Dear Member
I just wanted to drop you a quick line to let you know that I am stepping down from my position as Branch Secretary of Westminster UNISON as I shall be moving to Australia in February.
Many people do not realise that our union is made up of volunteers who work for the City Council and its contractors, for example my substantive post is in the Community Protection department of the City Council. In the 3 years I have been seconded for UNISON duties, our branch representatives have worked hard to make sure your voice is heard in the workplace and have helped maintain our position as the biggest and most influential union in the City Council and its contractors.
Without an active membership we would never have achieved so many local victories, such as UNISON recognition in Carlisle Cleaning Services - an employer responsible for running Westminster's public conveniences who were initially hostile to trade unions, an increase of £4 million into basic pay for WCC staff and the withdrawal of Big Brother proposals to fingerprint staff.
At a time when the City Council has announced its plans to cut hundreds of jobs and make savings of £30 million, it has never been more important that people join Westminster UNISON and fight to protect our jobs and conditions together. Unions act as a check and balance on employers and we campaign for equality and justice in the workplace for all our members.
Being active in a union can be challenging at times but it is also incredibly rewarding, because UNISON representatives have real influence over their workplaces. Our union is only ever as strong as our membership, and is dependant on people 'doing their bit' for the union.
Please consider becoming a UNISON representative, and in return the union will provide you with training and time off from your job to carry out union duties. Click here for more information.
If you are not able to become a representative in your workplace, please help by asking someone who is not a member to join us today! Click here for more information.
I have really enjoyed working for Westminster UNISON and am very proud of all our achievements. I am sure that the branch will be served well by the new Branch Secretary (ELECT), Stephen Higgins and with your help, I am confident that the union will grow even bigger and stronger in 2009.
Thank you for all your support.
Best wishes.
Phil Vaughan
