Welcome to UNISON Blaenau Gwent

Blaenau Gwent is a county borough in Wales, sharing its name with a parliamentary constituency

Branch latest news, archive news and branch representatives

UNISON Office, Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council
Municipal Offices, Ebbw Vale, NP23 6XB
Telephone: 01495 355252
blaenau gwent map

ARCHIVE 2019 - 2021 STORIES


December 2021

STRIKE ACTION BACKED

Welsh public back strike action for key workers to win a fair pay rise.

Link to news press release

Dave Rees

December 2021

date 15th December

END OF YEAR ONLINE EVENT

After a tough and challenging year, you are invited to UNISON's end of year rally, to Fight for Fairness.

This new and exciting online event is next Wednesday, 15 December from 5.30pm to 7pm and is a chance to reflect on the many campaigns and the various victories we've enjoyed together - whilst looking ahead to some of the challenges to come, especially those on pay, funding cuts, climate change and equality.

Register for the rally now.

Link to our Zoom online event

Blaenau Gwent

December 2021

date 17h November

CHRISTMAS PARTY IMPORTANT UPDATE

A message from Blaenau Gwent Unison branch.

It is with true disappointment the Blaenau Gwent Executive Branch of Unison have decided to postpone this year's Christmas event for obvious reasons.

The new Covid variant has impacted greatly on the people of the borough and the rest of Wales.

The branch are fully aware of the impact social isolation has on members wellbeing and will be looking to hold further events in the spring/summer when safer to do so.

I hope you will support and understand your branches decision and please e-mail Ian Robins or phone 01495 355252 for your refund.

Christmas Party

November 2021

date 25th November

LGBT+ MEETING INVITE

As you may be aware Unison has various self-organised groups (SOGs), for members with protected characteristics.

For those members who identify themselves as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Plus Group (LGBT+) Unison would like to invite you to an online meeting of our Regional LGBT+ SOG.

The meeting is being held on Thursday 25th November at 12.30pm until 2.30pm.

If you would like to learn more about LGBT+ and what Unison and the group can do for you then please make a request to join the meeting by e-mailing Pat Jones taffdrum@yahoo.co.uk or Neil Kowalski-Davies neil.kowalski-davies@wales.nhs.uk and ask for the meeting link to be sent to you.

Also, if you would like to get involved with Unison locally, please drop your branch secretary an e-mail, Ian Robins, unison@blaenau-gwent.gov.uk

Although we welcome the involvement of allies in LGBT+ activities, these meetings are only for members who identify as LGBT+. This is done to ensure the safety of members who may not be out in their workplace.


November 2021

date 6th November

MARCH WITH US - COP26

March with UNISON on the Cardiff COP26 Day of Action: 6 Nov. Assemble 12pm in front of the City Hall (by Brodies Coffee, Gorsedd Gardens, Cardiff, CF10 3NP).

Bring flags, banners and friends on this family-friendly march #WeMakeTomorrow

COP 26 Cardiff Day Of Action March

November 2021

date 23rd November

INTRODUCTION TO UNCONSCIOUS BIAS - TASTER SESSION

Tuesday 23rd November 2021
12 noon to 1pm - via Zoom

Unconscious Biases are the underlying attitudes and stereotypes that people unconsciously attribute to another person or group of people that affect how they understand and engage with them.

This course is being offered free to members, to book your place please email Daniel Perkins or call 01495 355252.


October 2021

A BIG THANK YOU

We are honoured to have been awarded the Cymru/Wales 'Recognition Award'.

We would like to say a big thank you to our stewards, officers and staff - All of whom have worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic.

Branch Reward

October 2021

STAFF SHORTAGES - GIVE US THE REAL PICTURE

UNISON wants to hear from members about the staff shortage crisis which is hitting the care sector right now. Can you fill out this short survey, so we can take the real picture to employers and government?


October 2021

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Wales will be first UK nation to make teaching of black histories compulsory #BlackHistoryMonth

A MONUMENT of Wales' first black headteacher and #BlackHistoryMonth campaigner was unveiled in Cardiff.

Betty Campbell, who died in 2017 at the age of 82, defied her doubters after being told as a child that her dream to become a head teacher was "insurmountable".

Link to the statue unveiling


September 2021

Read PDF link here:
date 22nd SeptemberReject Vote

UNISON NATIONAL JOINT COUNCIL PAY OFFER 2021/2022 BALLOT

This online consultation ballot allows you to vote on whether to accept or reject the Local Government Employers' NJC pay offer. It is being run so that the UNISON NJC Committee can get a clear picture of members' views on the offer.

