ARCHIVE 2022 - 2023 STORIES
December 2023
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR
As 2023 comes to an end, I want to thank all of you who’ve been working tirelessly to keep our public services going. I also want to thank those who’ve given up their time to support members, through representation and UNISON’s campaign work.
December 2023
CHRISTMAS REWARDS
As a UNISON member you can save £££’s on discounted gift vouchers and shopping cards and get cashback from top retailers such as M&S, Very, Comet, Thorntons and more.
#ChristmasRewards #SaveMoney View website detail link here
November 2023
STARS IN OUR SCHOOLS
Stars in Our Schools is an annual celebration of school support staff. This year the event will take place on Friday 24 November 2023 – but we encourage schools to join in whenever suits them!
#StarsInOurSchools #EarlyYearsStars View Stars In Our Schools website link here
November 2023
TEACHING ASSISTANTS
In a recent survey of teaching assistants two-thirds of those who took part (66%) said they have not received enough training to deliver the curriculum.
Others said that on in-service training days (INSET days), which are meant to be used for staff development, they had been asked to clean classrooms and do photocopying.
Hundreds of teaching assistants say they don’t have adequate training to deliver the Curriculum for Wales, says their union UNISON.
November 2023
REGIONAL ORGANISER RECRUITMENT
Ever thought about becoming a UNISON regional organiser?
UNISON is now recruiting and looking for a fantastic regional organiser in Wales.
Regional organiser Rosie Lewis (pictured above) says her job is rewarding, challenging and varied and offers the chance to really make a difference in the world of work.
November 2023
REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY
Remembrance Sunday is a national opportunity to remember the service and sacrifice of all those that have defended our freedoms and protected our way of life.
November 2023
PAY UP IMPORTANT UPDATE
Following our 2023 pay ballet results in the summer, UNISON’s NJC Committee made the decision not to pursue industrial action. UNISON met with the other local government unions, GMB and Unite, on Wednesday 1 November, and the joint decision is to accept the pay offer for 2023 of an increase of £1,925 on all NJC pay points (pro rata’d for part-time and term time only staff). The pay award will be backdated to 1 April 2023.
We want to thank you for your patience while we have worked to resolve this year's pay dispute. The local government employers have been informed and our immediate priority is to get the money into the pay packets of our hardworking members as soon as possible. If you have any questions, please contact your local branch.
The NJC Committee will be meeting in November, and we are starting preparations for the 2024 pay campaign as a matter of urgency, starting with consulting on and submitting a joint pay claim. The fight to restore local government pay will continue and we plan to be stronger than ever to get fair pay for councils and school workers.
November 2023
GREEN SQUIRREL
Unison Cymru Wales Learning
26 October at 10:15
Wonderful evening webinars coming up on...
6/12 Christmas Crafts
17/1 Energy Saving in the kitchen
31/1 Saving Money
21/2 Green Spring Cleaning
20/3 Nature Friendly Gardening
FREE for all public service workers in Wales. Green Squirrel Unison College Unison Wales
October 2023
DON'T CUT OUR REPS
We stand in solidarity with our Trade Union colleagues from Merthyr Council.
Merthyr Council cuts access to union reps for hundreds of workers.
Hundreds of council and school workers in a Welsh local authority are due to have access to a union representative slashed.
Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council is cutting the amount of time staff can spend with union reps under plans due to come into force.
The move will affect 660 workers represented by public services union UNISON Cymru/Wales.
Over the last six months alone, UNISON reps in Merthyr Council have dealt with queries on everything from bullying to sexual harassment.
The local authority is cutting access to union reps for staff from five down to two days a week.
October 2023
CARE SERVICES
UNISON calls for the Welsh government to intervene in Rhondda care privatisation threat.
Hundreds of vulnerable people in Rhondda Cynon Taf could soon see the quality of care they receive compromised as the local authority considers privatising services, says UNISON.
UNISON Cymru/Wales, which represents thousands of care workers across the country, is calling for the Welsh government to step in and prevent this.
October 2023
SALUTING OUR SISTERS
This year’s Black History Month, in October, is themed ‘Saluting our Sisters’. UNISON is using the month to celebrate exceptional women working in health.
October 2023
STARS IN OUR SCHOOLS
Twinkle, twinkle: Stars in Our Schools is back.
Stars in Our Schools is back, and this year there’s a special focus on early years education. But hurry - the deadline for ordering all your fantastic Stars merch is 6 October.
October 2023
COUNCIL FUNDING GAP
Click on your area to find out the funding gap - CUTS ARE COMING!!
