management on CLIC has had a relatively successful year in affiliated unions, the TUC and the Cuba the theme of show culture some love . what the union describe as “trumped up” terms of having a more visible presence and Solidarity Campaign. In support of this, we organised, in March, a charges. The campaign for her reinstatement providing support for the campaigns being During the year SERTUC gave its support to conference on the future of arts and culture. has been supported by both the SERTUC undertaken by affiliated unions. This has the 10th Annual Latin America Conference It was a superb day and included ( pic above ) Executive Committee and CLIC. resulted in growth both in membership and which took place in Congress House. The activity. We want to build on this success in conference had the biggest attendance and is us demonstrating at the British Museum. We are pleased to report BECTU’s success 201 5 and we encourage all unions and now an established date in the diary. The 11th As part of the CLIC work plan, we have in achieving the Living Wage at the Brixton CATCs to fill their delegate entitlement. Latin America Conference will be on worked with unions to determine the Ritzy. This was mirrored in the agreement Saturday 28 November at Congress House. appropriate kind of support ranging from agreed with the Curzon cinema chain. Barbara White, MU Chair actively supporting protests and BECTU are now seeking recognition at Tony Lennon, BECTU Vice Chair Tom Taylor, PCS Secretary Bernard Regan, NUT Chair demonstrations to circulating details of other cinemas in the Picturehouse Group. Alice Dupont, Unite Assistant Secretary Jayne Fisher, Unite Vice Chair campaigns and petitions. Martin Andrews, PCS Secretary

24 25 Young Workers’ Network

After the graduation of the previous website YoungWorkersMonth.org run by the Special thanks to Nicola Hawkins for above ), addressed apprentice Chefs at Mid network a brand new team took over and network. organising and Lauren Usher for organising Kent College Maidstone. got straight to work at the most well Using our facebook page, Young Workers TUC funding. attended annual general meeting in our AGM 2 01 4 Month, we attracted over 13,000 readers to TUC Britain needs a pay rise demo history. our blogs. At least two blogs were featured We held a very well attended annual general The work of the network continues to on the HuffPo and The Guardian Comment In October 2 01 4 network delegates took meeting in 2 01 4, with speakers from Ritzy challenge the trade union movement to is Free websites. part in the demonstration under their Campaign for Living Wage, RMT TfL and at individual unions’ banners. Our network workshops from David Braniff-Herbert provide vital spaces for young members to We believe that this project lays down a come together and build power. The secretary Nicola Hawkins was featured on delegates decided what action they wanted foundation for a robust programme that Sky News (in the studio) and addressed the to take over the forthcoming year. network, whilst providing its own campaigns, seeks to develop young writers into online develops the skills of young trade unionists rally making it an incredibly proud moment media sections such as Comment is Free for our network. Slack and Google Hangouts who then go back to strengthen affiliates’ and HuffPo. We will be pursuing funding for Slack – a brilliant solution to our young members’ sections. such a programme in 2 01 5. Howl for housing communication issues provided to us by At TUC Congress 2 01 4, the network’s Special thanks to Harriet Vickers, Kyle In November 2 01 4, we supported GMB Equity Young Members – is a campaigns were noted as ground breaking Williamson and David Braniff-Herbert for Young London’s Housing Campaign by taking smartphone/web app that provides groups and innovative in the TUC Young Workers leading the project and providing editorial part in their demonstration with Generation with a secure space to post messages, have motion to Congress. support. Thanks to all the young writers for Rent calling for an end to ‘revenge evictions’. conversations and attach content. It has TUC Young Workers Month providing content and Red Pepper magazine Over 50 people took part and our network brought the officers closer together and for guest editing. officers and delegates featured in Vice created a much more transparent process of The annual trade union festival for young Very special thanks to the SERTUC magazine and The Guardian twice as well as decision making. workers founded by this network in 2 01 2 on other news sites. went national in 2 01 4 and obtained the Executive Committee and trade union Google Hangouts – a free video conference branches from GMB and TSSA, and Bromley resources it truly deserved. March for homes facility has meant more regular meetings and trades councikl who provided crucial funding increased delivery of work. The best thing Our contribution was our boldest yet: a for promotion. Delegates took part in the March for about it is you can have a limitless amount of young writers’ programme aimed at building Homes in January 2 01 5. Housing remains a people taking part from their smartphones. young trade union voices in online content. Made in Dagenham film night key issue for young people and our affiliates’ Our ground breaking programme gave 16 We organised and delivered a film night that young members’ sections. young people the chance to write a blog on attracted several new people. With Leon Brumant, RMT Chair Fair Pay Fortnight stalls Tamsin Clube, NASUWT Vice Chair issues relating to trade unions whilst getting speakers from the Ritzy campaign for a editorial support and facebook advertising Several delegates took part in the stalls Nicola Hawkins, Equity Secretary Living Wage we watched Made in Dagenham Jon Warner, GMB Assistant Secretary to increase reach. We provided this on the and had a ruddy good time. across the region. Chair, Elliot Dean ( pic

