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UNISONEAST MIDLANDS

REGION

EDUCATION PROGRAMME

2018For further information contact: Learning & Member Development Team UNISON East Midlands Region UNISON Regional Centre Vivian Avenue Nottingham NG5 1AF

Tel: 0115 847 5457 Fax: 0115 847 5455 Text Tel: 0115 847 5462

Email: [email protected] Website: www.unison.org.uk/east-midlands www.twitter.com/UNISONEMidsLMD www.facebook.com/#!/pages/UNISON-East

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UNISON EAST MIDLANDS EDUCATION PROGRAMME 2018

- CONTENTS -

STEWARDS PASSPORT COURSES PAGE The Organising Steward: Stewards Passport Modules 1 & 2 3 Online UNISON Stewards Course: Stewards Passport Modules 1 & 2 4 ERA Re-accreditation 5 Advanced Representation, Campaigning and Negotiating Skills: 6

Stewards Passport Modules 3, 4 & 5

HEALTH & SAFETY REPRESENTATIVES PASSPORT COURSES PAGE Organising for Safety: Health & Safety Representatives Passport Modules 1 & 2 7 Advanced Representation, Campaigning and Negotiating Skills: Health & Safety 7

Representatives Passport Modules 3, 4 & 5

UNION LEARNING REPRESENTATIVES (ULR) PASSPORT COURSES PAGE Union Learning Representatives: ULR Passport Module 1 8

LIFELONG LEARNING CO-ORDINATOR PASSPORT COURSES PAGE Introduction to the Lifelong Learning Co-ordinator Role: 9

Lifelong Learning Co-ordinator Passport Module 1 Advanced Representation, Campaigning and Negotiating Skills: 10

Lifelong Learning Co-ordinator Optional Passport Module

BRANCH OFFICER TRAINING PAGE General information 11 - 12

WORKPLACE REPRESENTATIVE & BRANCH DEVELOPMENT COURSES PAGE

Finance Training Pathway 13 On-Line Branch Accounting (OLBA) 13 Objective Based Budgeting for Branches 13 Social Media 14 Thompsons Briefings: Employment Law & Dealing with Personal Injury Claims 15

2NATIONAL WORKPLACE REPRESENTATIVE EDUCATION PROGRAMME: PAGE 2018 EMPLOYMENT LAW COURSES General Information and national course fees 16 Contracts, Redundancy and TUPE 17 Race and Sex Discrimination Law 17 Disability Discrimination Law 18 Unfair Dismissals and Employment Tribunals 19 Maternity and Parental Rights 19 Branch Welfare Officer Training 20

FREE COURSES FOR MEMBERS PAGE General information 21 Build your Confidence 22 Develop your Job Skills 23 Interview Skills 24 Manage your Stress 24 Mental Health Awareness and Wellbeing 25 Introduction to Mindfulness 26 Pre-Retirement Workshop 27 Computers for Absolute Beginners 28 Staying Safe Online – E-Safety 29 Microsoft Word Beginners and Improvers 30 Microsoft Excel Beginners and Improvers 31 Microsoft PowerPoint Beginners and Improvers 32 Deaf Awareness and British Sign Language 33 Introduction to Social Media 34

OTHER COURSES/INFORMATION PAGE Courses for your Branch 35 Open University and UNISON Partnership 35 Lifelong Learning in UNISON: Developing our members – building our branches 35 Discounts, bursaries and grants 36 - 38

HOW TO APPLY FOR A REGIONAL COURSE PAGE General information – How to Apply for a Regional Course 39 Course fees and cancellation guidelines 40 Course information 41 - 42 Course Application Form 43 Proportionality and Fair Representation Form 44 Application to the Employer for Time Off 45

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STEWARDS PASSPORT COURSES

The Organising Steward (5 days) (Stewards Passport Modules 1 & 2)

Course fee to branches: £75

Aimed at: New stewards AND experienced stewards who require ERA accreditation.

Location Course dates Course code

Closing date for applications

Lincoln - Grafton House 29,30,31 Jan & 6,7 Feb 2018 02180001 1 Jan 2018Derby – Univ of Derby 5,6 & 19,20,21 March 2018 02180002 5 Feb 2018Nottingham - Regional Office 1,2,3 & 14,15 May 2018 02180003 3 April 2018Leicester – Leicester College 16,17,18 & 24,25 May 2018 02180004 18 April 2018Northampton – Northants County Branch Training Suite

4,5,6 & 14,15 June 2018 02180005 7 May 2018

Lincoln – Grafton House 2,3,4,5,6 July 2018 02180006 4 June 2018Derby – Univ of Derby 11,12,13 & 24,25 September 02180011 14 Aug 2018Leicester – Leicester College 1,2,3 7 8,9 October 2018 02180013 5 Sept 2018Nottingham – Regional Office 12,13,14 & 22,23 November 02180014 15 Oct 2018Nottingham – Regional Office 26,27,28,29,30 November 02180015 29 Oct 2018Northampton – Northants County Branch Training Suite

10,11,12,13,14 December 2018 02180016 12 Nov 2018

Lincoln – Grafton House 23,24,25 Jan & 7,8 Feb 2019 02190004 22 Dec 2018Derby – Univ of Derby 4,5,6 & 21,22 March 2019 02190005 4 Feb 2019Leicester – Leicester College 29,30 April & 1,9,10 May 2019 02190006 1 April 2018Nottingham - Regional Office 13,14,15 & 23,2 May 2019 02190007 15 April 2018Northampton – Northants County Branch Training Suite

3,4,5 & 20,21 June 2019 02190008 6 May 2018

Lincoln – Grafton House 1,2,3,4,5 July 2019 02190009 3 June 2019

This is a fundamental first course – attendance is essential for all new stewards.The course aims to develop your skills, knowledge and confidence to enable you to carry out the role of a steward in UNISON. The course covers the following:

Certification as being competent to accompany members at disciplinary and grievance hearings in order to comply with the Employment Relations Act 1999.

Working with members to tackle issues in the workplace. Working with members in resolving individual problems. Handling grievance, disciplinary and similar types of cases as the representative of

UNISON members within your workplace, including knowing where and when to seek advice and guidance, and understand how procedures work in practice.

4 Online UNISON Stewards Course

(Stewards Passport Modules 1 & 2)


Aimed at: Any new steward who is unable to attend The Organising Steward course in person and who requires ERA accreditation.

Location Course dates Course code Closing date for applications

Wherever you have internet access

15 January – 9 March 2018 National Course apply direct on link below

2 weeks prior to the start date23 April – 15 June 2018

10 September – 2 November 2018

The course will use the same high quality materials, the same tutor support, the same networking with other UNISON stewards but will be accessed online from the workplace or local/employer learning centre. It will be delivered in a friendly, encouraging way by expert tutors.

More information can be found on UNISON’s national website:https://learning.unison.org.uk/activist-training/workplace-representatives/online/

Delegates will access the course via the Internet and work interactively on tasks with tutors and other course participants. Course activities contain discussion forums, quizzes and workplace activities.

Course length - consists of approximately 4-5 hours per week over a 7 week period.

On completion of the online course Stewards will be awarded ERA accreditation and be able to represent members.

Employers must allow stewards time off to sit at a computer to complete the course as well as time off to complete any research that is required as part of the course.

The course is delivered using a web-based learning environment and delegates can access course materials whenever is convenient. The course includes some group work, where delegates will be expected to work with fellow learners. At the start of the course, the tutor will set a timetable outlining the activities that need to be completed and a date when they should be submitted.

To register for a place on this course please use the link below

https://www.tuceducation.org.uk/findacourse/courses/63

(From this link click on course directory, then sort by online courses then find the ‘UNISON Stewards course’. This needs to be actioned no later than 2 weeks before the start date of the course).

Any queries please contact UNISON Learning & Organising Services, UNISON Centre, 130 Euston Road, London NW1 2AY, or email [email protected] or ring 0207 121 5383.

mailto:[email protected]

https://www.tuceducation.org.uk/findacourse/courses/63

https://learning.unison.org.uk/activist-training/workplace-representatives/online/

6 ERA Re-accreditation


Aimed at: ERA stewards who require re-accreditation.

