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Union Learning Representatives

Union Learning Representative is a role that began in 1998, there are now over 4500 Union Learning Reps promoting learning to union members in a wide variety of workplaces.With thousands of members taking up learning, studying subjects as diverse as glass etching to Star Trek Psychology, as well as the old favourite - IT.It has been referred to as a "Quiet Revolution" - and is changing the lives and aspirations of union members around the country.

This is a new category of union representative, trained in advising members on learning needs and opportunities. They have demonstrated that they can complement and add value to employers' efforts to engage workers in learning. They share a level of trust with their members, and can often engage those who would be embarrassed about admitting their learning needs to their employer.

Their work mostly involves face-to-face meetings and other direct contact with their fellow workers. But they also work with employers and training providers to identify the range of learning opportunities available. They encourage people to take ownership of their learning, and to gain access to the learning people want (not necessarily what their employer expects them to do).

Development of this role has had significant impact on increasing motivation and enthusiasm for learning among employees and employers - it is truly something which is of benefit to everyone.

The key roles undertaken by Learning Representatives have included: -

• Raising employee awareness to the benefits of learning - Working with employers to identify learning needs.
• Providing confidential advice and guidance on learning to employees.
• Negotiating learning agreements with employers, including time off to study.
• Securing equal opportunities in learning.
• Helping employers to establish learning centres.
• Brokering provision with training providers.
• Monitoring quality of provision.
• Assisting employees to access funding for learning.
• Supporting innovative workplace developments such as Union Learning Fund Projects.

The Government has recognised the value of this role, and Union Learning Reps are about to be given the legal right to time off work to carry out their duties.

We are looking for people interested in taking on this role, to support work colleagues by carrying out these duties in your workplace.If you are interested in talking to colleagues about the benefits of learning, enjoy talking to people, and would be willing to get involved, please contact the branch office. There is no need for you to have had previous Union experience, although you must be a Union member, and full training and support will be provided.

If you would like the chance to make a difference to the lives of your colleagues - don't leave it up to someone else - get in touch and get involved.