IT IS EXTREMELY IMPORTANT THAT YOU USE YOUR VOTE.

By clicking on the PDF link left you'll be able to read the offer and then vote, voting closes at midday on the 22nd September 2021.


September 2021

date 17th September

LGBT+ BLACK AND DISABLED NETWORK

Last chance to sign up for UNISON's Black LGBT+ network meeting 11:30am-2:00pm and Disabled LGBT+ network meeting 4:00pm-6:30pm on 17 September.

This meeting gives you the opportunity to find out about the work that UNISON does for LGBT+ equality for Black and Disabled LGBT+ members in the workplace and wider community. You'll have the opportunity to talk to and question your reps on the national committee and also influence the work that UNISON does on LGBT+ equality. For more information please message us, or email out@unison.co.uk

LGBT+ Disabled Network

August 2021

CLAPPING DOESN'T PAY THE BILLS

Public service workers deserve a decent pay increase.

Staff in the NHS, in social care, in schools, in councils, in the police and elsewhere, have provided vital services to our communities during the pandemic.

Pay has been cut in real terms over a decade of being frozen or capped. Follow UNISON Cymru Wales campaign. Campaign details along with our consultation on unfair pay offers

Fair Pay Advert

August 2021

date 16th August

HAVE YOUR SAY - FAIR PAY

Dear Unison member,

It has been 18 months of trials and tribulations for our fantastic local government staff across Wales and the rest of the UK. Unison want you to know the sacrifices and commitment made by you during the pandemic has been exemplary and should be recognised in the form of a decent pay offer in this year's settlement.

The committee who negotiate the annual pay offer in Local Government is called the NJC (National Joint Council) and it is made up of employees (trade unions) and employers (Local Government Association).

The employees side (trade unions) recently received a final offer from the employers side which consists of a 1.75% pay increase from 1 April 2021, with 2.75% for those on pay point 1. The joint trade unions believe the offer is unacceptable and agreed to launch a consultation of members on this pay offer.

In order for your branch executive gain an understanding on how members feel about the offer please can you get in touch via email unison@blaenau-gwent.gov.uk or join Unison on a team's meeting on Monday, 16th August, lunchtime 12.00pm - 12.30pm and let Unison know your views.

A link here to: How do you want to join your Microsoft Teams meeting?

We look forward to hearing from you or seeing you at the meeting.


July 2021

Read PDF links here:
English version:
PDF link for Important Information from the Welsh Ambulance Service July 2021 in English
Welsh version:
PDF link for Important Information from the Welsh Ambulance Service July 2021 in Welsh

WELSH AMBULANCE SERVICE - IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Quality is at the heart of everything we do. It's an important factor in making sure our services meet your expectations. We care about your experience, and your feedback is vital in improving the quality of the care we provide. It helps us to see what is working well and what needs further improvement in the way we deliver services. We really want to deliver the best possible care, and your feedback will help us to keep striving to make the Welsh Ambulance Service the best it can be.


July 2021 Update

LET'S TALK

Blaenau Gwent UNISON are now able to offer members a new Talking Therapies initiative, which is accessed by completing a simple referral form. We can then put you in touch with a counsellor who can offer online or telephone support for issues such as work-related stress, anxiety and depression.

Sessions can be accessed quickly and arranged at a time to suit you. This support is offered free to all Blaenau Gwent UNISON members.

This initiative is being administered by Monmouthshire Branch, therefore if you would like to take up this opportunity, please email unisonmon@btconnect.com and a referral form will be sent to you. If you would like then to complete the form for you over the phone, please call 01291 675502 leaving your name, number and best time to call, and they will call you back to go through this with you. You can now apply online by clicking the link below.

Remember- it's always good to talk #itsokaytonotbeokay Apply for Talking Therapies.


July 2021

Read the PDF report here
CERD Shadow Report For Wales

RACE EQUALITY FIRST - REPORT FOR WALES

UNISON Cymru/Wales Black Members' Group has been working with Race Equality First on its report on the scale of racial inequality in Wales and how Westminster and Welsh governments must do a lot more to tackle racism. Chair of UNISON Black members, Kebba Manneh, said:

"This report is hard-hitting and the scale of the racism revealed may be shocking to some, but this is the reality for Black people every day. Our governments are failing to effectively tackle racism and address ethnic disparities in all areas of life. We want a Wales free of racial discrimination and Welsh government must take this report seriously and act on the recommendations. We need action! Well done to Race Equality First and UNISON Cymru Wales for all the work you have done on the report."