If you aren't in a Trade Union you need to be - Join Unison today.
#JoinUNISON
How bad will cuts to services be where you live?
Click on your council to find out the funding gap facing vital services in your community. The coronavirus pandemic has cost councils billions. Now services we all rely on are facing catastrophic cuts.
September 2023
BRON AFON WORKERS SUPPORT
Housing workers in Cwmbran are being forced to use foodbanks to survive while bosses are receiving a £6,000 pay rise, says UNISON.
Staff at social enterprise Bron Afon Community Housing have had a below inflation pay rise imposed upon them and some say they are now relying on food banks to support their families.
UNISON and the GMB union are holding a demonstration over the pay dispute at Bron Afon on Thursday (September 28) outside the Bron Afon Housing Association on Llantarnum Way in Cwmbran from 4pm to 6pm.
September 2023
TUC 2023 / 24 TRAINING COURSES
There is some fabulous learning available with the TUC coming soon.
Develop yourself and your skills and knowledge with some of our amazing Trade Union learning offers.
Further information and booking.
WALES: TUC Wales courses link here here
ALL: TUC courses link here here
September 2023
EQUAL PAY
Blog: In the campaign for equal pay, UNISON stands firmly on the frontline
To achieve wage equality across the whole of our society, and to permanently close pay gaps, we need systemic change.
September 2023
CABINET STATEMENT
Written Statement: Education update on Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete
August 2023
9/10 - More Plants - Simple, planet friendly #food swaps
23/10 - How to reduce your online climate footprint
6/11 - Climate Resilient #gardening
20/11 - Not Buying it - Detecting & Rejecting #greenwashing
27/11 - How to have great #climate conversations at work
ONLINE COURSES
Unison Cymru Wales Learning is with Green Squirrel and Unison Wales.
Learn fun, practical and useful environmental skills on Monday lunchtimes this autumn with our new webinar series created and delivered by the wonderful people at Green Squirrel.
These sessions are the perfect build-up to #COP28 and great for anyone who wants to take the important actions - big and small, individual and collective - that will make a difference to the #ClimateChange and #Biodiversity emergencies.
August 2023
AUTUMN COURSES
Our exclusive UNISON member-only courses for schools staff this autumn will help you to deal with some of the most the challenging and rewarding parts of your job - working with children with autism, ADAD and low-level behaviour issues.
Tutors from expert provider 2Resolve will guide you though these important topics, with online sessions starting at 3pm in October and November.
August 2023
UNISON CYMRU WALES LEARNING
We're delighted to be able to offer UNISON members in Wales the opportunity to learn more about Autism with the wonderful Adjust Services - a provider we've trusted for many years.
The online session is a members-only event on Wednesday 22nd November 2023, starting at 12:45
July 2023
HAPPY BIRTHDAY NHS
Staff are the backbone of our NHS, with over 1.5 million people working as one team to deliver safe patient care.
From wards to walk-ins, corridors to communities, offices to operating theatres, labs to laundries and everywhere in between, UNISON celebrates the dedicated and diverse team of staff who have steered our health service to its 75th birthday.
Happy birthday NHS! #75Today #NHS
July 2023
UNISON 30 YEARS
On Saturday July 1, the Uk's largest Union turned 30. What year did you join?
#Unison30 #UnisonWales #Unison
June 2023
NATIONAL DELEGATES CONFERENCE 2023
It’s that time of year once again when the gang gets together for National Delegates Conference 2023!
#UNDC23 #NationalCareService #ShowRacismTheRedCard #UnisonWales
June 2023
Event July
DIWRNOD BEVAN - BEVAN DAY
A date for your diary. UNISON regional secretary Dominic MacAskill will be speaking at this event to mark 75 years of the #NHS #WalesTUC #TUCCymru
June 2023
CHANGING JOBS
Social workers quit council jobs in favour of agencies
More social workers in Wales are quitting permanent council paid work and signing up with agencies due to burnout and stress, according to figures seen by UNISON.
Social Care Wales (SCW) research has revealed a rise in social workers leaving permanent jobs with local authorities in favour of agency work from 2019 to 2021.
Read more link here
UNISON’s Mark Turner. Photo credit: Natasha Hirst
May 2023
6 REASONS TO JOIN UNISON
Heart UNISON is part of Heart Unions Week, the TUC’s annual event celebrating unions, and encouraging everyone to join one.
May 2023
NJC STRIKE BALLOT
UNISON has been campaigning for a decent pay rise for council and school workers, who receive little recognition for their hard work.