Location Course Dates Course Code


Lincoln – Grafton House 13 September 2017 02170045 16 August 2017 Northampton 20 November 2017 02170046 20 October 2017Nottingham, Regional Office

25 January 2018 02180007 21 December 2017

Derby – Univ of Derby 20 March 2018 02180008 20 February 2018Leicester 12 June 2018 02180009 15 May 2018Lincoln – Grafton House 26 September 2018 02180010 29 August 2018Northampton 13 November 2018 02180012 16 October 2018 Nottingham, Regional Office

29 January 2019 02190001 21 December 2018

Derby – Univ of Derby 27 March 2019 02190002 27 February 2019Leicester 6 June 2019 02190003 9 May 2019

This course is aimed at UNISON’s more experienced workplace representatives and branch officers who are representing members.

After the introduction of the Employment Relations Act (ERA), UNISON launched a process for the accreditation, ERA certification and training of all stewards. This includes a commitment to provide regular training for UNISON representatives.

This course is part of that commitment, training our representatives to do their job on behalf of the union and keeping them up to date with any changes.

NOTE: If you are an ERA accredited steward, attendance on this course will count towards your ERA re-accreditation. Therefore, after the course your ERA re-accreditation date will be extended to reflect 5 years from the date of the course in line with NEC policy.

The following courses also count towards ERA accreditation:

ADVANCED REPRESENTATIO, CAMPAIGNING & NEGOTIATING SKILLS – page 6

CONTRACT REDUNDANCY & TUPE - page 17

DISABILITY DISCRIMIANTION LAW – page 18

UNFAIR DISMISSALS & EMPLOYMENT TRIBUNALS – page 19

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Advanced Representation, Campaigning and Negotiating Skills (5 days) (Stewards / Health & Safety Representatives Passports Modules 3, 4 & 5)


Aimed at: Stewards, Health & Safety Representatives or Lifelong Learning Co-ordinatorswith some representation experience who have completed The Organising Steward or Organising for Safety Modules 1 and 2 at least 6 months ago.




Lincoln – Grafton House 19,20,21,22,23 February 02180017 22 January 2018Leicester – Leicester College 9,10,11,16,17 April 2018 02180018 12 March 2018Nottingham – Regional Office 18,19,20,21,22 June 2018 02180019 21 May 2018Northampton – Northants County Branch Training Suite

17,18,19,20,21 September 2018

02180020 20 August 2018

Derby – Univ of Derby 5,6,7,8,9 November 2018 02180023 8 October 2018Lincoln – Grafton House 18,19,20,21,22 Feb 2019 02190010 21 January 2019Leicester – Leicester College 8,9,10,11,12 April 2019 02190011 11 March 2019Nottingham – Regional Office 10,11,12,13,14 June 2019 02190012 13 May 2019

This course is in 3 distinct parts as outlined below and aims to ensure you have all the skills you need to become an experienced representative:

1. Representing a member who is facing disciplinary action. This is based around a case study and video and shows an entire disciplinary hearing from start to finish.

2. Negotiating with your line manager or senior management on behalf of your members.

3. Campaigning – which at this time of cuts and redundancies will be an important aspect of your role. This might include being involved in a large regional campaign, or organising a campaign in your workplace.

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HEALTH & SAFETY REPRESENTATIVES PASSPORT COURSES

Organising for Safety (5 days) Health and Safety Representatives Passport Modules 1 & 2


Aimed at: New and potential health & safety representatives, stewards and branch officers who want to find out more about the union’s role in health & safety, and existing health & safety representatives who need refresher training.



Nottingham – Regional Office 7,8,9 & 12,13 March 2018 02180026 7 Feb 2018Northampton – Northants County Branch Training Suite

9,10,11,12,13 July 2018 02180027 11 June 2018

Leicester – Leicester College 15,16,17,18,19 October 02180028 17 Sept 2018Lincoln – Grafton House 15,16 & 19,20,21 November 02180029 18 Oct 2018Derby – Univ of Derby 3,4,5,6,7 December 2018 02180030 5 Nov 2018Nottingham – Regional Office 13,14,15 & 18,19 March 2019 02190013 13 Feb 2019Northampton – Northants County Branch Training Suite

8,9,10,11,12 July 2019 02190014 10 June 2019

This course aims to develop your skills, knowledge and confidence to enable you to carry out your role as health & safety representative.

Advanced Representation, Campaigning and Negotiating Skills (5 days) (Stewards / Health & Safety Representatives Passports Modules 3, 4 & 5)





For course details see page 6

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UNION LEARNING REPRESENTATIVES (ULR) PASSPORT COURSES

Union Learning Representatives (3 days) Stage 1: Union Learning Representatives (ULR) Passport Module 1


Aimed at: New Union Learning Representatives (ULRs).



Northampton 8,15,22 March 2018 02180021 8 February 2018Nottingham – Regional Office 7,14,21 June 2018 02180022 10 May 2018Leicester 4,11,18 October 2018 02180024 6 September 2018Nottingham – Regional Office 3,10,17 December 2018 02180025 5 November 2018

This 3-day course enables ULRs to:

develop their skills and knowledge about the role.

talk to members and identify their learning needs.

understand how the role fits within the branch structure.

relate UNISON’s priorities to the role of the ULR.

influence the learning and development strategy within the workplace.

feel confident working with employers to plan learning opportunities within the workplace.

build contacts and information networks, collect and record information.

find out about government policies and programmes for lifelong learning.

Union Learning Representatives Stage 2

Stage 2 training for the Union Learning Representatives will be scheduled for delivery in 2019.

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LIFELONG LEARNING CO-ORDINATOR PASSPORT COURSES

The role of branch lifelong learning co-ordinator is still fairly new to UNISON. However, it is one that is vital in supporting learning for our members. They are the link between the Union Learning Representatives (ULRs) and the branch committee and give support to the ULRs.

Please visit the regional website at www.unison.org.uk/east-midlands for more information or contact Gavin McCann, Regional Learning and Development Organiser on 0115 8475446.

Introduction to the Lifelong Learning Co-ordinator Role (2 days) Lifelong Learning Co-ordinator Passport Module 1


Aimed at: Existing Lifelong Learning Co-ordinators and ULRs who are interested in taking on the role.



Crowne Plaza Hotel, Nottingham 21, 22 April 2018 02180038 26 March 2018

This module seeks to give new Lifelong Learning Co-ordinators an understanding of the role and ideas on how to get started. It concentrates on working with the branch and helping to establish the branch as a ‘learning branch’.

Undertaking a new role can be daunting but there are some simple steps to take along the way and it is important that you do not feel as if you are doing this alone. If you are a lifelong learning co-ordinator working on your own, this course will help you to find support and get started. Others will be part of a larger branch education team and the course will look at ways to share tasks and work as a team. The course will look at:

what exactly the lifelong learning co-ordinator’s role is. how to work with the branch to ensure they are fully involved in what the co-ordinator and

ULRs are doing. Working with the branch recruiting and supporting ULRs. working with providers to develop courses for members.

Lifelong Learning Co-ordinator Lifelong Learning Co-ordinator Passport Module 2

Module 2 training for Lifelong Learning Co-ordinators will be scheduled for delivery in 2019.

11 Advanced Representation, Campaigning and Negotiating Skills (5 days)

Lifelong Learning Co-ordinator: Optional Passport Module





Lincoln – Grafton House 19,20,21,22,23 February 02180017 22 January 2018Leicester – Leicester College 9,10,11,16,17 April 2018 02180018 12 March 2018Nottingham – Regional Office 18,19,20,21,22 June 2018 02180019 21 May 2018Northampton – Northants County Branch Training Suite

17,18,19,20,21 September 2018

02180020 20 August 2018

Derby 5,6,7,8,9 November 2018 02180023 8 October 2018

This course is in 3 distinct parts as outlined below and aims to ensure you have all the skills you need to become an experienced representative:

1. Representing a member who is facing disciplinary action. This is based around a case study and video and shows an entire disciplinary hearing from start to finish.