The report identifies: -
• Police-recorded hate crimes rising by a third since 2016/17
• Ethnic minorities disproportionately stop-searched by the police across all four of Wales' force areas
• Ethnic minorities remain substantially underrepresented in senior jobs in the public sector
• Ethnic minorities are more likely to live in poorer quality housing or work in precarious jobs, and face racial bullying in school and into their adult lives

The report has been submitted to the Committee of the UN International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination.


July 2021

FAIR PAY

UNISON is calling for a 10% pay rise for all local government workers, as financial recognition for their commitment to public service.

Link here to Fair Pay details.

Fair Pay Councils And School Staff

July 2021

LOCAL GOVERNMENT

UNISON is clear: 1.5% is an insult to council and school staff and can't be allowed to stand. Blog by head of local government and education, Jon Richards.

Read Jon Richards blog here.

Jon Richards

July 2021

date 1st July

THERE FOR YOU SCHOOL UNIFORM GRANTS 2021

There for You has once again set up a fund to help members on low incomes struggling with the cost of school uniforms. Grants of £50 per child are available, up to a maximum of £150 per family.

Applications are by downloadable form and will be available from Thursday 1 July at the link below. As always, this is a limited fund and once it's gone, it's gone.

School Uniform Help

Please ring 01495 355252 if you require a hard copy of the application form.

Link here for school uniform grants.


June 2021

OUR HEROES

Posters appearing throughout Blaenau Gwent over the next couple of months.

Thank you to all our amazing public sector heroes.

Public Sector Heroes

June 2021

WORKPLACE DISPUTE

Employers can no longer mistreat staff who take part in industrial action, says UNISON. Christina McAnea hails important victory for staff involved in strikes or disputes

Employers will no longer be able to get away with mistreating any employees who take part in union-organised workplace disputes following an important legal decision, says UNISON.

Link here to read Christina McAnea report.

Unison Support

May 2021

date 27th May

NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COUNCIL ELECTIONS

UNISON's National Executive Council elections close on 27 May. Make sure you don't miss out on having a say in how your union is run.

Read more on this story

Be heard

May 2021

date 12th May

INTERNATIONAL NURSES DAY 2021

Happy #InternationalNursesDay2021 #NursingTheNation21

It's incredible to think of what you've all achieved over the last year. Stuart Tuckwood, UNISON's National Officer for nursing has recorded the message below to mark this year's event.

Why not join Stuart and other leaders at tonight's live event to celebrate IND and discuss the challenges ahead and how we can empower nurses to lead us through them.


April 2021

date 30th March

CALLING YOUNG MEMBERS

On Friday, Apr 30, 2021 (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM) UNISON's young members present a webinar introducing the resources available to develop and support young members. All welcome, both young and not-so-young members.

Calling young members - Register here


April 2021

SUPPORT AND WELL BEING

Are you or someone you know in need of support to improve your wellbeing and enhance your career prospects?

Support and Well Being

April 2021

NHS PAY DAY

NHS Pay Day: Show us your windows.

Instead of the pay rise they're due, our fantastic NHS staff are being rewarded with delays and a potential real-terms pay cut.

We're asking people to put a poster in their window to support a proper NHS pay rise. Let's brighten up our streets and show NHS staff they are valued.

Download one of our designs below to colour in, or get creative and make your own. Then share a picture of your window on social media using hashtags #NHSPayDay and #WithNHSStaff.

View posters click here


March 2021

IMPORTANT INFORMATION NEEDED

Have you been working from home during the pandemic?

Whether 'yes' or 'no' UNISON would like to hear from you about your experiences and find out your views on homeworking during this pandemic.

Please complete this anonymous survey by clicking the link below which will be used by UNISON to inform our negotiating and bargaining strategy going forward, it will take less than 4 minutes.

It is important for us to gather as much information as possible so your input would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you for helping us to help you! - Survey here


March 2021

date 15th March

CALLING ALL UNISON CYMRU WALES MEMBERS

Join us for the virtual launch of the UNISON Senedd elections manifesto 2021 and hear about the priorities we want for public service workers. Monday 15 March, 2.45pm - 3.15pm Register here

Senedd Manifesto 2021

March 2021

date 8th March

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY

"We cannot all succeed when half of us are held back." ~ Malala Yousafzai

#IWD2021 #IntermationalWomensDay

International Womens Day

March 2021

date 1st March

HAPPY ST DAVIDS DAY

Happy St. Davids Day from all the staff at Blaenau Gwent - Dydd Gŵyl Dewi Hapus!