26 27 Public Services Transport Committee Industries Network

right Faryal Velmi, director of Transport for All at TIN’s February conference

With the threats from this government to national demonstration on 18 October 2 01 4 Another successful year for TIN, with all four Many rail franchises were unilaterally our public services continuing to intensify I Support for/promotion of a SERTUC scheduled meetings held and well-attended, extended by the government to prevent a across the SERTUC region, the Public TTIP event on 23 October 2 01 4 and plans being developed for an important possible Labour administration taking control Services Committee has again sustained its I Support for/promotion of a SERTUC conference on accessibility and rural and of them after the General Election – many work in publicising and supporting the Education and Election 2 01 5 event in small urban areas transport held in February of those ‘extensions’ were uncompetitive, all campaigns and struggles being fought by our February 2 01 5 201 5 with representatives from unions, were awarded to the same managements, affiliates as well as building support for TUC I Support for/promotion of the 2 01 5 May pensioners, passenger groups and disability often at enhanced revenue arrangements demonstrations and events. Day march and rally organisations. which will steal even more from passengers. The committee met in June (the AGM I A Labour MP to be invited to attend a Several guest speakers attended our The UK’s share of Eurostar was put up for where thanks were given to Mark Campbell, PSC meeting (Tessa Jowell pic above ) meetings – Jim McAuslan, general secretary sale in 2 01 4, amid great secrecy over what UCU and Sasha Pearce, Unison, the outgoing I A PSC general elections hustings event to BALPA, in the summer to give us the pilots’ exactly was being sold and under which vice chair and assistant secretary be held March/April 2 01 5 view on aviation issues, and Jayesh Mistry terms. Neither the government nor its respectively), September, December 2 01 4 I Liaison with other SERTUC sub-groups, from Unite (a bus driver on secondment to bankers responded to requests for clarity. and in March 2 01 5. As well as receiving unemployed workers groups and others in the union) in the autumn on the London relation to campaigns and events. London Underground ended up breaking all regular reports from affiliates on campaigns bus drivers’ dispute over differential wage the agreements with unions and over-riding and disputes, the Committee has taken In particular the TTIP event in October 2 01 4 rates for doing the same job in the same ongoing talks to enforce closing ticket offices forward an agreed workplan based around featured a guest speaker from the PSC (Jean buses on the same roads, the variation in 2 01 5, regardless of no proven safety case campaigning on public sector issues which Butcher, Unison); the Education and Election ranging from a basic £17 ,000 to £34,000pa. and strong public and staff opposition. This includes specific actions together with the event duly took place in February 2 01 5, We also heard from Colin Potter (Unite) fight is not yet over: much may depend on production of dedicated materials: sponsored by the PSC with a workshop and Oliver Richardson (Unite/ITF) on the outcome of the London Mayoral I A commitment to the TUC Future That chaired by PSC chair Martin Powell-Davies; a aspects of aviation and government air policy election in 2 01 6. Works strategy as underpinning the work PSC campaign leaflet Britain Needs A Pay Rise – basically there isn’t one. London’s three has been produced and distributed initially at key airports are all individually-owned, some Counties are cutting back transport budgets, I The production of a dedicated PSC but the rebellion has started – in Herts campaign leaflet themed around attacks on the above Education and Election event and with overseas interests, and all three electronically; and plans are underway compete with each other, and with alone the public consultation resulted in public services 13,000 objections to the Council’s plans, I Ongoing promotion of events/disputes relating to May Day 2 01 5 and the Southend and Luton Airports. The Davies arrangements for a pre-General Election Inquiry into developing London’s Airports while elsewhere the resistance is smaller but based on the SERTUC newsletter and other becoming more entrenched. information provided by/sought from unions hustings event at Congress House. continues to run at a snail’s pace, artificially Roger Sutton, GLATUC Chair I Encouragement to unions to support Martin Powell-Davies, NUT Chair constrained by the present government’s Mark Steele, ASLEF Vice Chair campaigns and to participate in trades Colin Bull, Unite Vice Chair reporting schedule of after the 2 01 5 General Andy Thomas, PCS Secretary Election. Given the importance of aviation in Joel Kosminsky, TSSA Secretary councils Gwen Cook, GLATUC and Mike Hedges, Unite I Support for/promotion of the TUC Dan Peppiatt, Unison Assistant Secretary the region we would encourage more representation from the sector. Assistant Secretaries