2. Negotiating with your line manager or senior management on behalf of your members.

3. Campaigning – which at this time of cuts and redundancies will be an important aspect of your role. This might include being involved in a large regional campaign, or organising a campaign in your workplace.


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BRANCH OFFICER TRAINING

BRANCH OFFICER TRAINING – 21 & 22 APRIL 2018 Venue: Crowne Plaza Hotel, Wollaton Street, Nottingham

Course fee to branches: £0Closing Date – 26 March 2018

FREE - NON RESIDENTIAL WEEKEND (2 DAYS)

Branches are responsible for payment of accommodation and travel costs

Course Course Code

Chairs 02180034Communication Officers(Day 1 - Organising within the branch)(Day 2 – Beyond the Basics)

02180036

Equalities Co-ordinators, Self Organised Group (SOG) Officers & Equality Representatives

02180035

Labour Link Officers 02180037Lifelong Learning Co-ordinators 02180038Secretaries 02180032Treasurers 02180033

Branch Officer Training for 2018 has moved to new dates. Make sure that new officer appointments at your branch 2018 AGMs are aware of this training opportunity and book by the closing date – 26 March.

The above Branch Officer Training courses are open not only to current and new officers but also to those interested in standing for these positions who wish to gain an insight into what is involved in the role. Please visit the regional website at www.unison.org.uk/east-midlands for more information on individual course modules. Course sessions will take place at The Crowne Plaza Hotel, Nottingham starting on Saturday from 9.30 am to 5.00 pm and on Sunday from 9.30 am to 3.30 pm. For those delegates attending, UNISON will provide refreshments, lunch and an evening meal (at 7.00 pm) on Saturday; and for Sunday, morning refreshments and lunch. As this is a non-residential event NO ACCOMMODATION will be booked by the Region. However delegates who require overnight accommodation should contact their branch to discuss the provision/booking of accommodation. The Hotel offers accommodation (bed & breakfast) which can be booked (subject to availability) by branches at a discounted rate to UNISON delegates of £79 per person. To make a booking please contact the Hotel direct on 0115 9369988. Course places will be allocated and confirmed to applicants after the closing date. On-site crèche facilities will not be provided, however a homecare allowance is available.

Full details of UNISON’s regional cancellation/non-attendance charges can be found in the section at the end of this booklet. Please visit the regional website for a specific application form for this event or contact the Learning & Member Development Team on 0115 8475457.

http://www.unison.org.uk/east-midlands

13 Branch Welfare Officer Training (2 days)

Course fee to branches: National Course Fees Apply

Residential £125 per delegate, per dayNon-Residential £75 per delegate, per day

Accommodation, travel and care costs plus a £5 per day out-of-pocket allowance will be paid from national level

Region Course Venue Course Dates Course Code


East Midlands UNISON Centre, 130 Euston RoadLondon NW1 2AY

9 & 10 May 2018 National course - apply directly

28 March 2018

This training will help Branch Welfare Officers to:

Understand their role and the confidentiality it involves Understand the UNISON Welfare charity structure and staff responsibilities Understand the application process and areas where welfare can assist members Develop influencing and communication skills and practice active listening Promote ‘There for You’ to managers and as a part of recruitment drives Practice presentation skills and to handle problems in an assertive manner Understand the importance of promoting and publicising 'There for You'

BRANCH OFFICER TRAINING - YOUNG MEMBERS




To beadvised

To be advertised at a later date

For more information contact Cathy Symes – [email protected]

02180039


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WORKPLACE REPRESENTATIVE AND

BRANCH DEVELOPMENT COURSES

FINANCE TRAINING PATHWAY

Aimed at: Branch Officers, any member of the Branch Executive Committee and / or branch budget holders.

The following financial training and education is available:

E Learning – this will introduce you to a fictional UNISON Branch and take you through the various aspects of using On-Line Branch Accounting (OLBA) during a financial year. This is available to you within OLBA so you will need your OLBA user ID and password.

OLBA Release notes – these appear as a manual taking you through the various stages of OLBA – it is useful to print these in advance and use them for reference as you start inputting. These can be found within OLBA - once you have logged on press the help button on the right hand side on the home screen.

Help within OLBA – this can be found within OLBA once you have logged on. There are various documents here that can help you use and organise OLBA to meet your branch needs. Importantly, it gives you information on how to deal with the year end.

If you need guidance on how to access any of the above go to the regional website at www.org.uk/east-midlands - click on Education and Training – Resources to find theTreasurers Starter Pack.

Any queries please contact [email protected].

UNISON On-Line Branch Accounting Course (OLBA)

This course is run by Head Office and courses will be advertised as they are released. This course is very similar to the E Learning and is based on actually using OLBA. Therefore, if you do not have access to OLBA please do not apply for the course.

Objective Based Budgeting for Branches (Short Workshop)

This course aims to gain an understanding of the Joint Assessment of Branch Organisation process (JABO) and Objective Based Budgeting, an understanding of committed costs, participation, building local capacity and optional costs, plus the financial information that forms part of JABO.

Branches wishing to run this workshop should discuss arrangements with their Regional Organiser.

http://www.org.uk/east-midlands

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Digital Communications

An Introduction to Social Media (1 day) Course fee to branches: £15

Aimed at: Branch activists and members



To be Advised 15 February 2018 02180055 18 January 2018To be Advised 22 March 2018 02180056 22 February 2018To be Advised 16 August 2018 02180057 19 July 2018

Have you ever heard the following from your colleagues, ‘Facebook’, ‘Tweeting’, ‘hashtags’, ‘posting online’, but you’re not quite sure what they are talking about or how it fits in with UNISON? Then this is the course for you.

The course is primarily aimed at UNISON activists who are interested in gaining an overview of what social media is and how branches, and UNISON as a whole, can use social media to further its aims. This course will help participants to:

• develop knowledge about what social media is and how it is used • gain a greater understanding about some of the most popular social media sites around and

how they are utilised - most noticeably Facebook and Twitter • understand the positive and negative aspects of using social media • get hands on experience of using social media sites

Beyond the Basics - Social Media & UNISON Digital (1 day) Course fee to branches: £15




Crowne Plaza Hotel, Nottingham

22 April 2018 (Sunday) as part of BOT weekend

02180058 26 March 2018

This course is primarily aimed at UNISON activists that have some experience in using social media sites and want to know more about how to apply it to local campaigns and the day to day running of your branch. It is also aimed at those that wish to know more about how to engage

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with our membership using digital tools, including online surveys, producing short videos and communicating directly with members online. This course will help participants to:

• enhance their knowledge of the various applications of social media within UNISON• understand how social media and digital tools can be used in a campaign• learn about additional digital tools that can help your branch improve its communication• gain hands on experience in using digital tools and/or social media sites that you feel are most

applicable to your branch, e.g. video editing, producing an online survey or paying for Facebook adverts. • work with branch colleagues on a digital action plan.

Employment Law Update (AM) Dealing with Personal Injury Claims (PM)


Aimed at: Branch officers and workplace representatives.



Nottingham - Regional Office 17 April 2018 02180031 20 March 2018Nottingham - Regional Office 4 April 2019 02190015 7 March 2019

Delivered by Thompsons Solicitors who have worked closely with UNISON since the union was formed in 1993. These sessions are an ideal opportunity for branch officers and workplace reps, who need to keep abreast of the ever changing nature of workplace regulations, to be briefed on a current legal topic by a solicitor specialising in workplace and industrial relations issues. These are intended to be interactive sessions with an opportunity to ask questions. The day will incorporate the following briefings:

Employment Law Update: Employment law is constantly changing either by the passing of new legislation or through case law. This briefing will cover the main changes to the laws affecting trade unions and industrial relations.

Dealing with Personal Injury Claims: Millions of pounds in compensation are won for UNISON members by Thompsons Solicitors every year. This briefing will be led by a specialist solicitor working on personal injury claims and will cover the law on personal injury, the requirements for winning a case, time limits, a review of some common compensation claims and why some types of cases, e.g. stress cases, are very difficult to win.