Happy St Davids Day

February 2021

AGM 2021 - Agenda/Minutes
date 16th February AGM 2021 - Agenda/Minutes

BLAENAU GWENT AGM 2021 (ONLINE) - MINUTES NOW AVAILABLEU

TUES, 16 FEB 2021 AT 12:30 UTC
AGM 2021 - Blaenau Gwent (Online) Branch Meeting.
Click on our AGM logo to visit how you want to join our Microsoft Teams AGM meeting.

AGM Thank You

February 2021

HAPPY LGBT+

Here at Unison Blaenau Gwent, we're proud to be a welcoming, inclusive Union for all.

Happy LGBT+ History Month!

#LGBTHM21

LGBT Badge

February 2021

date 3rd February

PAY FAIR FOR CARE

On Wednesday 3 February at 12:30pm, UNISON is hosting a carers' rally as part of the Pay Fair for Care national day of action.

Join the event to hear from care workers, celebrities and politicians. Wednesday, 3 February 2021 from 12:30-14:00 UTC, online with Facebook Live.

Pay fair for care

January 2021

date 20th January

SCHOOL MEMBERS MEETING

Following our very successful and well-attended meeting for schools' members last week, we are repeating the meeting this Wednesday 20th January at 5pm for those who were unable to attend or could not join the previous meeting as it was full - apologies to all of you for any inconvenience.

So that we can accommodate everybody who'd like to attend, you will need to register to attend the meeting.

This meeting is an opportunity for us to receive information from you about how schools are operating in your area and to answer any questions you may have.

Blaenau Gwent

January 2021

date 14th January

SCHOOL MEMBERS MEETING

Dear Member

We would like to invite you to a meeting of school members next Thursday 14th Jan. This is an opportunity for us to receive information from you about how schools are operating in your area and to answer any questions you may have.

Please see the joining details below.

Schools members meeting
Thursday, Jan 14, 2021 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM (GMT)
Please join my meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/229348309
You can also dial in using your phone.
United Kingdom (Toll Free): 0 800 031 4727
United Kingdom: +44 20 3713 5011
Access Code: 229-348-309

Blaenau Gwent

December 2020

STARS IN OUR SCHOOLS

Stars In Our Schools is an annual celebration of school support staff. This year's event took place on 27th November.

We wish to commend and celebrate this very important group of keyworkers.

Pictured: Shannon Price / Abertillery 3-16's School.

Stars In Our Schools

October 2020

YOUR MENTAL HEALTH IS A PRIORITY

Your mental health is a priority. Your happiness is essential. Your self-care is a necessity.

Active Monitoring is a FREE, six week, guided self-help programme to help you to better understand and be more in control of your feelings. If you live in Wales and are over 18, get in touch to find out more.

Get in touch today
Tel: 01970 626225
Email: firstcontact@torfaenmind.co.uk
Torfaen and Blaenau Gwent Mind
24 George Street
Pontypool
Torfaen
NP4 6BY

Mental Health Support

September 2020

BLAENAU GWENT

To celebrate the launch of the new Blaenau Gwent Unison App, we are giving members the chance to win one of the following prizes:

• B&B stay for 2 at the Celtic Manor Resort
• Spa and pamper day for 2 at the Vale Resort
• Supercar driving day experience
Good luck!

Blaenau Gwent

September 2020

HELPING MARGINALISED GROUPS

Our International Officer, Neville Southall spoke to The Guardian. You can read the full interview.

Thank you for helping us to help you! Read article click here

Neville Southall Interview

August 2020

DISABLED HOMEWORKING

Give disabled people the right to work from home after Covid-19, says UNISON.

Read article click here


July 2020

Stakeholder Shielding Briefing - Q_A Final (E)

SHIELDING GUIDANCE UPDATE

This is an internally facing document to assist you in communicating and explaining the changes announced to the shielding guidance for those that are shielding in Wales.