Over the past 12 years, council and school staff have lost on average 25% from the value of their pay when measured against the Retail Price Index (RPI).
UNISON has called for a pay increase of inflation plus 2%, but employers are only offering a flat-rate increase. In a cost-of-living crisis, it's not good enough.
Find out more and don't forget to vote.
May 2023
Ballot closes:
USE YOUR VOTE
National Executive Council Ballot Papers and Election Statements have started to arrive through the post!! Make sure you return your voting paper in the pre-paid envelope provided.
The ballot closes on 19th May 2023.
The NEC is elected by members to do the following:
- Uphold the union’s aims, values and rules.
- Provide leadership and direction.
- Ensure the union’s income, property and funds are safeguarded.
- Maintain standards and quality.
You are entitled to vote in all elections on the ballot paper regardless of seat type.
If you have not yet received your pack, call the ballot helpline on 0800 0857 857. The textphone number is 0800 0967 968. Remember, it’s YOUR CHOICE, it only takes minutes and EVERY VOTE COUNTS, so please vote.
April 2023
WORKER'S MEMORIAL DAY
You are invited to attend Wales' National Workers' Memorial Day event.
Join us for refreshments followed by a short ceremony to lay wreaths at the National Workers' Memorial Stone. We will be joined by dignitaries including trade union leaders.
April 2023
PAY UP 2023
As we get closer to the opening of UNISON's industrial action ballot for council and school workers in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, it's so important to make sure that you and your colleagues are ballot ready.
To make the local government employers see that you are serious about demanding a decent pay rise, every eligible member must post their ballot paper back to us with a YES vote when the time comes. The ballot opens in May. #payup2023
March 2023
PAY UP 2023
Care workers, refuse collectors, social workers, teaching assistants, community workers, street cleaners and so many more go above and beyond every single day. Local government staff keep communities safe, clean and accessible, yet there is often little or no recognition for your hard work.
With the cost-of-living skyrocketing to new highs every day, it’s time to rise up and demand decent pay for the work you do.
#PayUp2023
March 2023
CELEBRATING WORKING WOMEN: UNISON INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY 2023
The union will celebrate International Women’s Day with an event in Glasgow in March 2023.
UNISON is organising an International Women’s Day event in Glasgow on 8 March next year to celebrate the contributions of care workers, cleaners, school workers, librarians, and administrators to their workplaces, communities and the union.
March 2023
BRANCH DEVELOPMENT
Branch Development Weekend for UNISON in Gwent Branches at Bryn Meadows Hotel and Golf Club.
Fantastic morning session with Esther, Stuart and Tony from Sight Cymru delivering Sight Loss Awareness Training to representatives from Monmouthshire, Torfaen, Caerphilly, Newport and Blaenau Gwent.
March 2023
UNISON CYMRU WALES LEARNING
Places on all our courses this March are going quickly, so don't miss out.
We put on courses, workshops and conferences aimed at building the skills and confidence of the public service workerforce, working in partnership with our Branches, employers and specialist learning providers.
February 2023
JOIN A UNION
Heart Unions - there's power in a union. When workers act and speak together, their employer has to listen. That’s how unions make things better at work.
Together, we’re stronger. So join a union today.
https://www.tuc.org.uk/join-a-union
#HeartUnions #CaruUndebau #HeartUnionsWeek #UnisonWales #JoinAUnion
February 2023
11,000 NEW UNISON MEMBERS IN WALES REGIONS FOR 2022
Were you one of them? Join UNISON today and be part of something bigger!
#UnisonWales
February 2023
RIGHT TO STRIKE
Dear General Council members,
The Wales TUC is organising a day of action on the right to strike on Wednesday 1st February and we’re holding a rally outside the Wales Office in Cardiff (near Betty Campbells statue) at 11.30, to protest against the Bill. The following union representatives have been asked to speak (Unison, GMB, NEU, NAHT, PCS, Unite, RMT, FBU, NASUWT, UCU, UCAC, Prospect, CWU, RCM). We would like to maximise turnout, so please can you share the information with your wider members in Wales.
This gives the Trade Union movement an opportunity to express how the Right To Strike will affect their members.
Please find link with the relevant information regarding Right To Strike rally here
January - 2023
WINTER FUEL GRANT OPENS
UNISON’s welfare charity, There for You, opens its annual programme offering grants of £200 next week – find out if you’re eligible to apply
The winter fuel grant programme opens next week at 10am on Wednesday 25 January.