28 29 Z p P H i B c I O G

T N O I E G W R T A O P H M Y LGBT A Construction Campaign S K O T K I E W

Network I Task Group C Z

The SERTUC LGBT Network year started In concert with TUC LGBT Committee we Over the last year the committee has had with our well-attended AGM in May, with a held consultation meetings on Pride London well attended meetings despite the talk by photographer and Unite London & to review the principles agreed in 2 01 2. One difficulties construction workers have in Eastern Region LGBT Committee member proposal was that Lesbians & Gays Support obtaining paid leave from employers. These Manu Valcarce on his exhibition Out of Sight, the Miners lead the 2 01 5 Pride London have produced lively and productive debates Out of Mind, shown throughout the TUC march as it would be 30 years since the on matters affecting our industry. LGBT Conference 2 01 4. Manu spent a NUM led the 1985 march. We are pleased This committee has continued to support weekend following a group of young LGBT to say that LGSM with the band from the London Hazards Safety Activists meetings the Blacklist Support Group and the (the start of a regular forum) and the people living in the poverty-stricken seaside film Solidarity will be leading the 2 01 5 march. Construction Safety Campaign. It has also town of Margate in austerity Britain. National Hazards Conference. On Workers On World AIDS Day (1 December) the campaigned against bogus self-employment, Memorial Day committee members were The AGM also heard from Dr Peter Purton, network held a joint meeting with ACT-UP the use of labour-only agencies and umbrella among trade union activists and officers who TUC LGBT policy officer, who praised the London with Theo Gordon and Sean companies. Members of the committee have demonstrated outside the Qatari Embassy work of the SERTUC LGBT Network since McGovern. That day’s edition of the Morning attended and given support to workers against the insidious kafalla system of its re-launch in 2006. Star had a feature article by Theo Gordon to demonstrating outside Balfour Beatty’s employment which has led to the deaths of We held a successful fringe meeting at the mark World AIDS Day. Following the offices in their dispute over terms and hundreds of workers, many on the 2022 TUC LGBT Conference in June on Putting meeting attendees were invited to join the conditions. The committee have for some World Cup-related construction sites. In Politics back into Pride , with David Sharkey, Let’s talk about Gay Sex & Drugs – World AIDS years warned against the use of umbrella February this year members attended a Unite, and Fernando Mariano, Equity, from Day event at Man Bar in London. companies and members were happy to silent vigil outside St Pancras Coroner’s ACT-UP London. David also addressed the For LGBT History Month 2 01 5 the network attend the lobby of Parliament demanding Court ( pic above ) at the start of the inquest TUC LGBT Conference as a young LGBT joined up with LGSM who have come changes to the law so these working into the death of Rene Tkacik, a construction trade unionist. together to hold an event to mark the 30th arrangements can be eliminated. worker who was killed by falling concrete on In August there was a letter from Anton anniversary and the connection made Members of the committee attended The the Crossrail’s Fisher Street site in March Johnson, the LGBT member of the SERTUC between the miners in struggle and the March for Homes which called for an end to 201 4. EC, in the Morning Star pointing to the fact (then) Lesbian & Gay community. The event’s sanctions on tenants, a stop to the This committee also noted that recently that trade unions had a large and visible focus was an art interpretation by a young demolition of quality council housing, and a local authorities are beginning to realise that presence on the Pride march through LGBT artist James Cabaniuk in Congress programme to be put in place for the privatising public services has been inefficient Brighton. Complimentary copies of the House with Mike Jackson (LGSM) and the construction of new council housing. and uneconomic and have therefore started Morning Star were made available on the SERTUC LGBT network secretary, David Members were also in attendance at the to replace outside contractors with Direct march and venues. Sharkey speaking ( pic above: James Cabaniuk, Britain Needs a Pay Rise march and the Labour Organisations for construction and Mike Jackson, David Sharkey ). London May Day Rally. In September we met to build for the TUC maintenance work. October 2 01 4 demonstration, chaired by The committee has welcomed the revival of No one goes to work to die. Dorothy Amos, NUT Co-Chair SERTUC vice-president Linda Perks, and The London Hazards Centre Trust and were Andy Stennings, Unison Co-Chair pleased that Paul Street attended one of our Kevin Williamson, Unite Chair with the assistant editor of QX Magazine David Sharkey, Unite Secretary Tom Kelly, Unite Secretary Patrick Cash who gave an excellent speech. quarterly meetings. Members attended