July 2020

TTP Guidance For Educational Settings

TTP GUIDANCE LINK

Wales' Test, Trace, Protect Strategy: COVID-19 Guidance for Education Settings - Test, Trace, Protect is the Welsh Government's approach to testing and contact tracing to help us live with Covid-19 (coronavirus) whilst work continues to find more effective treatments and a vaccine. Click on the PDF link for more information.


June 2020

date 18th June

SCHOOL SUPPORT STAFF

Thousands of schools support staff across Wales believe schools should remain closed until September. Read more click here


June 2020

date 12th June

PAY OFFER TO MEMBERS

NJC committee to put pay offer to members - Consultation will allow branches and members to discuss the employers' final offer - the best that can be achieved by negotiation. Read more click here


June 2020

date 11th June

REOPENING OF SCHOOLS SURVEY

Following the Welsh Government announcement last week, UNISON Cymru Wales want to find out how you, our members in schools, feel about the staggered reopening of schools on 29th June and the extension of the summer term by one week to 27th July. We are conducting a short survey which should take about 5 minutes to complete - please return your response by 12 noon on Tuesday 16th June using the link below. Survey click here


June 2020

date 10th June

HELPING MARGINALISED GROUPS

Our International Officer, Neville Southall spoke to The Guardian. You can read the full interview.

Thank you for helping us to help you! Read article click here


June 2020

date 10th June

GLORIA MILLS - UNISON HEAD OF EQUALITY

The murder of George Floyd and the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on Black communities has focused attention on inequality and racism. UNISON head of equality Gloria Mills looks at the union's role. Read more click here


May 2020

date 27th May

CARERS SUPPORT

Since care workers are caring for those most vulnerable to the COVID-19 virus, they must be able to self-isolate if they show symptoms.

Yet care workers cannot afford to do this.

Help us to demand #FullPayForCarers to #StopTheSpread. Support link click here


May 2020

date 1st May

PLEASE SIGN THE PETITION

Promises don't save lives. PPE does. Please sign the petition. Facebook link click here


April 2020

date 28th April

HONOUR OUR KEY WORKERS

Join us at 11am on 28th April, 2020 for a 1 minute's silence to honour the key workers who've died from this devastating virus. Facebook link click here.


April 2020

date 15th April

USEFUL LINKS FOR MEMBERS

Dedicated school support staff page on the UNISON Wales website; Read more .....
PPE Guidance (updated 020420); Read more .....
General link for members to get information on their benefits from the government; Read more .....
Coronavirus - Your Rights at Work; Read more .....
Coronavirus - Advice for social care workers; Read more .....
UNISONWales dedicated Facebook page for our social care members; Read more click here


April 2020

date 7th April

FREE ONLINE COURSES

UNISON Cymru Wales to deliver free online Covid-19 training across Wales
Read more click here


April 2020

date 3rd April

KEY WORKERS POSTER

Thank you very much to Noah Stockham (Age 8) for this brilliantly coloured Key Workers poster. It has now been proudly displayed in his front window for all to see.

Join us in saying a huge thank you to all our key workers, by colouring one of these printable posters and displaying it in your window.

#ThankYouKeyWorkers

Key Workers Poster

March 2020

date 24th March

IMPORTANT COVID19 MESSAGE

Although we are all practicing social distancing at the moment, we wanted to quickly reassure you that we're very much still here if you require any assistance or support. It's important that during these trying times that we abide by the rules allocated to us and we all do our part to prevent the further spread of the Coronavirus. We would like to wish you the best of health during this difficult time. Please stay safe.

Our contact details are as follows:

Unison Office - 01495 355252
Ian Robins - 07468487243
Dave Rees - 07469926458

Email: unison@blaenau-gwent.gov.uk

Coronavirus

March 2020

date 23rd March 2020

NJC Circ Coronavirus and Critical Workers Update
NJC Circ Coronavirus and Critical Workers Update
School FAQ guidance coronvirus download file
School FAQ guidance coronvirus download
FAQs for school staff download file
FAQs for school staff

IMPORTANT NOTICE: COVID19 UPDATE

Statement by Kirsty Williams Minister for Education

I'd like to thank parents for listening to the advice and keeping most children at home. I'd be grateful if tomorrow morning you only use schools or childcare as a last resort.

The advice has not changed as a result of tonight's decision to further restrict movement, which our First Minister, along with other UK leaders took with the sole aim of slowing the spread of coronavirus.

Children should be at home wherever possible, critical workers will still need to have safe care arrangements for their children. Our schools and childcare settings are providing a vital service to support critical workers and our most vulnerable children.

