Union Learning Representatives 

In recent years unions have developed a new role in promoting learning at work. Union Learning Reps have been instrumental in raising interest in training and development, especially amongst the lowest skilled workers and those with literacy and numeracy needs. 

The Union Learning Rep is a new kind of union rep. They are trained in advising members on learning needs and opportunities. They can compliment and add value to employers efforts to 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. They also work with employers and training providers and colleges etc to identify the range of learning opportunities available. 

What does the Learning Rep do ? 

Roles already undertaken by Learning Reps include : 

Ø      Raising employee awareness of the benefit of learning

Ø      Working with employers to identify workers needs

Ø      Providing advice and guidance on learning to employers

Ø      Negotiating learning agreements with employers, including time off to study

Ø     Securing equal opportunities in learning

Ø      Helping employers to establish learning centres

Ø      Brokering provision with training providers

Ø      Monitoring quality of provision

Ø      Supporting innovative workplace developments such as Union Learning Fund projects 

What support do Learning Reps get ? 

All learning reps are given a five day training course provided by the TUC and individual unions. The course is accredited by the Open College Network 

Afterwards the Reps are provided with follow up and support :

Ø     ULRs are invited to Regional Events

Ø      Regional Networks are gradually evolving and the reps direct activities

Ø      A Learning Services contact is named for support

New rights for Learning Reps.

The rights contained in the Employment Bill include : 

Ø      Reasonable time off for carrying out the following activities on behalf of their members

Ø      Analysing learning and training needs

Ø      Providing advice and guidance

Ø      Arranging learning, courses, etc

Ø      Consulting the employer about carrying out these activities

Ø      Paid time off to undergo sufficient training to carry out these activities

Ø      Unpaid time off for employees to have access to services provided by their union Learning Reps 

ACAS (the arbitration service) has produced a draft Code of Practice setting out new guidance for Learning Reps – you can download a copy from their website http://www.acas.org.uk/news/news_26.html (requires Acrobat Reader available on the staff Intranet). 

The Code sets out new guidance on time off for union activities including the work of learning reps  - comments on the draft Code can be submitted to ACAS until November 13^th. 

Mid Devon UNISON is working together with the UNISON Regional office, and the South West TUC Learning Services. You can learn more about them at http://www.learningservices.org.uk/southwest/index.cfm 

Finally, if you would like to know more about becoming a Learning Representative, contact us at [email protected] and we will get back to you.