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What We Do
Periodically, employers make changes to the working practices and conditions of their staff. It is the job of the union to ensure that these new policies are completely fair to the staff.
To do this, our senior UNISON branch officers, along with the HR department, are incorporated into the development of any new strategy for the Trust. This includes working on new policies with the Trust’s Directors, arguing for amendments where staff interests are being affected, and being involved in the selection process of senior management and Director level appointments.
UNISON is ideally placed to be the voice of staff when new changes are made to the Trust. A great deal of work is done without being formally publicised and staff will be more familiar with the actions of UNISON when they need workplace advice or support in the event of an inquiry. UNISON is supported by the Trust’s board and an effective relationship between the two exists ensuring that our members are an integral part of the Trust’s development.
Agenda for Change is probably the best example of our ability to represent staff interests. UNISON was able to ensure that at every meeting operational road, dispatch and PTS staff were present to create a new contract that has, by and large, ensured a fair and financially beneficial contract for all our staff.
The face of unions has changed dramatically over the years. We now pride ourselves on the ability to negotiate with the Trust without the need for aggressive disputes. The Ambulance service merger highlighted this relationship and UNISON and its members were openly invited into the high level meetings. Within the meetings, we were able to directly influence the outcomes for staff and this is something that the Trust should be commended for.
Without a strong union, employers would be free to make unlimited changes to the way their staff work. As a new era for UK Ambulance services dawns, UNISON will continue to be a proverbial ‘pain in the backside’ for anything that is detrimental to our members.
But, in order to represent people, we need to know their thoughts. The best way to make your voice heard is to become part of the decision making process! As a UNISON officer, you'll be ideally placed to take forward the concerns of your work area to the forefront of our negotiations.
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