Those involved in the current arrangements looking after children should continue. Many thanks to our amazing teaching and childcare professionals for their commitment in this time of national need.

This situation will continue for the immediate term but we will be reviewing with healthcare professionals, local authorities and our teaching unions.


March 2020

Coronavirus frequently asked questions answered

CORONAVIRUS FAQS ANSWERED

As the virus spreads and continues to dominate the news, we have all your work-based coronavirus questions answered.

Coronavirus

March 2020

Nurture Equip Thrive Project

NURTURE EQUIP THRIVE PROJECT

The aim of the project is to support employed people to stay in work if they have a work limited health conditions or disability, return from sick leave or take on career development opportunities.


March 2020

UNISON CYMRU WALES SURVEY

Gender Equality in the Workplace. The survey shouldn't take long and we'd appreciate it if you could share with others who may be interested in participating. The results will allow us to better campaign to improve your rights at work.
Read more click here


February 2020

AGM - A BIG THANK YOU

On behalf of the Blaenau Gwent Unison branch, we would like to say a personal thank you to all attendees and speakers at last night's AGM meeting.

I'm sure all in attendance would agree that Eva Clarke's goosebump-inducing presentation was both poignant and inspiring and we all feel deeply honoured to have spent time with her.

At the end of the evening, Eva was presented with the International Award by our very own, Neville Southall. The award was issued on behalf of the Blaenau Gwent Unison branch to honour her exceptional work for the Holocaust Educational Trust.

AGM A Big Thank You

February 2020

date 17th FebruaryAGM
date 20th February

AGM - NOTICE OF BRANCH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Notice of Branch Annual General Meeting date is Thursday 20th February 2020 at 5pm in the Council Chambers, Civic Centre.

Voting members may make nominations for the officers and workplace stewards to be elected at the AGM. This must be done by completing the relevant forms which can be obtained from the office address in the PDF link. Motions for this AGM are due by Friday 17th January 2020.

AGM Logo

January 2020

WE STAND TOGETHER

We stand united with the victims and survivors of one the most horrendous chapters in human history.

Let us all never forget the unimaginable horror of the Holocaust and pledge to challenge ALL forms of prejudice and hatred.

#HMD2020

Holocaust Memorial Day

Closes 14th February

date 14th FebruaryWinter Fuel Grant for Members

WINTER FUEL GRANT FOR MEMBERS

There for You has set up a limited fund to help UNISON members. If your net income is £18,000 or less you may be eligible to receive a grant of £40.

Unison Winter Fuel Fund

December 2019

THANK YOU TO THE COMMUNITY OF ABERTILLERY

Unison would like to offer their sincere thanks to the community of Abertillery for their ongoing support against the proposed redundancies of level 3 Teaching Assistants at the 3-16 ALC.

Despite, torrential rain and high winds community members turned up in their droves to let the school's governing body know what they really thought of their proposals.

Dave Rees, Unison Branch Chair and Chair of Local Government Committee for Wales said, " I would like to put on record the Unions sincere thanks for the communities overwhelming support during this difficult, uncertain time for staff. Unison hope the Governing body will take the time to listen to everyone's concerns regarding the ill-conceived proposals of the School. Let us get around the table and work together to find solutions that will benefit everyone as we cannot afford for the school to fail. However, the Governing Body will have to rid itself of the current culture of secrecy, deceitfulness and autocratic behaviours if talks are to be fruitful. Finally, I would like to thank Nick Smith the incumbent Labour MP for giving his full support to the staff during this awful period for them".

Abertillery Community

December 2019

CELEBRATING 'STARS IN OUR SCHOOLS

Celebrating 'Stars in our Schools' with the Six Bells Primary Campus, we would like to say a MASSIVE thank you to all involved.

Star in my school

Star in my school
Star in my school

December 2019

date 7th December 2019

CHRISTMAS TRIP

This year's Christmas trip is a visit to London on Saturday 7th, December 2019. The pickup points and times are as follows:-

Tredegar clock - 8.00pm
Civic Centre - Ebbw Vale 8.10am
Brynmawr Cinema 8.20am
Railway Inn, Abertillery 8.30am
High Cross roundabout - 9.00am
Leaving London 11.00pm.
Prices are £5 for Unison Members and £15 for non-members.
There are 60 spaces only, so please book early by paying your money to Sian at the Civic Centre Reception.