30 31 Trades union councils

left Bedford’s May Day line up above supporting public service workers

banners to the salsa band, to the heart- to a campaign to stop the closure of the warming, mind-stretching speeches and Civic Centre in Dagenham and initiated a conversations. A day to remember the public consultation, with 1,400 residents in sacrifices of others ”. Teacher, NUT favour of the Civic Centre remaining at the There are 60+ trades councils in the Region; 2,000 leaflets. We also supported a UK heart of our community providing Council this is a snapshot of some activities. Uncut action against a retailer in Newbury, In September members joined The People’s March for the NHS in London to mark the services ( pic left ). The trades council voiced Andover trades council managed an protesting over the tax avoidance by big end of a 300 mile march organised by a its opposition to the £54.3 million cuts to impressive number of leafleting events and firms ( pic above left ). group of mums from Darlington. services and jobs in the Borough, supporting other activities throughout 2 01 4. Our Finally, we were pleased to offer some help an alternative Budget that would not punish campaign themes were on the cost of living to Winchester TUC in its inaugural stages. In October the we attended an inspiring the poorest and most vulnerable members and the demand for a Living Wage, and we Andover TUC goes from strength to lecture at the Barking Theatre organised by of our community. tied these into our ongoing fight against the Barking & Dagenham NUT in memory of strength and looks forward to future work in Bedford trades council leafleted Bedford Rail bedroom tax. Unite kindly provided the teenager Anthony Walker, who was killed this General Election year. In solidarity! station on two occasions as part of the literature, such as Campaigning Against the in a brutal racially motivated attack in Action for Rail campaign. We ran our usual Bedroom Tax and Arm Yourselves Against Debt , Barking & Dagenham trades council joined Liverpool in 2005. Oona King, shadow International Workers Day celebration, which we distributed to a receptive members from GMB, Unison, Unite and education spokesperson in the House of aimed at giving confidence to local trade audience. In return, we eagerly promoted NUT branches in Barking and Dagenham in Lords shared an inspiring personal story unionists especially those who are involved Unite Community following an interesting July 2 01 4 with 1.4 million public sector from her own family’s struggle for equality in action related to the government’s cut talk by Kelly Tomlinson, its South East workers taking strike action for a better pay and respect. Anthony’s mum Gee Walker backs and assaults on workers’ rights. The Community Co-Ordinator. As an aside, we deal. Trades council members joined the spoke about the loss of her son and the theme was A future that works and we had are always looking to work collaboratively picket lines and marched to a rally in need to leave a positive message in his various speakers, including the Mayoral with individual unions, so please contact us if Trafalgar Square in London, showing that memory. Christine Blower, general secretary candidate Penny Fletcher and MEP Richard you have a campaign running and would like they will not accept low pay. of the NUT, thanked the GMB, Unison and Howitt – both stressed the need to fight some assistance. We were invited to join the NUT’s trip to Unite who supported the evening. back against the austerity agenda and the the Tolpuddle Martyrs’ Festival in Dorset. Naturally, we ran numerous events to On 7 October trades council members need for a socialist alternative. support the 18 October TUC march and Those attending learnt about the struggle to joined Council workers who rallied outside Jamie Newell from the Fire Brigades Union used the opportunity to deliver the TUC’s form trade unions and the sacrifices made the Civic Centre in Dagenham and followed outlined the current attacks on the Fire & Saving our Safety Net pamphlet to call by workers to defend their unions. a procession of Refuse Collection Trucks to Rescue service and particularly the attacks attention to the attacks on the Welfare “A friendly day meeting brothers and sisters Barking Town Hall ahead of the Cabinet on the pension scheme which will penalise State. 2 01 4 also saw us again look outside of from all over the country and reminds us of Meeting to object to proposed wage cuts. most fire fighters, and Cathrine Ward from our town borders. Delegates represented the struggle to form trade unions ”. Librarian, In November Jon Cruddas MP addressed Unison warned of the threats to the NHS Andover TUC in Salisbury on a Hope not Unite the trades council and pledged his support from the Con Dem government. Hate demonstration and distributed over “Everything was inspiring from the beautiful 32 33 left Cities of London & Westminster on the London May Day march right Hastings in Dieppe and supporting the NHS

