Handbook for Reps
The role of local reps
Local workplace representatives represent members in their workplaces by dealing directly with line and local management on issues of local concern.
They are also on the front line and therefore best placed to publicise the work of the union and attract new members.
The best union representatives are those who are known, trusted and respected by members and managers in their own office.
Such representatives tend also to be familiar with the issues relevant to their own workplace.
These issues might be workplace campaigns of a collective nature that affect everybody or perhaps a group of people.
Alternatively they may be issues that affect just one individual who may, for example, want a union representative to come to a meeting with their manager.
Where an issue cannot be settled locally it can be referred to the GEC.
For others interested in the work of the union, there are tasks that don't involve being a rep in the more formal sense. For example:
- Distributing union circulars in your workplace
- Encouraging non-members to join
- Keeping the union notice board up-to-date
- Informing members about union policies and campaigns
- Acting as the eyes and ears of the union for your local rep
- Getting involved with the young members' forum.
None of these jobs are complicated and they don't take up a huge amount of time.
This section has details of important aspects of the reps' work:-
Facility time
Personal cases
Guide to recruiting new members
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