It offers a one-off, non-repayable grant of £200 to help UNIONS’s most vulnerable low-income members and to help ease the worry of paying for their next fuel bill during the coldest months of the year.
January - 2023
PROTECT THE RIGHT TO STRIKE
Our right to strike is under attack.
Rishi Sunak has just detailed his anti-union legislation and plans to introduce new laws in the coming weeks.
It means that when workers democratically vote to strike, they could be forced to work and sacked if they don’t. That’s wrong, unworkable, and almost certainly illegal.
These new laws are a direct attack on working people’s fundamental right to strike to defend their pay, terms and conditions.
January - 2023
ANTI-STRIKE BILL
Three things you need to know about the anti-strike bill.
The government's new law is being voted on and is a full frontal attack on the rights of working people.
The UK is seeing record levels of strike action as ambulance workers, nurses, transport workers and teachers take a stand against the crisis in our public services.
Yet, rather than engaging with the people who keep our country running, or finding solutions to staffing shortages and waiting lists, the government is intent on punishing frontline workers when they speak out.
January - 2023
SCHOOL SUPPORT STAFF SEMINAR
Save the date for the Unison Wales Schools Seminar on Friday January 20, 2023. 9:00 - 16:30. Radisson Blu, Bute Terrace, Cardiff CF10 2FL.
This is a free event available to all UNISON members working in a schools support staff role in Wales.
We are really looking forward to welcoming as many schools support staff as possible at this very important event. This is an opportunity for you to raise issues affecting you and your school with the First Minister and the Minister for Education and Welsh Language as well as receive training in our afternoon workshops.
Spaces are limited so if you would like to attend this event please e-mail d.rees@unison.co.uk before Thursday December 15.
- Welcome from First Minister of Wales, Mark Drakeford MS
- Keynote speech from Minister For Education and Welsh Language, Jeremy Miles MS
- Workshops include: Appropriate deployment of teaching assistants in Wales / Social prescribing / Violence and sexual harrassment in schools / Managing challenging behavior / Education Workforce Council and how we can support your professional development
- Sessions on violence towards school staff, whether the teaching assistant job description is fit for purpose, and making schools more LGBTQ+ friendly
- Exhibitor visits
December - 2022
HELPLINE SUPPORT
Here are the contact numbers for many helpline suport organisation.
- Anxiety UK 03444 775 774
- Samaritans samaritans.org.uk
- Mind 0300 123 3393
- Papyrus 0800 068 41 41
- Childline 0800 1111
- Refuge 0808 2000 247
- Young Minds youngminds.org.uk
- Switchboard LGBT+ 0300 330 0610
- Shout giveusashout.org
- Calm 0800 58 58 58
- Beat 0808 801 0677
- AA 0800 9177 650
December - 2022
SUPPORT THE STRIKES
Come and support striking workers and hear about the continuing fight against the cost of living crisis at the 7th Annual Bob Crow Memorial Meeting on December 2nd at 7:30pm, Blackwood Miners Institude Caerphilly Trades Council.
Speakers from #NHSPay15, Postal Workers CWU, Telecomms CWU, Rail Workers RMT and you from the floor of the meeting. Entry free.
November - 2022
ENERGY SUPPORT FUND
UNISON Welfare’s Energy Support Fund is open at 10am on Wednesday 16 November to help eligible members with rising fuel costs.
Please be advised that phase 2 will be closed once the first 4000 applications have been received. The Energy Support Fund is a one-off, non-repayable grant of £200.
November - 2022
FOOD BANKS
Food banks under pressure from a ‘tsunami of need’. Food bank charity The Trussell Trust reports that one in five working people are now turning to food banks, as the cost of living crisis takes its toll.
New figures from food bank charity The Trussell Trust show that 1.3million emergency food parcels were given out between April and September this year – more than ever before.
November - 2022
CLIMATE JUSTICE COALITION
This Saturday, thousands of people across the UK, and around the world, are gathering together to demand #climatejustice. It is up to us to push our leaders into action. To help build this movement, invite 3 people to join you. For more information visit.
November 12 will see mass mobilisations across the country and put thousands of people on the streets to demand Climate Justice in solidarity with the Global Day of Action called by Egyptian groups at COP27.
November - 2022
REMEMBRANCE DAY
Armistice Day, or Remembrance Day as it's also known, marks the very day that World War One ended in 1918. We hold a two-minute silence at 11am on the 11th day of the 11th month to remember those who have died in any conflict.
November - 2022
JOIN US
We went to lobby Parliment around the issues that are facing our members in this awful cost of living crises. We had some good conversations with the MP for Blaenau Gwent Nick Smith. We will be doing lots more of these over the next few month, if your interested in coming along - please get in touch.