Banner Theatre provided music combined With NUT and GMB we organised a public The trades council also arranged a Stop TTIP Phillips and Dick Muskett. With Islington Law with media presentations that highlighted meeting and rally supporting their campaigns public meeting with speakers including Centre and Cllr Mick O’Sullivan we had a the anti-working class nature of government on Pay and Pensions. Anneliese Dodds MEP, Linda Kaucher (Stop stall in Archway, and leafleted local job policies that are designed prop up the And with Unison and GMB we created a TTIP UK) and Unite officer Ian Woodland. centres on benefits sanctions, unemployed irrational capitalist system that benefits the campaign group to promote the retention of Successful campaigns included initiating rights and advice. few at the expense of the many. As well as services at Bedford Hospital, and attended Hastings Borough Council, Rother District In May, with Arsenal football club having a shop workers union USDAW, various two public marches in support of that Council and East Sussex County Council successful year, delegates chose the progressive organisations had stalls including campaign as well as providing speakers at into having policies to bar companies celebrations for the cup winners to leaflet the Palestine Solidarity Campaign, the Green public meetings. With Beds & Bucks CATC involved in blacklisting within the and highlight the campaign for a London Party, CND, National Pensioners we staffed the trade union stall at the construction industry from tendering for Living Wage for cleaners and catering staff Convention, Mature Citizens Action Group, Bedford River Festival for two days. future contracts. working through contractors at the club. the Labour Party, Morning Star (the daily socialist newspaper) and literature about We also supported USDAW in their The trades council also worked with the Other concerns that Islington trades council workers’ rights was available courtesy of Freedom from Fear campaign at the Tesco community to save Battle fire station from has been involved in include the need for SERTUC. store in Bedford, attended FBU picket lines, closure, supported the various public sector education and training in Islington Council’s and organised a mass picket at Bedford fire strikes, arranged a coach to London for the Employment Commission, especially for There was a collection taken for Bedford station with Labour and Green parties. 18 October march and organised an NHS young people out of work, and that Islington Food Bank which resulted in 33kg of food pledge meeting for Local and General should be a Zero Hour Contracts-free zone. being collected and free food and soft drinks In May, as part of Hastings & District trades council’s wish for 1 May to be reinstated as Election candidates. This and the Living Wage have been etc for those attending was provided by Abu achieved in Islington Council but as we see Sultan, Labour Borough Council candidate, International Workers Day within the UK, Islington trades council had FBU Regional a reciprocal arrangement was made with Secretary Paul Embery as a guest speaker in the private sector, this is an ongoing and the trades council. A collection was also campaign. Throughout the years we have taken for the striking local firefighters. The French trade union comrades in Dieppe. and was active in the campaign to keep A delegation of 20 from Hastings went to Clerkenwell fire station open. campaigned against the blacklist, and the event was closed by TUC President Graham need to have direct Labour and Islington Tranquada. Dieppe for the International Workers Day After a long campaign by TSSA and RMT to events on 1 May and then brought a number building works department is now direct. We organised a reception for the NHS 999 keep ticket offices open on the London We highlighted the STEM 6 free school of French comrades back to support 12 Underground the Mayor has commissioned March as it came through Bedford. The Rally hours of campaigning events in Hastings on where trade union rights were being on the steps of the Harpur Suite had some the first phase of closures. There has been ignored, and strike action supported by 3 May. Campaigns included Keep the guard local leafleting on this issue at train stations, coverage in national as well as local media. on the train , Free Palestine , Stop Privatisation of Islington NUT and the trades council were We had members and speakers along with including Finsbury Park and Highbury & successful in the teachers’ struggle for their Education , The Tolpuddle Martyrs , various Islington underground stations. Unison, Labour Party and GMB at the political music events and culminated with a rights. various smaller rallies and media events as mass picket in support of the fire-fighters. We coordinated a day of action with As usual the King’s Lynn trades council has the march arrived and left Bedford. London Unemployed Strategies with Nick been at the forefront of campaign action in

34 35 left Oxford trades council’s May Day march and rally joined the FBU picket line at the Oxford fire station