NOTE: Attending the Employment Law update (AM session) will count towards your ERA re-accreditation. Therefore, after the course your ERA re-accreditation date will be extended to reflect 5 years from the date of the course in line with NEC policy.

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NATIONAL WORKPLACE REPRESENTATIVE EDUCATION PROGRAMME:

2018 EMPLOYMENT LAW COURSES

To apply for a national course please complete a national course application form available from www.unison.org.uk/content/uploads/2015/11/Employment-Law-Courses-2016-2.pdf

Return forms to: UNISON Learning & Organising Services, UNISON Centre, 130 Euston Road, London NW1 2AY

Queries should be referred via email to [email protected] or by direct contact on Tel 0207 121 5383 / Fax 0207 121 5758.

NOTE – Allocation of places will be in line with UNISON principles of proportionality and fair representation as soon as possible after the closing date and not on a first come first served basis. In the event of courses being oversubscribed, selections will be made on the basis of achieving fair representation and proportionality, as set out in UNISON rules, and will also ensure a fair spread of participants from regions and sectors where appropriate.

Where places on courses are cancelled without good cause, charges will be levied as follows: Places cancelled within two weeks of the start of the course = 50% of the course cost.Places cancelled within one week of the start of the course = 100% of the course cost.

COURSE FEES - Fees will be taken via direct deduction from branch funds on the 15th day of the month after the event

Residential £125 per delegate, per dayNon-Residential £75 per delegate, per day

COURSE TIMES - Day 1: start - 11.00 am – Days: 2 & 3 - 9.30 am (finish 4.30 pm each day)

http://www.unison.org.uk/content/uploads/2015/11/Employment-Law-Courses-2016-2.pdf

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Contracts, Redundancy and TUPE (3 days)

Course fee to branches: see page 16



Location Course Dates Course Code Closing date for applications

UNISON Centre130 Euston RoadLondonNW1 2AY

15, 16 & 17 May 2018 National course - apply directly

3 April 2018

20, 21 & 22 November 2018

National course - apply directly

9 October 2018

This course will help activists develop their understanding of contracts of employment and members’ potential rights on redundancy. It will enable them to recognise relevant legal issues when dealing with casework, campaigning and negotiating. It also covers unilateral variation of contract; unfair dismissal in the context of changing contracts; redundancy & TUPE. It does not cover unfair dismissal in the areas of capability and misconduct.

Race and Sex Discrimination Law (3 days)



Location Course Dates

Course Code Closing date for applications

UNISON Centre, 130 Euston Road, London NW1 2AY

10, 11 & 12 July 2018


29 May 2018

This course will help activists to recognise direct and indirect race and sex discrimination when dealing with casework in the branch. It will help them understand the questions to ask when interviewing members with potential cases.

It will give them an overview of legislation and time-limits; understanding the questionnaire procedure; introduction to law on sexual harassment. It does not cover how to run a tribunal case. The course does not cover the law on pregnancy and maternity/paternity which is covered in the Maternity and Parental Rights course.

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Disability Discrimination Law (2 days)





UNISON Centre, 130 Euston RoadLondon NW1 2AY


10 April 2018

13 & 14 November 2018 National course - apply directly

2 October 2018

This course will help activists when representing members and negotiating with employers around disability issues by increasing their understanding of how often disability discrimination law applies and how it can be used to put pressure on employers to take positive steps.

The course covers identifying potential cases of disability discrimination in the workplace, who disability discrimination law applies to, how to interview members with a potential case, the extent of the employer’s duties to make reasonable adjustments, the relationship between sickness issues (e.g. back injury, depression) and disability discrimination, and recognising time-limits.

It does NOT cover how to run a tribunal case.

20 Unfair Dismissals and Employment Tribunals (3 days)





UNISON Centre, 130 Euston RoadLondon, NW1 2AY

25, 26 & 27 September 2018


12 August 2018

This course will help representatives to use the law to underpin negotiations with employers on dismissal issues in internal disciplinary hearings, and to develop analytical skills useful in all areas of their work.

While activists are not expected to represent at tribunal cases, understanding the importance of time limits and evidence gathering at an early stage will ensure sound groundwork should a case eventually go to tribunal. This course covers the law of unfair dismissal, who can claim unfair dismissal and what makes a dismissal unfair, especially in the context of misconduct. It follows a misconduct dismissal through every stage of preparation for a tribunal case, finishing with a mock video of the tribunal hearing.

This course does NOT cover unfair dismissal in the context of redundancy, contract variation or TUPE as that is the subject of the Contracts, Redundancy and TUPE course.

Maternity and Parental Rights (1 day)




UNISON Centre, 130 Euston Road, London NW1 2AY

22 May 2018 National course – apply directly

10 April 2018

19 October 2018 National course – apply directly

7 September 2018

This course is for UNISON activists who need to advise members on maternity and parental rights or who are looking to improve on statutory rights through negotiation.

It will help you understand the complex law relating to maternity rights and give you an opportunity to compare negotiated contractual agreements with statutory rights to identify opportunities for seeking improvements.

21 Branch Welfare Officer Training (2 days)



Region Course Venue Course Dates Course Code


East Midlands UNISON Centre, 130 Euston RoadLondon NW1 2AY


28 March 2018

This training will help Branch Welfare Officers to:

Understand their role and the confidentiality it involves

Understand the UNISON Welfare charity structure and staff responsibilities

Understand the application process and areas where welfare can assist members

Develop influencing and communication skills and practice active listening

Promote ‘There for You’ to managers and as a part of recruitment drives

Practice presentation skills and to handle problems in an assertive manner

Understand the importance of promoting and publicising 'There for You'

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FREE COURSES FOR UNISON MEMBERS

Important information for UNISON members when applying forUNISON's Personal Development Courses

The courses described in this section are FREE to all UNISON members.

To apply for a place on any of these courses members will need to complete the Course Application Form and Proportionality and Fair Representation Form which are available towards the back of this programme.

Application forms for courses advertised in the FREE Courses for UNISON Members section only require a branch signature if members wish to claim travel/subsistence expenses which are payable by the branch.

Members who wish to make a claim, should they be successful in gaining a place, should place a tick in the claim expenses box on the application form. UNISON will forward your forms to your branch for consideration.

Please note places are not allocated to courses until after the closing date when all applicants will be contacted with further details.

If the course falls on a day when members would normally be at work, they will need to seek permission from their line manager to attend. Time off is not guaranteed, it is at the discretion of the employer. Alternatively members would need to seek approval of annual leave to attend. If you are not sure who your Branch Secretary/Education Co-ordinator is, or how to contact them, you can find out by contacting UNISONdirect on 0800 0857 857. N.B. We will be unable to process your application unless it is fully completed – this includes a completed Application Form together with the Proportionality and Fair Representation Form (P&FR).

These courses are also advertised in our separate Free Courses for Members Programme and online at https://eastmidlands.unison.org.uk/education-training/

https://eastmidlands.unison.org.uk/education-training/

23

Build Your Confidence (2 days)


Aimed at: Any UNISON member who would like to feel more confident and is open to men and women.


Leicester 6 and 7 March 2018 02180040 6 February 2018Northampton 16 and 17 April 2018 02180041 19 March 2018

This will help you to: explore issues around confidence

investigate your idea of a confident person

recognise body language and unspoken communication

raise awareness of different behaviour types and hidden agendas

deal with criticism constructively

look to the future

By the end of the course, you will be able to: better understand your own confidence

identify and use confident behaviour

communicate assertively

plan the changes required to behave in a more confident manner

identify development opportunities

“Enjoyed the course and found it very interactive. The two days went very quickly!”

24 Develop your Job Skills (1 day)


Aimed at: UNISON members who would like to develop their skills in looking for new job opportunities in their existing workplace or outside.



Lincoln 4 June 2018 02180045 7 May 2018Leicester 6 November 2018 02180046 9 October 2018

During the workshop, you will have an opportunity to look at the following:

What are my skills?