November - 2022
COST OF LIVING SURVIVAL EVENT - SESSIONS
Here are the edited versions of the talks, workshops and webinars that made up the Unison Cymru/Wales Cost of Living Survival Event on 20 October 2022.
Cost of Living Survival - Sessions | Cost of Living Crisis Survival | UNISON Cymru/Wales
November - 2022
NJC PAY UPDATE
Dear members,
Unison has received a good number of enquiries regarding this financial year’s pay award with particular reference to when will members receive the award.
I am pleased to let you know, the council has received a joint circular from the Local Government Association/NJC, confirming an agreement has been reached on rates of pay for 2022/23.
This means the council and all other NJC employers will be in a place to pay you the increase and back pay in November’s pay run.
If you would like any further information on this year’s agreement, please give the branch office a call or send an email.
Thank you.
October - 2022
VOTE YES FOR NHS
The government’s NHS pay award is nowhere near enough in a cost-of-living crisis. It's time to #VoteYesfortheNHS
UNISON is sending out ballot papers in England, Wales and N.I on 27 October - look out for yours and post it back to us by 25 November.
October - 2022
WEAR RED DAY 2022
Text 'RED' to 70470 to give £1 / Text 'RED5' to 70470 to give £5 / Text 'RED10' to 70470 to give £10 / Text 'RED20' to 70470 to give £20 - Texts cost donation amount + Standard rate message #showracismtheredcard #wearredday #hateracism #WRD22
October - 2022
COST OF LIVING SURVIVAL EVENT
You are invited to join us for an important online event on 20th October aimed at providing you with the information you need to survive in these challenging times.
October - 2022
WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY
It's World Mental Health day today. It's OK to ask for help and its OK NOT to be OK. If you're struggling and need some help please reach out to someone.
#WMHD2022 #WHMD #MentalHealth #WorldMentalHealthDay2022 #WorldMentalHealthDay
It’s World Mental Health Day. An opportunity to talk about mental health. To share tips & advice. And to let people know that it’s okay to ask for help if you’re struggling:
October - 2022
IMPACT OF COST OF LIVING CRISIS
A heart-breaking survey by UNISON Cymru/Wales, which represents tens of thousands of public sector workers in Wales, has revealed the devastating impact of the cost-of-living crisis on those providing vital public services.
The news comes as the union is preparing to host a major rally against the crisis in the centre of Cardiff as well as launching a ballot of health workers for industrial action following a derisory pay award.
October - 2022
TACKLING RACISM
Members,
Here's a newsletter from our Black Members Rep, Evelyn Williams to coincide with Black History Month in October. Thank you to Anwen Cullinane and Geraint Ashton from the Council Equalities team for their invaluable contributions.
#blackmembersinunison
Unison Wales
October - 2022
NJC PAY BALLOT -
UNISON RESULTS
BREAKING: UNISON members in councils and schools have voted to ACCEPT the national pay offer.
There are three recognised unions involved in the local government pay talks: UNISON, GMB and Unite.
We now await the results of GMB’s and Unite’s consultations on 2022 pay, both of which will end in October.
September / October - 2022
UNISON GREEN WEEK
Here's a newsletter from our new Green Rep, Emma Saunders to coincide with UNISON Green Week from September 23rd to October 1st. Look out for more hints and tips across our social media platforms to ‘go green’ throughout the week!
September - 2022
COST OF LIVING CRISIS: HAVE YOUR SAY
We know the cost-of-living crisis has placed people in very difficult positions and members and their families are hurting.
As we campaign for greater investment in public service workers with politicians and in the Welsh media, we want to be able to present a detailed picture of exactly how people are struggling to make ends meet and we’d like your help.
Please take a few minutes to complete our survey via the links below, it’s available in English and Welsh.
September - 2022
THE DEATH OF HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN
UNISON general secretary Christina McAnea said:
"Everyone's thoughts will be with the royal family at this sad time. I'd like to offer UNISON's sincere condolences.
"The Queen has given a lifetime of exemplary public services and her loss will be felt deeply across the whole of the UK and Commonwealth."
September - 2022
GET HELP WITH THE COST OF LIVING
We understand that the rising cost of living can be especially worrying if you have difficulty paying your bills and/or your rent. Here are the latest links from the Welsh Government website for help and advice available.
September - 2022
HELP FOR HOUSEHOLDS
We know people are worried so the government is offering help for households. See what cost of living support you could be eligible for.