the town, holding monthly street stalls to knew how they could make their opposition We worked hard to ensure that the County Anti-Air War Memorial and supporting the raise awareness on issues within the NHS, to the hastily drafted clause known. We Association of Trade Union Councils was Orgreave Truth and Justice Committee’s and in defence of and support for the knew, and still know, that under a able to move forward and play a more lobby of the IPPC on 14 November. firefighters’ action, local government and civil Conservative-led government, our NHS is active part in supporting the establishment Resolutions dealt with included: support for servants. We have held successful public not safe. We have supported all the recent of the formation of other trades councils, victimised NHS worker Charlotte Monro; meetings, working alongside community and NHS actions and arranged a march and rally such as Thetford. the SOMA appeal for victims of the Turkish political groups and helped to raise the to show this. As usual, it was well attended, Redbridge trades council met monthly and mining disaster; and the International Day for profile of equality issues about access to despite the terrible weather. guest speakers included Greg Eglin on jobs the Elimination of Racism. shops and leisure events as well as the run We leafleted and took action for Britain and the economy; migrant workers Alberto, St Albans, Welwyn & Hatfield trades council of successful Women for Change talks, by Needs a Pay Rise on 5 April, combining this Marlene and Jason; Rachel Newton on the women, about women, but for everyone. has had another busy year in which we have with the Euro elections. We worked with Peoples’ Assembly; Karen from Liberty been active in supporting fellow trade We started the year as we always do, others to ensure that the local population Credit Union; our own David Landau and unionists in struggle and contributing to a outside the railway station protesting at the were aware of the reasons why Britain Barbara White on Hate Crime, and Musical wide range of campaigns. skyrocketing train fares – it doesn’t seem like needs a pay rise and, at the same time, Education; Carole Vincent on the Darlington a year ago! We explained how money on strengthened the engagement of a local to London NHS march and Alex Hilton of Disputes in education in schools, colleges increased fares is money directly taken out trade union branch. Generation Rent. and universities have meant that our of our local economy which benefits none of members have been in attendance at rallies, The trades council was always a supporter Other activities included: joining the meetings and picket lines. We have those who actually use the trains. There have of the firefighter action, attending in support presence at Bob Crow’s funeral; a May Day been no major improvements, we’ve still to supported fire fighters and colleagues in on Friday 2 May and at each picket line rally in the pedestrian precinct; a stall at Unison in a range of workplaces. see more frequent trains running and the since. We have ensured our letter writing Redbridge Green Fair shared with NUT; rolling stock remains in a dire condition. We campaign has made people aware of how greeting White Watch at Ilford Fire Station as Members have been active in organising will continue to support the work Action for the local MP has said one thing, but voted in they started strike action on 12 June; resistance to both the BNP (yes, still) and Rail does and build upon it locally. the opposite way. organising a rally outside the Town Hall for the EDL who persist in trying to organise – to no good effect – in our area ( pic above ). The trades council has continued its support Trades council activists continued their the 10 July one-day strike involving Unison, for the NHS and in particular, the local leafleting campaign in May with Women for GMB and NUT; screening Miners Shot Down One of the highlights of the year was hosting hospital, Queen Elizabeth. We have been Change leaflets on one side with information about the Marikana massacre; leafleting the March for the NHS in early September present at many of the Clinical about the trades council on the other. And commuters at Ilford Station for Action For 201 4. After a town centre rally addressed by Commissioning Group meetings, asking we continued to attend the surgeries that Rail; running a street stall to publicise the film director Ken Loach marchers were seen challenging questions and ensuring those the local MP held, ensuring he was aware his TUC march on 18 October (which we off on the final leg to Westminster with a decision makers know they will be held to constituents were willing to hold him to attended with banner); lobbying councillors social in St Albans, proclaimed by all of them account. We campaigned vigorously around account, and supported Adult Learners’ for support for Charlotte Monro; attending as “the best night of the march”! Sore heads Clause 118 (then 119), ensuring residents week in June. the unveiling of Sylvia Pankhurst’s refurbished to go with the sore feet in the morning!

36 37 International work Lisbon Dedalus Inter-Regional TUC Migrants Lombardia A SERTUC delegation The pictures top to comprising Megan bottom show: Qatar Dobney, Les Ford, Rob left to right , Claude Hancock, Laurie Denagtergal (ETUC), SERTUC’s engagement in Heselden, Tony Lennon, Jean-Pierre Stobiecki regional and international Carolyn Simpson and (CFDT, treasurer ), activities has continued Brian Walter attended Didier Louvet (CGT, with: (from top to bottom) the triennial General past-president ), Megan Participation in Lisbon’s Assembly of the Dobney (SERTUC, May Day march and rally InterRegional TUC. president ), Ghislain The highlight for us is Dethy (CSC, Eures The CGIL Lombardia-led that SERTUC took on Adviser ) project to strengthen the Presidency for the collective bargaining in Les Ford ( translater first time ever, until European Works and political advisor ) 2017 . Councils and with Luc Decavel multinational companies We spent an (ACV regional left to right Ricardo interesting couple of secretary ) days with colleagues Kirchhoff CC.OO, Tony Lennon from the eight French Patrick Schreiner DGB, (SERTUC vice and Belgian TU Megan Dobney SERTUC president ) with Rob confederations Support for the signing Hancock (SERTUC affiliated to the IRTUC. by the national TUC of trade union education The focus of the work the Protocol between us officer ) is on cross-border and the CGTP left to workers and this will Megan Dobney right: Carlos Trindade be a difficult period (SERTUC regional CGTP, Frances O’Grady, with our five trade secretary ) with Claude Megan Dobney, Armenio union Eures advisers Denagtergal (ETUC Carlos CGTP, seeking continuing Eures coordinator ) Mohammad Taj past-TUC European Commission president, Fernando finance through the Mauricio CGTP challenging EaSI funding SERTUC Executive stream. Committee solidarity The political and with the CGIL’s general industrial situation is strike in November 2 01 4 very challenging, SERTUC Regional particularly for our Council solidarity with Belgian colleagues, construction workers in fighting back with two Qatar and the TUC’s general strikes thus far. Playfair Qatar campaign 38 39 Executive Committee Delegate monitoring attendance 2 01 4-2 01 5