Marketing techniques

Gathering information for a CV

Completing application forms

Hunting for jobs

Career action planning

By the end of the workshop, you will have:

an understanding of the concept of ‘self marketing’

identified goals related to job search activities

developed and practised skills and techniques – CV preparation and completing application forms

the ability to identify future career opportunities and set personal goals in pursuit of these

“A very informative and well presented course which left me in a far more positive frame of mind for the future”

25 Interview Skills (2 days)


Aimed at: Any UNISON member who wants to improve their practical skills in applying for work and producing materials that are current and relevant in today’s job market.


Northampton 21 and 22 May 2018 02180049 23 April 2018Lincoln 3 and 4 September 2018 02180050 6 August 2018

This course, developed by UNISON and the WEA (Workers’ Educational Association) includes as part of the two days, individual activities, group discussions, the use of IT and mock interviews. It is also a useful follow-on course for anyone who has previously attended the UNISON ‘Develop Your Job Skills’ workshop. By the end of the course, you will be able to:

present yourself appropriately at an interview answer the interviewer’s questions appropriately reflect on your performance in an interview develop an interview specific plan with SMART actions

“The course delivered more than I was expecting!”

Manage your Stress (1 day) Course fee to branches: £0

Aimed at: Any UNISON member who wants to know more about stress and how to develop positive coping strategies. This 1 day workshop has been developed by UNISON and RE: Training.



Loughborough 5 July 2018 02180047 7 June 2018NottinghamRegional Centre

5 October 2018 02180048 7 September 2018

The workshop will consider both the causes of stress and positive approaches to managing stress. By the end of the workshop you will be able to:

define what is meant by the term ‘stress’ identify how and when stress affects you explore the implications of stress for yourself and your colleagues select from different strategies that are used to manage stressful situations create your own, basic, stress management plan

“Brilliant course! Tutor very approachable and informative”

Mental Health Awareness and Wellbeing (1 day)

26


Aimed at: Any UNISON member who wants to increase their awareness of mental health issues to explore how to improve their own wellbeing. This new, one-day workshop has been developed by UNISON and RE:Training.

Location Course Dates Course Code Closing date for

applicationsNorthampton 16 March 2018 02180042 16 February 2018Derby 25 May 2018 02180043 27 April 2018Leicester 6 July 2018 02180044 8 June 2018

By the end of the workshop you will be able to:

define what is meant by the term ‘mental health’

explore the stigma of mental health

identify the signs, symptoms and risk factors of common depressive and anxiety disorders

identify how to support someone in a crisis situation

know where to go to for further support

identify ways to develop your own positive wellbeing

“ Really enjoyed the course. Great tutor!”

Introduction to Mindfulness (Half Day)

27


Aimed at: Any UNISON member seeking an introduction to basic mind/body tools and techniques which, when applied, can enhance levels of wellbeing and benefit individuals in the workplace and in their wider lives.


Derby 10 April 2018 02180053 13 March 2018NottinghamRegional Centre

17 October 2018 02180054 19 September 2018

Course times: 9.30 am – 2.30 pm (refreshments and lunch included)

This workshop is a taster or basic introduction to Mindfulness, suitable for members at all levels from all departments and specialities. The course contains the core messages and concepts of Mindfulness along with opportunity to try out two of the foundation practices and share some fun ‘myth-busters’. There are handouts for attendees to support the key messages of the session. The course is certificated.

No previous experience of Mindfulness is necessary, but it is unlikely to be beneficial to those with an established Mindfulness practice.

Aims - by the end of the session participants will:

gain understanding of Mindfulness core concepts and how it can be applied to personal wellbeing

experience basic core practices, which can be tried outside of the session

gain understanding of the benefits and limitations of mindfulness as a method for supporting personal and professional wellbeing

bust some myths about Mindfulness

gain some insight into why Mindfulness is offered to staff as part of organisational Emotional Wellbeing support programmes

have some fun and something different to think about

Pre-Retirement Planning Workshop (1 Day)

28


Aimed at: Any UNISON member aged 55 years or over or within 3-5 years of retirement to gain maximum benefit.



Nottingham Regional Office

16 July 2018 02180051 18 June 2018

Nottingham Regional Office

1 November 2018 02180052 4 October 2018

Topics will include:

State Pensions Benefits National Insurance Contributions Finance - Income Tax Legal Advice Health

Facilitated by retired persons, who will provide first-hand experience and help, and expert Speakers within their field who will also be available during the breaks to answer personal queries, including those associated with Tax issues.

Hand-outs and resource packs will be provided to take away for reference.

The workshop will be friendly and informal with a strong emphasis on the psychological approach to retirement.

Delivered by Nottingham and District Pre-Retirement Council

Nottingham and District Pre-Retirement Council Offices144a High Road, Beeston, Nottingham NG9 2LNWebsite: http://ndprc.org.uk/ Phone: 0115 922 3824

http://ndprc.org.uk/

29 Free IT Courses


Computers for Absolute Beginners Essential Computer Skills (1 Day)

Aimed at: Members and activists - for anyone with no previous computer experience or for those wishing to become more confident using digital technology.


Nottingham 21 March 2018 02180059 21 February 2018

Gain the skills and knowledge required to operate your computer and perform common tasks. This basic computer skills course will allow you to gain an understanding of the most popular technologies used at home and in the workplace, boost your IT confidence and become computer literate.

This fun, hands-on course, aims to take away the fear of using the computer and the basic programmes that come with it.

This course will allow you to become familiar with computers and Microsoft Windows while learning basic computer, mouse and keyboard skills in a supportive environment.

You will:

Start up and shut down your computer safely. Navigate applications. Perform basic functions of file management. Use a web browser to perform basic searches and navigation. Perform basic functions in a word processor and/or spreadsheet. Manage print settings and print documents. Understand file formats, .PDF .DOC .MP3

Delivery StyleThis course is delivered as tutor led computer based training using Windows PCs. Please note that teaching instructions and materials for this course are specifically tailored to Windows PC users.

30 Staying Safe Online – E-safety (1 Day)

Aimed at: Members and activists - anyone who wants to keep safe online when searching and exploring the internet.


Nottingham 18 April 2018 02180060 21 March 2018

Almost every task now involves using a range of computer skills. This course will enable you to develop your digital skills to be effective and safe in today’s society.

BUT: You should be familiar with the basic functions of a computer operating system such as navigating the environment using a mouse and keyboard, starting applications, copying and pasting objects, formatting text, creating folders, opening files, saving files, familiarity with accessing the Internet and use of common web browsers. If you do not have these skills you should attend the “Essential Computer Skills course” before attempting this course.

Course includes:

Protect yourself online - e-safety Make effective internet searches Email safely Use online forms Having an understanding of virus protection Having an understanding of social media Having an understanding of “cloud” computing and online storage

Delivery StyleThis course is delivered as tutor led computer based training using Windows PCs. Please note that teaching instructions and materials for this course are specifically tailored to Windows PC users.

31 Microsoft Word Beginners (1 Day)

Aimed at: New users of Microsoft Word and those with very basic knowledge


Leicester 9 May 2018 02180061 11 April 2018

This one-day course assumes little or no knowledge of Word but you should be familiar with basic functions of a computer such as using a mouse and keyboard, starting applications, opening and saving files and familiarity with accessing the internet.

Upon completion of this Microsoft Word training course you should be able to:

work the basic features of Word create a new document select and work with text in a document format paragraphs create and modify tabs and tables Insert clip art and pictures print a document

Microsoft Word Improvers (1 Day) Aimed at: Existing users of Microsoft Word who wish to enhance their skills to create and

modify complex documents and use tools to customise their documents


Leicester 16 May 2018 02180062 18 April 2018

This one-day course follows on from Microsoft Word Beginners. You MUST already be able to create, open, save and format a document as well as select, cut and paste text.

Upon completion of this training course you should be able to:

use a range of formatting techniques work with a pdf document work with Word options and document properties learn how to work with section breaks use templates insert headers and footers have a basic understanding of mail merge use table features to improve the layout and format of tables

.