Chrsitmas Shop

October 2019

survey

LOCAL COUNCIL SERVICES E-PETITION

If you're concerned about the future of your local council services, please take a moment to sign the 'Earlier notification of council budgets by the Welsh Government' e-Petition Click here for details

Senedd Petition

October 2019

MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT

It's important to take care of yourself and get the most from life. Making simple changes to how you live doesn't need to cost a fortune or take up loads of time. Anyone can follow this advice. Why not start today? Click here for details

Childrens Mental Health

October 2019

survey

DISABLED WORKERS SHORT SURVEY

Help us fight for better rights for disabled workers. We'd like to find out about your experiences at work if you have a health condition or are disabled. Can you take our short survey? You could win a £50 One4all gift card for taking part. Click here for short survey

Blaenau Gwent

October 2019

UNISON, BLACK HISTORY MONTH

For UNISON, Black History Month is a time to acknowledge and celebrate achievements of Black people throughout history. Black History and Black British History in particular, is often marginalised. So Black History Month is a key time to acknowledge achievements and provide an opportunity to discuss wider issues affecting the Black community. Click here for more information or for further details please contact: UNISON Office on 01495 355252

Black History Month

September 2019

date 28th September 2019

ELVIS FESTIVAL

The Porthcawl Elvis Festival trip will be taking place on Saturday 28th September 2019 - Arrangements will be roughly the same as previous trips. Members are advised to book early as seating is limited and places will be allocated on a first come first served basis. Adults Only.

To secure your place, please leave your name and remittance with Sian on reception at The Civic Centre, Ebbw Vale.

Pick up times are as follows:
10.00am -Tredegar Clock
10.10am - Ebbw Vale Civic Centre
10.20am - Brynmawr Cinema
10.30am - Abertillery
Return Journey - Leaving Porthcawl 11.00pm
Members £3.00 - Non-Members £10.00
For further details please contact: UNISON Office on 01495 355252

Elvis Festival 2019

September 16-20th 2019

date 16th September 2019date 17th September 2019date 18th September 2019date 19th September 2019date 20th September 2019

GREEN UNISON WEEK

The rearing of cattle is a massive contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Having one meat free day a week can make the world of difference. Check out some delicious recipes click here

Green Unison Week

September 2019

survey

UNISON WORKPLACE DISABILITY AND HEALTH SURVEY

Do you have a disability or a health condition? Telling us about your experiences at work will help us campaign for improvements for all disabled workers. Click here to take part in our survey of Unison members.

Click here for the survey

Unison Members

September 2019

survey

VIOLENCE AT WORK SURVEY

During the past few years Unison has recognised a dramatic rise in violence at work incidents, especially against staff within the public sector.

Following a number of discussions the Blaenau Gwent Unison Branch have decided to establish how far reaching and significant this increasing, unacceptable behaviour is having on the workforce within Blaenau Gwent.

To do this Unison are requesting that you spare a minute of your time to complete the simple one page questionnaire in the link shown below. Following receipt of your completed anonymous questionnaires the Unison Branch Chair will develop a report that will be shared with you, highlighting any key findings. Also, the report will be shared with the Corporate Leadership Team with the intention of improving practices where identified.

Blaenau Gwent Unison Executive Branch want all staff to know they believe the council must take a zero tolerance attitude towards violence at work and your cooperation will allow Unison help make the place a safer and more happier workplace.

Please remember, The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) defines work-related violence as: Any incident in which a person is abused, threatened or assaulted in circumstances relating to their work. This can include verbal abuse or threats as well as physical attacks.

Click here for the survey

Blaenau Gwent

Help And Support

BLAENAU GWENT HELP AND SUPPORT

Everyone has their own reasons for joining UNISON, but everyone receives our help and support. Whatever you're going through, we can help! Call 01495 355252.

Blaenau Gwent

Closing date 26th August 2019

WIN A HOLIDAY

Equality is one of UNISON's core values and every year, we ask our members about the issues affecting them. This then helps our campaigning work.

Last year over 23,000 members took part and helped inform briefings for the union's service groups and self-organised groups on key issues for their bargaining and organising agendas.

The survey runs annually and is not just for activists, so please get involved - and encourage as many of your workmates and family as possible to take part. It closes on 26 August.

And as a thank you for taking part you'll be entered into a prize draw to win a mini break in beautiful Devon at UNISON's own Croyde Bay Holiday Resort.
Click here for details

Famly holidays

July 2019

date 21st July 2019

SUMMER BAND CONCERT

This week Tredegar Male Voice Orpheus Choir will be performing as part of our Summer Band Concerts. The concert will be held in the Bandstand (weather permitting) starting at 3pm.