Trade union section Women’s seats Attendance at meetings of the Regional Council 2 01 4-2 01 5 ASLEF Mark Steele 5 CWU Linda Kietz** 4 Meeting Union delegates Unions CATC delegates Observers Total (2 01 3- 14) BECTU Tony Lennon 6 NUT Dorothy Amos 8 April 83 17 27 14 110 (117) CWU Paul Moffat 4 Unite Jackie McLeod 3 July 48 15 17 7 65 (81) FBU Ian Leahair 4 Young trade unionist October 55 17 22 8 77 (87) GMB Charles Harrity 3 TSSA Kyle Williamson 3 NASUWT Timothy Ramsden 8 January 54 18 16 8 70 (68) Black trade unionists Nautilus Int’l Jonathan Havard 8 PCS Dil Joshi 7 NUT Alex Kenny 5 Gender monitoring Unison Gloria Hanson 4 PCS Richard Edwards 4 Unite Jayesh Mistry 2 Total Male Female RMT Paul Cox 6 Regional Council (nominated) 166 118 48 (29%) TSSA Steve Leggett 8 Disabled trade unionist Executive Committee (elected) 32 23 9 (28%) Unison Linda Perks 6 PCS Mark Leopard 2 Unison Phil Wood* 4 LGBT trade unionist Unison Glyn Hawker* 3 Unite Anton Johnson 7 Ethnic monitoring Unite Martin Gould 5 White Afro Caribbean African Asian Other No response County Associations Unite Peter Kavanagh 5 Cambs CATC Tony Carter 7 Regional Council (nominated) 126 405229 Unite Jim Kelly 6 GLATC Roger Sutton 8 Executive Committee (elected) 26 10221 Treasurer (ex officio) Hants CATC Alan Durrant 5 Unite Carolyn Simpson 5 Oxon CATC Sue Tibbles 7 Suffolk CATC Teresa MacKay 8

Attendances are from a possible total of 9 * Linda Kietz died in December 2 01 4 (the April 2 01 5 meeting is not included) ** Glyn and Phil jobshare this seat

40 41 Campaign account 1 January to 31 December 2 014

Receipts Payments CND AGM delegate fees 40.00 Interest 44.94 Advertisements NPC Parliament conference fees 12.00 Campaign Fund donations PPPS Bob Crow 200.00 NPC Parliament delegates’ expenses 345.50 ASLEF (2013 & 2014) 350.00 PPPS Burston 150.00 PPPS paper distribution at Regional Council 106.80 BECTU 1,200.00 PPPS New Year 200.00 PPPS sponsorship Mark David-Grey 100.00 CWU London 1,200.00 PPPS May Day 200.00 PSC conference delegate fee 10.00 FBU London 1,000.00 VSC 155.00 Searchlight conference fees/donation 100.00 FBU South East 250.00 Affiliations WRC Kate Smurthwaite fee 150.00 GMB Southern 1,000.00 Abortion Rights 75.00 WRC walking tour Rachel Kolsky 185.00 NASUWT Eastern 900.00 ACTSA 40.00 Young Workers’ Network media 121.18 UCATT London & South East 300.00 Alliance for Inclusive Education 30.00 SERTUC Trades Councils Conference travel UCU Eastern & Home Counties 50.00 CND 75.00 Kings Lynn 13.65 Unison Eastern 1,000.00 Construction Safety Campaign 75.00 Southend 15.50 Unison London 1,200.00 CPBF 50.00 West Surrey 13.80 Unison South East (2013 & 2014) 2,000.00 Cuba Solidarity Campaign 50.00 Eastbourne (media prize) 100.00 Unite London & Eastern (2013 & 2014) 3,200.00 Labour Behind the Labour 50.00 Truth, Lies and Migrants Unite South East (2013 & 2014) 3,200.00 Liberation 40.00 Printing Upstream 12,596.00 Levellers Day booklet donations London Hazards Centre 100.00 ASLEF 100.00 National Assembly of Women 45.00 Unison South East 50.00 National Pensioners’ Convention 30.00 Unite London & Eastern 250.00 NPC Greater London 20.00 Young Workers Month donations Nicaragua Solidarity Campaign 75.00 Bromley trades council 50.00 PSC and delegation fees 58.00 GMB Milton Keynes City Branch 100.00 Socialist Health Association 25.00 TSSA SE Metro Branch 50.00 Socialist Renewal 20.00 TSSA TfL Central Branch 50.00 Stop the War Coalition 100.00 Truth, Lies and Migrants sales 6,411.00 Donations WRC walking tour fees 90.00 BECTU Ritzy Dispute 266.17 Sylvia Pankhurst account Burston Strike School Centenary 200.00 FBU Ashley Brown 100.00 Receipts Summary SERTUC Campaign Account IER 25th Anniversary 25.00 Summary Sylvia Pankhurst Memorial Committee Interest 19.51 Index for Inclusion 50.00 Balance in bank at 1 January 2 01 4 Balance in bank at 1 January 2 01 4 Refund of bank charges 0.60 Ipswich May Day Festival 750.00 Current account 1,000.00 Current account 1,000.00 Donations 25.00 Latin America 2014 250.00 Deposit account 21,694.44 Liberty Tree theatre 50.00 Reserve account 19,475.57 Payments Total 1 January 2 01 4 22,694.44 London Labour Film Festival 100.00 Total 1 January 2 01 4 20,475.57 0.00 London May Day Organising Committee 1,200.00 Add Receipts 24,045.94 Add Receipts 45.11 Ralph Miliband film 50.00 46,740.38 Shrewsbury Dispute theatre 50.00 20,520.68 Subtract payments 19,008.70 Still the Enemy Within film 50.00 Subtract payments 0 27,731.68 Sussex Women’s History Festival 50.00 20,520.68 Miscellaneous Credit balance at 31 December 201 4 £27,731.68 Credit balance at 31 December 201 4 £20,520.68 Burston expenses Owen Jones 45.10