32 Microsoft Excel Beginners (1 Day)

Aimed at: New users of Microsoft Excel and those with very basic knowledge


Leicester 6 June 2018 02180063 9 May 2018

This one-day course assumes little or no knowledge of Excel but you should be familiar with basic functions of a computer such as using a mouse and keyboard, starting applications, opening and saving files and familiarity with accessing the internet

Upon completion of this Microsoft Excel training course you should be able to:

create and work with a new workbook understand and work with ranges in a worksheet create and work with formulas and functions to perform calculations copy and paste data understand and use formula cell referencing format rows and cells in a worksheet create and insert charts

Microsoft Excel Improvers (1 day)

Aimed at: Existing users of Microsoft Excel who wish to produce more effective and productive workbooks


Leicester 20 June 2018 02180064 23 May 2018 This one-day course follows on from Microsoft Excel Beginners. You MUST already be able to create, open, save and format a workbook as well as use formulas and the SUM function.


move the contents of cells and ranges within workbooks create more complex formulas and functions apply a range of number formatting techniques to worksheet cells use a range of find and replace techniques filter data in a table sort data in a list in a worksheet

Microsoft PowerPoint Beginners (1 day)

33Aimed at: New users of Microsoft PowerPoint and those with very basic knowledge


Leicester 3 October 2018 02180065 5 September 2018

This one-day course assumes little or no knowledge of the software but you should be familiar with basic functions of a computer such as using a mouse and keyboard, starting applications, opening and saving files and familiarity with accessing the internet.

Upon completion of this Microsoft PowerPoint training course you should be able to:

identify the basic features and functions of PowerPoint develop a PowerPoint presentation add graphics to your presentation add tables to your presentation add charts to your presentation prepare to deliver your presentation

Microsoft PowerPoint Improvers (1 Day)

Aimed at: Existing users of Microsoft PowerPoint who wish to produce more effective and productive presentations


Leicester 7 November 2018 02180066 10 October 2018

This one-day course follows on from Microsoft PowerPoint Beginners. You MUST already be able to create, open, save and print a presentation as well as select, cut and paste text into slides.


create and work effectively with themes view and modify slide masters create and use custom templates create animations in a presentation edit inserted images set up a presentation for the required presentation mode save and share your presentations in other formats

34 Deaf Awareness and British Sign Language (1 day)


Aimed at: Any UNISON member that has regular contact with members of the public and/or a deaf or hard of hearing colleagues and who would like to ensure a more accessible working environment and service.


Lincoln April 2018 02180067 26 March 2018Northampton October 2018 02180068 3 September 2018

This new course has been developed between UNISON and the Nottinghamshire Deaf Society and will be delivered by experienced deaf British Sign Language (BSL) users, accompanied by interpreters.

During the workshop, you will:

consider the challenges deaf people face every day; both as service users and employees

consider the confidence issues raised around approaching a deaf service user, customer or colleague, and how that can lead to dissatisfaction and awkwardness on both sides

have an opportunity to learn and practise some British Sign Language (BSL), which will include the manual alphabet, greetings, numbers and time and family signs. You will be given time to practise your new-found skills, and to ask the trainer for any vocabulary specific to your job.

By the end of the course, you will be able to:

demonstrate an increased knowledge and understanding of effective communication with deaf and hard of hearing people

increase your confidence in communicating with deaf or hard of hearing colleagues and service users

provide a more accessible service to the deaf community provide a better working environment for deaf employees

“One of the best courses I have ever attended”

35

ALSO AVAILABLE FOR MEMBERSPlease contact branch for authorisation of attendance due to costs

Digital Communications

An Introduction to Social Media (1 day) Course fee to branches: £15




To be Advised 15 February 2018 02180055 18 January 2018To be Advised 22 March 2018 02180056 22 February 2018To be Advised 16 August 2018 02180057 19 July 2018

Have you ever heard the following from your colleagues, ‘Facebook’, ‘Tweeting’, ‘hashtags’, ‘posting online’, but you’re not quite sure what they are talking about or how it fits in with UNISON? Then this is the course for you.

The course is primarily aimed at UNISON activists but is also open to members who are interested in gaining an overview of what social media is and how branches, and UNISON as a whole, can use social media to further its aims. This course will help participants to:

• develop knowledge about what social media is and how it is used. • gain a greater understanding about some of the most popular social media sites around and

how they are utilised- most noticeably Facebook and Twitter. • understand the positive and negative aspects of using social media. • get hands on experience of using social media sites.

36

COURSES FOR YOUR BRANCH

Please visit the regional website at https://eastmidlands.unison.org.uk/education-training/ for details of short activities/workshops that normally your Regional Organiser can deliver specifically for your branch (unless otherwise stated).

These are arranged in your workplace but in the first instance contact your Branch EducationCo-ordinator to express your interest.

OPEN UNIVERSITY AND UNISON PARTNERSHIP

“UNISON in conjunction with the Open University have helped me to regain my confidence in learning new skills.”

Please visit the regional website at https://eastmidlands.unison.org.uk/education-training/ for details on the UNISON/Open University (OU) Partnership.

LIFELONG LEARNING IN UNISONDEVELOPING OUR MEMBERS – BUILDING OUR BRANCHES

UNISON aims to give all members the opportunity to get back into learning, to develop new skills, build self confidence and experience the enjoyment of learning and the satisfaction of achievement.

Lifelong learning in UNISON is also about helping branches to recruit new members, retain existing ones and develop new workplace representatives. Many members who have completed ‘Return to Learn’ and ‘Women’s Lives’ courses go on to become involved in the union, particularly as Union Learning Representatives (ULRs).

Please visit the regional website at https://eastmidlands.unison.org.uk/education-training/ for a link to more information.

37

DISCOUNTS, BURSARIES AND GRANTS

Do you know about the financial support that UNISON can offer for learning?

UNISON wants to help members realise their potential. Because we know how difficult it is to afford training and development at the moment, we offer financial support to members taking part in general non-vocational education, or in vocational education relevant to work in the public services, as well as learning discounts from a number of providers. We also offer grants to members studying on Trade Union and Labour Movement or Women’s Studies courses.

Anyone applying must be a member of UNISON for at least 4 weeks prior to their application, have no arrears of subscriptions and continue to pay all membership subscriptions throughout the time that he/she is in education and training supported by the award.

TRADE UNION AND LABOUR MOVEMENT OR WOMEN’S STUDIES GRANTS

UNISON offers various bursaries for members studying on trade union, labour studies or women’s studies courses. The deadline for receipt of applications is 28 July. Decisions on grants are deferred until then so that all applications can be considered at the same time against the criteria. Applications after that date will be considered if funding is still available.

For all grants listed above a copy of your course registration and proof that you are personally meeting the cost of fees will be required before a grant can be paid. This can be a receipt for fees or a copy of your student loan agreement.

Certificate or Diploma Grants for members on Trade Union and Labour Movement or Women’s Studies courses: UNISON offers a limited number of grants towards course costs for members studying part-time. Course costs include fees, residential sessions, travel, and course books. The number and size of grants offered depends on course costs and the number of applicants. It is usually around £300. Preference is given to members who do not already have a qualification at this level or above. We are keen also to hear from members who are actively involved in their branch.

BA Grants for members on Trade Union and Labour Movement or Women’s Studies courses: A limited number of grants of up to £500 towards course costs for members studying part-time. Course costs include fees, residential sessions, travel, and course books. Members may want to apply to the government backed Student Loan Company for a fee loan. The number and size of grants offered depends on course costs and the number of applicants.

Masters Degree Grants for union representatives studying the Trade Union and Labour Movement or Women’s Studies A limited number of grants of up to one-third of annual fees are available to union reps studying part-time at their own expense. The size and number of grants will depend on fees charged and the number of applications received. These grants are aimed at UNISON activists wishing to further their trade union experience and consideration will be given to the level of activity of applicants within their branch.

38LEARNING DISCOUNTS FOR UNISON MEMBERS

NATIONAL EXTENSION COLLEGE (NEC)

The NEC offers educational opportunities and second-chance learning to people for whom attending regular classes at a school or college would not be possible.

The NEC provides distance learning courses which include GCSEs and A Levels, and qualifications in childcare and early years. They offer a 10% discount to UNISON members on all its courses. Simply quote your UNISON membership number when enrolling. The full list of courses can be found at www.nec.ac.uk.

