News

West Midlands Fire Service to become a Living Wage employer

Mon, 13/04/2015 - 12:41

West Midlands Fire Service to become a Living Wage employer

Members at West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS) look set to be paid at least ‘The Living Wage’, if the move is approved by members of West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority (WMFRA).

UNISON began negotiations with the brigade in late 2014 and a report is being presented at a meeting of the WMFRA on Monday 13 April recommending that the service adopt the living wage from 1 April 2015.   

More pain and little gain for workers today, says UNISON

Thu, 19/03/2015 - 10:40

More pain and little gain for workers today, says UNISON
 

Commenting on today’s Budget: Ravi Subramanian, UNISON West Midlands Regional Secretary said:

"For five years of pain, there appears to be very little gain on offer today for ordinary workers.

"With more money than expected at his disposal, the Chancellor could have called time on the government’s damaging austerity policies.

UNISON VACANCIES

Wed, 25/02/2015 - 10:33

Jobs at UNISON

• South East: regional organisers (x2) 06 January 2015

The regional organiser is the key generic organising role in the region, with responsibility for recruitment, retention and organisation of members. Starting salary: £43,031 pa. Closing date: Friday 6 March 2015
 

• South East: team support worker 06 January 2015

Childcare Disqualification Regulations Update

Thu, 29/01/2015 - 13:19

The Branch has received a number of enquiries regarding the application of the Childcare Disqualification Regulations and the completion of forms provided by schools.

 

We have attached an update from UNISON Nationally with regards to this which we trust will answer all the questions asked.  If you have any further queries or concerns please do not hesitate to contact the Branch.

 

Alan James

Branch Secretary 01743 252958

Schools Suspend Staff in Child Protection Confusion

Thu, 22/01/2015 - 08:53

School staff working in Primary schools will be aware that they are being asked to complete and sign a Suitability and Disqualification form.  We have attached some relevant documents that should help to explain UNISON's stance on this.  We are also seeking further clarification regarding the need to sign the section giving the school the authority to access your medical records.  The Branch Secretary is advising that this section is left unsigned until legal advice has been obtained. 

 

Alan James, Branch Secretary

 

NHS DISPUTE ESCALATES AS UNISON ANNOUNCES 12 AND 24 HOUR STRIKES IN JANUARY AND FEBRUARY

Mon, 19/01/2015 - 08:25

NHS DISPUTE ESCALATES AS UNISON ANNOUNCES 12 AND 24 HOUR STRIKES IN JANUARY AND FEBRUARY

HUGE MOBILISATION AND GROWING PUBLIC SUPPORT FOR THE NHS STRIKERS

Tue, 25/11/2014 - 13:50

UNISON health workers on strike yesterday received tremendous support during their four-hour stoppage.
Tens of thousands walked out in protest at the Government’s decision to deny a paltry 1% pay rise to all NHS staff.
There were picket lines on every acute hospital, ambulance station and across many community health services. Workers provided life and limb cover and cared for anyone in need of emergency treatment.
Franco Buonaguro, UNISON West Midlands Regional Head of Health said:

Police Front Counter Closures

Wed, 19/11/2014 - 08:37

Police Front Counter Closures

Following a review of Police front counters across the West Midlands it has been announced today that twenty seven are set to close. The closures will take place over the next 12 months and is an attempt to save £3 million, while protecting frontline policing. This means that just ten front offices will remain open between 8am to 10pm and Birmingham Central will remain open 24/7.
Charlie Sarell, UNISON West Midlands Regional Organiser for Police and Justice said:

Local Government Branches call for a Special Conference on Local Government pay.

Tue, 18/11/2014 - 14:41

Local Government Branches call for a Special Conference on Local Government pay.

81% of Barnet Council workforce to be outsourced!

Tue, 18/11/2014 - 11:27

81% of Barnet Council workforce to be outsourced!
Barnet UNISON Press Release: 18 November 2014

Later this week the Environment & Adults Safeguarding Committee are due vote on decisions to begin the process of outsourcing Council staff working in Street Scene (refuse & recycling, street cleansing, parks etc) and Adult Social Care (social workers).
These decisions follow earlier Committee meetings which also recommended outsourcing.
The numbers of staff to be outsourced are as follows:

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