August - 2022
VOTE TODAY,
DECIDE YOUR PAY
NJC Pay ballot opens today runs until 19th September - If we have an email address you will be emailed a link soon to vote. Please check all email address and your spam/junk email folders.
If we don't have an email address for you or you haven't received the email then please let your Unison Branch know ASAP so we can include you in the ballot.
Please send a message and USE YOUR VOTE!!
August - 2022
HAVE YOUR SAY
Higher Education pay campaign and strike ballot 2022.
Have your say on Higher Education pay.
The University and Colleges Employers Association have made their final pay offer: a below-inflation pay rise of 3% for most Higher Education staff and between 9% and 3% for those on pay points 3 to 19. They didn’t offer any more during the dispute process and will now impose this pay increase on 1 August 2022.
With RPI inflation at 11.8% and your pay only set to go up by 3% this pay rise is a pay cut. The higher increases on the lower spinal points are partly being proposed to keep pay at legal rates – we think you’re worth more than that.
July - 2022
UK WORKERS WIN
Huge win for UK workers! All workers will now receive the same minimum level of paid annual holiday leave, regardless of how many hours they work, thanks to a case brought by UNISON in the UK Supreme Court.
The judgment will particularly affect agency, part-time and term-time workers including thousands of school support staff.
Now it will no longer be possible for employers to argue staff who don’t work all year are only entitled to holiday based on the hours they work.
Today’s decision is also good news for anyone working irregular hours or on zero-hours contracts.
July - 2022
WE NEED MORE
Don't forget, there are lots of ways you can get involved in our campaign for better pay for council and school workers, check them out. #WeNeedMore
July - 2022
EXTREME HEAT WARNINGS
Information for members in response to Amber and Red warnings of extreme heat.
July - 2022
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
Happy Birthday NHS. Here’s to the remarkable people who have worked in the NHS over the last 74 years, the lives saved, supported and improved. Proud to support the whole NHS team and fight to defend our national service.
June - 2022
DEMAND BETTER
An incredible turnout for the TUC march and rally in London today.
Angela Rayner joined Christina McAnea to lead the charge to Parliament.
June - 2022
DEMAND ACTION DEMONSTRATION
Christina McAnea: Lets send a strong message on 18 June.
June - 2022
LONDON DEMONSTRATION
All public sector workers are being forced to deal with a toxic mix of a decade of cuts combined with low wages and sky high fuel and energy bills as the cost-of-living crisis deepens.
On Saturday June 18, the trade union movement will be taking to the streets of London to demand action and UNISON Cymru/Wales is providing three buses to get our members to this vital demonstration.
Find out how to book your place on the buses here: Complete bus transport details link here
Wales TUC Cymru Trades Union Congress / (TUC) UNISON / Unison Swansea Bay Health Branch / Members Group NPT Unison / Unison Carms / Cangen Unsain Gwynedd / UNISON North Wales / Health Branch UNISON Velindre and PHW Branch Unison / Bridgend Unison / Powys Local Government Branch / Unison Cardiff Branch
Bus Details For South West Wales
Pick-ups: Haverfordwest (train station) at 6.00am; Llanelli (train station) at 7.30am and Swansea Moto services M4 Junction 47 at 7.45am
Bus Details For South Wales
Pick-ups: Merthyr Tydfil (Civic Building) at 7.00am; Pontypridd (bus station) at 7.25am; Cardiff (Museum steps) at 8.00am and Newport (train station) at 8.30am
To book your branches place on these buses, please email Helen Dunn-Jones h.dunn-jones@unison.co.uk with the name, email, mobile number and pick up point for each traveller.
Return journey will be picking back up near Parliament Square at 3pm.
June - 2022
BBC NEWSNIGHT
‘It’s not just energy bills that are going up. Fuel’s going up, cost of social and private rented housing, food. Everything is going up. That’s what our members are telling us’. Christina McAnea UNISON general secretary on BBC Newsnight.
‘It’s not my decision, but if NHS workers get offered just 3%, as general secretary I would strongly recommend our members consider strike action’.
June - 2022
SCHOOLS WEBINAR
Calling all those working in schools in Wales. What are your thoughts on the Welsh Government plans to explore changes to the school day and school term? Come along to a webinar this evening (7th June) at 6pm to let us know your opinion. You can book a place here:
May - 2022
to 
MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS WEEK
The official theme is ‘loneliness’ and, across the week, we encourage you to build meaningful connections with your friends, family, colleagues and communities.