These are concerts are FREE so come along and enjoy this wonderful entertainment.

Refreshments are available to purchase from the Orchid House Cafe at Bedwellty House or bring along a picnic.

Further information available for all events Click here for details

Blaenau Gwent

Closing date Friday 19th July 2019

School Uniform Grant Help

GET HELP WITH SCHOOL UNIFORM COSTS THIS SUMMER

Struggling to make ends meet? Worried about back to school costs? Help is on hand.

We have set up a limited fund to help UNISON members on low income with school uniform costs by way of a one-off payment of up to £120.

To apply, download the application form from:
unison.org.uk/get-help or contact UNISONDirect on 0800 0 857 857.
Closing date for receipt of applications is Friday 19 July 2019.

Blaenau Gwent

April - May
Closing Date
17th May 2019

date 17th May 2019

UNISON IN BLAENAU GWENT

Many thanks for voting on UNISON's elections for our National Executive Committee. Every vote does matter. Ballot closed at 5pm on 17th May 2019.

Ballot

March 2019

date 16th March 2019

NO TO RACISM

This Saturday (March 16th) assemble for 11am at City Hall, Cardiff (CF10 3ND) marching to Grange Gardens at approximately midday. Join them to say No Racism and No Fascism.

No To Racism

February 2019

date 21st FebruaryAGM Agenda

BLAENAU GWENT AGM

Thursday 21st February 2019 @ 5:00pm in the Council Chamber Civic Centre, Ebbw Vale, NP23 6XB.

AGM Logo

February 2019

A FIRST IN WALES FOR BLAENAU GWENT

Blaenau Gwent Council has become the first local authority in Wales to sign Unison's Ethical Care Charter reinforcing its commitment to fair working for home carers.

An online survey, 'Time to Care', carried out by the trade union showed that home care workers often feel poorly paid and treated and that they don't always have enough time with clients to provide the necessary care, support and companionship due to time travelling between calls.

Unison's over-riding objective behind the Charter is to establish a minimum baseline for the safety; quality and dignity of care by ensuring employment conditions support the recruitment and retention of a more stable workforce through more sustainable pay, conditions and training levels.

The Council is confident that working practices for home carers in Blaenau Gwent are good and signing the Charter is a continued commitment going forward, as well as the appetite to improve if necessary. In Blaenau Gwent the Council is keen to promote home care as a good career path for people of all ages and is hoping to attract more people into the role.

As well as adhering to the Charter for its direct employees, the Council also works closely with its commissioned domiciliary care providers to ensure that high quality care is provided.

The Council is already committed to paying its employees the Foundation Living Wage.

Dave Prentis, the General Secretary for Unison and Margaret Thomas, UNISON Cymru Wales Regional Secretary, visited the General Offices in Ebbw Vale today to sign the Charter with the Council's Managing Director Michelle Morris; the Council's Deputy Leader Cllr Garth Collier and Executive Member for Social Services Cllr John Mason.

Cllr Garth Collier, Deputy Leader of Blaenau Gwent Council said:
"It is wonderful to be leading the way in Wales by signing the Ethical Care Charter today. At Blaenau Gwent Council we work closely and positively with our trade unions for the good and wellbeing of all our employees. The Ethical Care Charter is something that this administration feels very strongly about and I am delighted that we are the first Council in Wales to put pen to paper and show our real commitment to this."
Cllr John Mason, Executive Member for Social Services said:
"We are passionate that all our employees are supported by good and fair working conditions and in Social Services we want home carers to be able to do their jobs effectively. The carers are the people best placed to tell us exactly what support the people in their care need and by listening to them we can make sure that the best interests of our residents are being met. We are committed to working with all partners to provide high quality care and this will continue as we move forward with any future new care contracts. There is a need for more home carers so we will also be working to promote the role in the hope that we can attract more people to train up."
Dave Prentis said:
"Ensuring fair employment conditions for care workers is essential if they are to improve the quality of life of the people they look after. UNISON's ethical care charter highlights the key role that care workers play in society, by fighting to secure the pay and working conditions they deserve."

Contact Blaenau Gwent Branch

UNISON Office
Blaenau Gwent General Offices
Steel Works Rd, Ebbw Vale NP23 8UW
Telephone: 01495 355252