42 43 SERTUC officers and staff Mick Connolly 1941 to 2 01 5

President Martin Gould Vice Presidents Tony Lennon Linda Perks Treasurer Carolyn Simpson Regional Secretary Megan Dobney 020 7467 1291 Regional Campaigns and Policy Officer Laurie Heselden 020 7467 1292 Administrative Secretary Darren Lewis 020 7467 1220 Mick Connolly was SERTUC Regional reliance on defence industries and the arms Administrative Assistants Joanne Adams 020 7467 1218 Secretary from 1993 until his retirement in trade. Jaspal Ghtoray 020 7467 1248 2006. He died in January 2 01 5 and SERTUC, Mick of course lost his job when Thatcher Alyx Jenkins 020 7467 1237 Unite and T&G banners attended his funeral. abolished the GLC and returned to the role Regional Education Officers Rob Hancock 020 7467 1369 After leaving school in Wapping Mick of lay activist. He eventually became Vice Phil Gowan 020 7467 1238 followed his father and brothers into the Chair of the T&G’s Region 1 Committee, one Senior Union Support Officer Stuart Barber 020 7467 1398 London docks – where he soon joined the of the key left regions in the union. Union Support Officers Oreleo du Cran 020 7467 1368 Communist Party and was quickly elected as In 1993 Mick was appointed SERTUC Adrian Ryan 020 7467 1339 a T&G shop steward. Regional Secretary by the TUC. In those London Unemployed Strategies Nick Phillips 020 7467 1283 Whilst a dock worker he benefitted from days the SERTUC region consisted of the structured support for working class London and the South East – rationalisation activists to further their education, going to meant that a few years later the Eastern the London School of Economics, and Region was abolished as a separate region from 1April 2 01 5 for 12 months graduating in 1966 with a Politics and and added to the SERTUC remit. Stuart Barber is on secondment to Carshalton College Economics degree. He was then a T&G full Adrian Ryan is Senior Union Support Officer Mick strode the SERTUC stage like a time officer, based in the union’s Stratford Oreleo du Cran is Union Support Officer for Apprenticeships colossus. Full time permanent TUC Regional District Office. Secretaries were a new-ish phenomenon Mick was appointed by Ken Livingstone, and Mick created and coalesced SERTUC as leader of the Greater London Council, as the TUC’s leading progressive region – Director of the Greater London Trade always with the breadth of working class Union Resource Unit. The unit’s work was interests at its centre – and that meant anti- wide ranging and cemented Mick’s racism and women’s equality at its heart. reputation as a leader in anti-racist Under his leadership SERTUC was campaigning work. While at GLTURU Mick described as “the TUC’s Broad Left”. all email addresses are first name initial followed by [email protected], except for Alyx and Jo also commissioned work on London’s where it is alyxjenkins@ and jowilliams@ manufacturing base, questioning the over- Mick liked that.

44 45 printed by Upstream 020 7358 1344 [email protected]