#MentalHealthAwarenessWeek
#LetsConnect
Poster states: Mental Health UK. Let;s Connect! From 9th to 15th May 2022. Let's connect during Mental Health Awareness Week, and together, we can. We're asking people and organisations alike to consider their 'unique contribution' in tackling loneliness, isolation and the barriers to connection. We need to, raise awareness, invire conversation, volunteer your time, ask others to act.
May - 2022
WHAT HAVE THE UNIONS DONE FOR US
- Two day weekends
- Maternity and Paternity leave
- 8 hour working days
- Workplace pensions
- Paid holidays
- Equality Rights
- Health and Safety at work
- Minimum wage
- Collective bargaining
- The NHS and more
May - 2022
LOCAL ELECTIONS - HAVE YOUR SAY
16-year-olds will be voting for the first time in a local election in Wales.
Unison Wales has heard from first time voter Julia who told us public services are vital to her. She said: "Voting is vital for me because without doing so, people may not see the change that they would like to see, in the government, and in their day-to-day lives.
"By voting everyone has a say in their future and positive change will be implemented.
"It is extremely important for me as it reminds me that as a community we have a say and in turn change will take place."
Let us know if you are voting for the first time and why public services are important for you.
#localelections2022 #LocalElections #LocalElectionsMatter UNISON Unison in Local Government
April - 2022
INTERNATIONAL WORKERS MEMORIAL DAY
Today is International Workers’ Memorial Day and it is our day to remember those who have died and fight for the living.
Up to 50,000 people die each year in the UK from work-related ill health and accidents. Although few UNISON members die in workplace incidents, many suffer injuries and work-related ill health.
April - 2022
ENERGY SEMINAR
Energy workers from across Wales will be joining industry experts and key politicians for the first ever energy seminar run by UNISON Cymru/Wales.
Welsh Government Climate Change Minister Julie James MS will be among the speakers at the event on Wednesday April 27 at the Radisson Hotel in the centre of Cardiff.
#UNISONpriorities Read more
April - 2022
LOCAL COUNCIL ELECTIONS
The local council elections in May are a great opportunity for UNISON Cymru Wales to talk about why it’s so important to invest in public services and in public service workers.
We want to influence politicians and public opinion to address the needs of working people and Welsh communities. We’re asking council candidates to pledge their support for UNISON’s priorities and work with us to deliver them.
#UNISONpriorities Read more
April - 2022
COST OF LIVING CRISIS
The Cost of Living Crisis is a political choice. Yet again the Tories are trying to make ordinary people pay.
Join People's Assembly nationwide protests on April 2nd to demand change.
#CostOfLivingCrisis #WeCantPay
March - 2022
UNION SUPPORT
Christina McAnea statement. Solidarity from @unisontheunion with @nautilusint and @RMTunion. UNISON will stand shoulder to shoulder with you. Shameful behaviour by @POferriesupdate - your reputation will not recover from this.
Nautilus International Statement
Nautilus International general secretary Mark Dickinson
The news that P&O Ferries is sacking the crew across its centre UK fleet is a betrayal of British workers. It is nothing short of scandalous given that this Dubai owned company received millions of pounds of British taxpayer's money during the pandemic.
There was no consultation and no notice given by P&O. Be assured the full resources of Nautilus International stand ready to act in defence of our members. We believe it is in our members' best interest to stay onboard until further notice.
March - 2022
MARCH AGAINST RACISM
Join us for a #MarchAgainstRacism on Sunday March 20 at City Hall in #Cardiff
#AllRefugeesWelcome
#Unions4Unity
#UnionsAgainstRacism
Trades Union Congress (TUC)
Wales TUC Cymru
Stand Up To Racism Wales
March - 2022
WORLD SOCIAL WORK DAY
Today is #WorldSocialWorkDay #WSWD2022
As the biggest union for social workers in the UK, representing over 40,000 people working in the sector, UNISON is recognising the day by launching a Social Work Manifesto.
March - 2022
UKRAINE SUPPORT
UNISON is working with the international trade union movement to mobilise support for those affected by the war in Ukraine – and branches and members can help too.
No one can fail to be moved by the scenes of terrified civilians taking shelter underground or of the hundreds of thousands of women and children desperately trying to cross the border to safety, to an uncertain future as a refugee.
March - 2022
INTERNATIONAL WOMENS DAY
Happy #InternationalWomensDay2022
“I stand
on the sacrifices
of a million women before me
thinking
what can I do
to make this mountain taller
so the women after me
can see farther"
Taken from the poem, Legacy by Rupi Kaur.
