UCU is a member organisation. To be effective we need people to help us build a stronger union.
Union support to a member who is facing difficulty in the workplace is a key benefit of union membership, and HWUCU, like all other trade unions, relies heavily on the voluntary support and commitment of local members to deliver this key benefit. Providing informed advice and support to branch colleagues facing workplace difficulties is essential and greatly appreciated.
UCU Training Opportunity: Representing Members – an introduction to Casework, 11th April 2014
This course is taking place at Edinburgh University on the 11th of April, and is open to any member interested in assisting with casework for HWUCU. The course will enable you to:
- understand the UCU legal support scheme and Recourse (formerly CUSN)
- understand the role of the rep
- understand how to communicate effectively with members seeking advice and represent them in meetings with management
- identify sources of support and information for members seeking representation
- understand the importance of using individual cases for collective organisation and describe the circumstances and ways in which this can be done
- develop a collaborative approach with the member and manage their expectations
- maintain confidentiality and handle conflicts of interest
- assert your own rights and take care of your own wellbeing when handling personal cases
- increase your understanding of procedures and processes related to individual representation
- outline systems for dealing with individual casework in your branch.
Please consider whether you could take on the role of a HWUCU caseworker?
Speak informally to myself (C.M.Ure@hw.ac.uk), or any branch committee member, to discuss how you can support this vital aspect of local union activity.
Thank you.