FREE Taster Opportunity!To help you find out whether distance learning courses are for you, the NEC is offering UNISON members a free taster course, Children’s Growth and Development. To find out more, go to: https://www.nec.ac.uk/content/nec-working-partnership-unison

THE OPEN COLLEGE OF THE ARTS£50 off distance learning OCA tutored arts and craft courses for UNISON members and their families. See their website at www.oca-uk.com.

BIRKBECK, UNIVERSITY OF LONDON10% off all accredited Birkbeck courses (certificates, undergraduate and postgraduate) as long as you study at a level that is not lower than or equivalent to any existing qualifications you may hold. Birkbeck is London’s part-time evening university.

CILEX TUTORIAL COLLEGEUNISON members are entitled to a 5% discount on law courses (excluding legal practice course or postgraduate Diploma in Law). See their website: www.cilexlawschool.ac.uk

UNIVERSITY OF WOLVERHAMPTON 10% discount on course fees for trade union members. For more information contact Beverley Fielding, Centre for Lifelong Learning Administrator; [email protected].

OPEN UNIVERSITY AWARDSOpen University (OU) Awards are available to UNISON members undertaking 30 and 60 point OU courses up to and including undergraduate level at their own expense. No awards are available for masters degree study or above. Awards are made as follows:

60 point courses £200 30 point courses £100

Awarded on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted. Available on 1 January and 1 September each year.


http://www.wlv.ac.uk/

http://www.cilexlawschool.ac.uk/

http://www.bbk.ac.uk/mybirkbeck/finance/fees-information/union-discount

39UNISON LEARNING GRANTS

These grants of approximately £100 are intended to help members who are undertaking study at their own expense, up to and including undergraduate level, on the following types of courses:

Trade Union and Labour Studies where an applicant has not received a bursary. Non-vocational education up to and including undergraduate level, e.g. GCSEs,

A Levels, Access courses, leisure/recreational courses. Vocational education relevant to public service work up to and including undergraduate

level.

UNISON Learning grant applications are dealt with on a first come, first served basis until funds are exhausted and are available on 1 January and 1 September each year. Learning grants are not available for Masters Degree study or above.

Application criteria for bursaries, grants and awards and an application form are set out in more detail on the UNISON website at:

https://www.unison.org.uk/get-involved/learning-development/financial-support/

For more information contact the Bursaries Administrator on 020 7121 5116 or email [email protected]

IMPORTANT

To ensure you receive up-to-date information on new courses and developments please check that your personal details are correct.

Go to the UNISON website https://www.unison.org.uk/my-unison/

To access your details you will need your membership number.

If you are a first time user you will also need to register your account with a password.

Alternatively contact the UNISON Learning & Member Development Team on 0115 8475457 or email [email protected]

40

HOW TO APPLY FOR A REGIONAL COURSE

Course application procedureSelect the course you wish to attend and complete two forms - an Application Form and a Proportionality and Fair Representation Form. These forms can be found at the back of this programme or obtained via your branch, the Learning & Member Development Team at the UNISON Regional Centre, or via the regional website at www.unison.org.uk/east-midlands/.

Courses offered within this programme are free to members. Any course fees shown (mainly for activist training) and travel/subsistence expenses are paid for by your branch. You will therefore need to seek branch approval before you can attend. Completed application forms should be given to your Branch Education Co-ordinator or Branch Secretary to sign.

NOTE - Application forms for courses advertised as ‘FREE’ in the ‘Free Courses for UNISON Members’ section only require a branch signature if members wish to claim travel/subsistence expenses which are payable by the branch. Members who wish to make a claim if their application is successful should tick the ‘I wish to claim travel/subsistence expenses box’ on the application form. The Learning & Member Development Team will then forward their form to the branch for consideration.

Information on the Proportionality and Fair Representation Form is used when courses are over-subscribed, in order to allocate places to ensure fair treatment. This form does not have to go through your Branch but can be sent directly to the Learning & Member Development Team. All information provided will be treated in confidence.

Application Forms and Proportionality and Fair Representation Forms should be sent to the following address before the advertised closing date for receipt of applications:

Learning & Member Development TeamUNISON Regional Centre, Vivian Avenue, Nottingham, NG5 1AF

or via email – [email protected]

You can request to receive, via an email, acknowledgement of receipt of your application form. This acknowledgement is NOT a guarantee of a place. Places are allocated after the course closing date and not on a first come, first served basis. Where courses are over-subscribed, places are allocated to eligible applicants via a selection process using the information given on the Fair Representation and Proportionality form. All applicants will be contacted after the closing date. To summarise, the application procedure is as follows:

Complete the Application Form. Give your Application Form to your Branch Secretary/Education Co-ordinator to sign. Complete the Proportionality and Fair Representation Form. Forward both Forms to the Learning & Member Development Team.

Confirmation of a place on a course All course applicants will be contacted after the closing date and advised whether or not they have a place. Successful delegates will be provided with details of the course arrangements, e.g. venue, start times and other relevant information. If you require time off to attend the training you are advised to seek this provisionally, pending confirmation of a place. We may cancel a course if there is insufficient interest to make it viable but where possible we will offer alternatives.

If you are unsure about your application or the course status please contact the Learning & Member Development Team on 0115 8475457or email [email protected]

41

COURSE FEES AND CANCELLATION GUIDELINES

Fees payable by branchesThe course fees shown alongside the relevant course are payable by branches. Unless otherwise advertised, branches will be invoiced for all course fees/cancellation charges after the course event (please do not send any payment with application forms). Branches are responsible for payment of delegates’ travel and subsistence claims.

As this programme is prepared in advance, course costs may vary from the cost advertised in previous years.

Additional regional courses which may be arranged, but not shown in this programme, are subject to the same terms and conditions, including costs.

Payment of Course Fees by branchesWhere course fees are applicable, branches will be contacted after the event with details.

Appeals against Course Fee Charges (Invoices)IMPORTANT: Appeals against invoice payments should be directed in the first instance to the Regional Education Organiser.

Courses held at more than one venueWhere it becomes necessary to use more than one venue, delegates will be allocated a place and advised which venue to attend. If a delegate chooses to attend the other venue, which has occurred in the past, the branch will be charged the full cost of the first venue and / or any other related charges the venue provider passes on to UNISON plus the normal course fees.

CancellationsIf, for any reason, delegates cannot attend a course for which they have applied, it is essential they contact the Learning & Member Development Team, who will seek to fill the place from waiting lists. The current charging policy in respect of cancellations is as follows:

Charges Regional Courses

Cancellations after Closing Date but prior to start of the course and replacement delegate can be found

NO CHARGE

Cancellation after Closing Datebut prior to start of the course but NO replacement delegate can be found

OrFailure to attend the course

COURSE FEE CHARGEDor actual costs, whichever is the greater

Additional cancellation costs may be charged to branches if external provider costs are levied on the region at a later date.

Cancellation of dependant or other care facilities

FACILITATION COSTS CHARGED

42

COURSE INFORMATION

What are the courses like?UNISON courses are run in a friendly and supportive atmosphere where everybody’s views and experiences are valued and listened to. Most of the time you will be working with other people in small groups. You will not be lectured at or ‘put on the spot’.

Course confirmation and course timesPlaces are not allocated until after the closing date – successful applicants will be issued with course joining details (approx 2 weeks prior the course) which includes venue details and course programme - course times may vary but usually take place from 9.30 am to 4.30 pm each day. In the absence of confirmation applicants should contact the LMD Team for information.

What if I have responsibilities at home?UNISON provides a homecare allowance if you incur costs whilst you are attending a training event, which are additional to those you would normally have to pay for the care of dependants. For example if you are a part-time worker and you attend training on your day off then you are entitled to claim a care allowance.

The scale of the allowance changes from time to time and current rates can be obtained from the Learning & Member Development Team. You are required to provide a receipt. Facilities for members with specific needsWe seek to ensure that the venues we book, materials provided, etc. meet the needs of our members who have identified a specific need on their course application form. Due to the wide varieties of facilitation available it is important that you let us know as soon as possible about your individual requirements.