March - 2022
SAINT DAVID'S DAY
Dydd Gŵyl Dewi Hapus
Happy St David's Day
February - 2022
UKRAINE SOLIDARITY
As we witness shocking reports today of more suffering in Ukraine, we think of the public service workers - the first responders to devastating scenes, doing all they can to save lives.
We stand in solidarity with our sister trade unions and all workers across Ukraine - Christina McAnea, general secretary of UNISON, UK’s largest trade union for public service workers.
February - 2022
COST OF LIVING CRISIS
Join us on Saturday (19/2) for The People's Assembly Against Austerity march against the #costoflivingcrisis in the centre of Cardiff.
Energy bills are rising. Food prices are rising. Rent is rising....We Must Rise.
Meet at 2pm by the Betty Campbell Statue on Wood Street.
February - 2022
March - 2022
UNISON WALES UNION LEARNING
The UNISON Wales Union Learning Fund team are offering a range of webinars that are free and open to all schools staff. Be quick to sign up as places go fast! Book your free place on the Using Film in the Classroom (28th Feb 10am-12pm) here.
Heart UNISON link here
The UNISON Wales Union Learning Fund team are offering a range of webinars that are free and open to all schools staff. Be quick to sign up as places go fast! Book your free place on the Supporting Children’s Mental Health – Primary & Young Children Practitioner (16th March, 4-5pm) here.
Heart UNISON link here
February - 2022
to
HEART UNISON
Heart Union week is a chance to celebrate unions and show the difference unions make in the workplace and in the community. Find out more about what a union can do for you.
February - 2022
LOCAL SERVICES CHAMPIONS
This is your last chance: nominations for UNISON’s Local Service Champions Awards close today! Make sure to get your nomination in before 4pm. #LocalServiceChampions
February - 2022
WORLD CANCER DAY
We are remembering all those we have lost to this awful disease and to wish the absolute best to those who have beaten it.
At UNISON, we are keeping you all in our hearts on this day.
World Cancer Day - 4th February 2022.
February - 2022
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR MEMBERS
If you are a member and you are experiencing financial difficulties, whether due to coronavirus or other circumstances, There for You can offer you support, including one-off grants.
WINTER FUEL GRANT UPDATE
Important information.
For 2022 we will be processing our Winter Fuel Grants using an on-line application form*. Before applying, please read the following important information which should answer all your questions and explains the supporting documents you’ll need to include on applying.
January - 2022
UNISON MEMBERS WINTER FUEL FUND
This year’s UNISON winter fuel fund opens on 31 January.
The fund will offer grants of up to £200 and is designed to help the union’s most vulnerable low-income members.
It was announced today that inflation rose to 5.4% in the 12 months to December. With the cost of living rising at the fastest rate for 30 years, UNISON understands the financial hardship many members face whether it be due to rising living costs, the removal of universal credit uplift or other inflationary pressures.
In addition, the possibility of added pressure on low-income households looms as gas and electricity costs look set to increase even further in the near future.
January - 2022
ENOUGH IS ENOUGH
Thank you to all UNISON local government members who completed and returned their ballots over the last few weeks.
The ballot closes today, and we will provide an update as soon as we have the results.
#enoughisenough
January - 2022
ENOUGH IS ENOUGH
Vote yes for action on pay. Last date 14th January 2022.
#enoughisenough
December - January 2021/22
UNISON MEMBERS THANK YOU
A big thank you to all Unison Members working over the Christmas and New Year period.
Contact Your Local UNISON IN GWENT Branch
UNISON
Blaenau Gwent
County Branch
UNISON Office
Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council
Municipal Offices
Ebbw Vale
NP23 6XB
Telephone: 01495 355252
UNISON
Caerphilly
County Branch
UNISON Office
Tredomen Business & Technology Centre
Tredomen Park
Ystrad Mynach
CF82 7FN
Telephone: 01443 863279
UNISON Monmouthshire
County Branch
UNISON Office
1st Floor Community Education Centre
18 Maryport Street
Usk
Monmouthshire
NP15 8AE
Telephone: 01291 675502
UNISON
Torfaen
County Branch
UNISON Office
Civic Centre
Pontypool
NP4 6YB
Telephone: 01495 766356
Contact Your Local UNISON Branch for latest news, campaigns. meetings and offers.
UNISON, UNISON Centre, 130 Euston Road, London NW1 2AY.
Telephone: 0800 0 857 857
UNISON Cymru/Wales, UNISON House, Custom House Street, Cardiff, CF10 1AP. Telephone 0800 0 857 857