Catering and dietary requestsWhere catering is provided at courses UNISON will endeavour to make provision for specific dietary requests. However, it should be noted that where training takes place at the UNISON Regional Centre, provision is limited to that available from local caterers and hot food is not available.

Delegates with specific dietary needs are requested to specify these in detail on the application form. When course places are confirmed, delegates who have indicated a need will be asked to provide further information prior to the start of the course. Please note that menus/meals cannot be changed on the day of the course.

Time offStewards, health & safety representatives and union learning representatives have a legal right to paid time off to attend relevant training. If this applies you will need to ensure that you have arranged time off with your employer in order to attend a course. You should ensure that you allow sufficient time to make these arrangements.

There is a form available for you to use (page 45). You can find this at the back of this programme, on our website or you can contact the Learning and Member Development Team for a copy. Please give the completed form to your Branch Education Co-ordinator or Branch Secretary for branch records, keeping a copy for your own information. YOU DO NOT NEED TO RETURN THIS TO THE REGIONAL OFFICE. If you have any problems then speak to your Branch Education Co-ordinator or Branch Secretary.

43Part time workersIf you attend a course for which paid time off is available and the course hours exceed those you normally work, you are entitled to receive pay or time off in lieu for those hours from your employer. Please ask for help if you experience problems in exercising these rights.

ExpensesTravel and subsistence costs for all courses are the responsibility of your Branch. You should check with your Branch Education Co-ordinator or Branch Secretary to find out how to claim these.

Materials for some coursesFor some courses you will be asked to bring along materials or resources, e.g. copies of grievance or disciplinary procedures, your Steward bag etc. You may need to contact your Branch Education Co-ordinator or Branch Secretary for assistance in obtaining these items.

VenuesUnless otherwise stated, the majority of the regional courses are NON-RESIDENTIAL.Delegates requiring overnight accommodation should seek approval for this from their branch prior to making any arrangements, as the cost of this will need to be met from branch funds. Branches are responsible for the booking of accommodation and payment of any costs in this respect.

Branch Employed StaffGenerally the courses offered in this programme are for members, workplace representatives and officers of UNISON and are not offered to staff employed by the branch. However, it has been agreed that branch employed staff can attend workplace representatives courses as long as their branches pay the relevant course fees and it is clear that they are branch employed (e.g. on the course register). Branch employed staff should not be attending training aimed at NEC employed staff only.

Passport CoursesTo enable workplace representatives to gain the relevant skills and knowledge to carry out their roles with confidence, UNISON provides training in key areas/modules which are collectively known as Passports and includes those for Stewards, Health and Safety Representatives, Union Learning Representatives and Lifelong Learning Co-ordinators. Stewards and Health, Safety Representatives and Union Learning Representatives (ULRs) are encouraged to complete their Passport and attend modules within 18 months to 2 years from appointment.

Stewards Modules 1 and 2 are combined into a 5-day course entitled ‘Organising Steward’. Once completed, a Steward will become accredited as an Employment Relations Act (ERA) Steward and can represent members in their workplace. Stewards are not entitled to represent members until they have been accredited. Alternatively there is an ‘Online Stewards Course’ which consists of approximately 30 hours, approximately 5-7 hours per week.

For Health and Safety Representatives the first course is ‘Organising for Safety’, againa 5-day course, and for ULRs there is also a 3-day Stage 1 course.

44

REGIONAL COURSE APPLICATION FORM

Name Male Female Identify in some other way

Home address Branch

Position in branch

Membership number

Daytime phone number Mobile phone number

Email address – this will be used to contact you regarding the course including joining details

Emergency contact name and tel. number

Course title

Course code Course date(s)

Course venue / location (town)

Dietary requirements – please be specific

Facilitation requirements – please give details (e.g. disabled parking, large print, braille etc)

I wish to claim care allowance for a child/adult dependant for additional costs incurred I wish to claim travel/subsistence expenses from my branch if I am successful in gaining a place and note that this can only be claimed if my application is authorised by the branch

Signature of applicant ……………………...... Date …………....

To be completed by your Branch Education Co-ordinator / Branch SecretaryI confirm the applicant has branch approval to attend the above course.

Signed …………………………… Print Name............................................... Date………….....

*Branch Education Co-ordinator / Branch Secretary (*please circle as appropriate)On behalf of the branch I accept the terms and conditions of this booking and agree to abide by ALL charges inc non-attendance/ cancellation fees as advertised in the Education Programme or specific course advertisement.Once fully complete and countersigned, please return this form to the UNISON Learning & Member Development Team, UNISON Regional Centre, Vivian Avenue, Nottingham NG5 1AFPlease note, your application may be declined if you do not return a completed Proportionality and Fair Representation form in addition to this application form.

Please tick if you wish to receive an acknowledgement of receipt via emailN.B. The information you provide and the record of your attendance of UNISON education courses may be shared within UNISON to ensure that membership and branch records are accurate and up to date. Course information may also be used for statistical purposes.

45

PROPORTIONALITY AND FAIR REPRESENTATION FORM

NAMEMEMBERSHIP NOBRANCHCOURSE TITLE/DATESHave you previously applied for a course and been rejected? If “YES” please state reasons: Course Cancelled Course Oversubscribed Other – please state

Please tick the following boxes that apply

1. Which of UNISON’s service groups are you in?Local Government Health Care Higher EducationEnergy Police & Justice Community Water, Environment and Transport

2. Are you? Female Male Identify in some other way

3. How would you describe your ethnic origin?4 Bangladeshi 3 Chinese 5 Indian 6 Pakistani 15 Asian UK 8 Asian Other 0 Black African 1 Black Caribbean14 Black UK 2 Black Other 12 White UK 11 Irish 13 White Other Other mixed heritage

4. UNISON has self-organised groups for women, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender, black, and disabled members. In which, if any, of the groups do you participate? Women members Black members Disabled members Lesbian, gay, bisexual & transgender members

5. What is your age group? 16 - 26 27 - 39 40 - 49 50+

6. Which UNISON subscription band are you in?Band Yearly income £ Band Yearly income £ A Up to 2,000 B 2,001 to 5,000 C 5,001 to 8,000 D 8,001 to 11,000 E 11,001 to 14,000 F 14,001 to 17,000 G 17,001 to 20,000 H 20,001 to 25,000 I 25,001 to 30,000 J 30,001 to 35,000 K 35,000 +

7. How many hours per week do you work? Less than 16 16-29 30-34 35 or more

8. In which occupational group is your job? Managers Technical Professional Personal and caring services Administrators Clerical and secretarial Other non-manual Other manual Other occupation (please specify) ……………………………………….

UNISON is committed to achieving fair representation and proportionality in all its structures. The Education and Training Committee asks each course applicant to fill in this form to assist us in achieving this aim. This form is used to select, monitor & evaluate participation in regional education/ branch training opportunities. Thank you for yourco-operation. Please note, you do not have to disclose this information to your Branch. You may prefer to photocopy this form and send it direct to: UNISON, Learning & Member Development Team, Vivian Avenue, Nottingham NG5 1AF.

APPLICATION TO THE EMPLOYER FOR TIME OFF

46This form is for use by UNISON who wish to apply for time off, with pay, from employers to attend training courses. Once completed it should be retained by the employee or Branch as authorisation to be away from the workplace. It is important that the member or the line manager notifies HR of the dates absent from work.

PART A – This section to be completed by the UNISON memberFull Name of UNISON member

UNISON Membership No

Home Address(include Postcode)

Contact Details

Employer’s Name

Workplace/Section

UNISON Course Title

Course Dates

Venue

Details of time off requested(ie no of days/hours) Workplace Representative SignatureDate

PART B – This section to be completed by the Line ManagerName of Line Manager

Job Title of Line Manager

Employer name

YES(tick box as appropriate)

I confirm that the above named UNISON workplace representative can be released with pay to attend the training as detailed above

NO(tick box as appropriate)

I am unable to grant release for the following reason:

Line Manager’s Signature

47Date

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