I LOVE BEING A REP AND HELPING PEOPLE - USDAW REPS GO THE EXTRA MILE DURING THE THE PANDEMIC
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THE BIMONTHLY MAGAZINE FOR USDAW ACTIVISTS – JULY/AUGUST 2021 USDAW REPS GO THE EXTRA MILE DURING THE THE PANDEMIC I LOVE BEING A REP AND HELPING PEOPLE RETAIL | DELIVERY | WAREHOUSE | MANUFACTURING |
USDAW ORGANISING 2021 AWARDS Usdaw is looking for its best activists to nominate themselves or a colleague for this year’s prestigious Organising Awards. The Usdaw Organising Awards recognises and celebrates the hard work of Usdaw reps nationwide and is a unique event in the trade union movement. Any Usdaw member can make a nomination in each category. Nominations must be received at your local Usdaw office by Friday 24 September. There are nine award categories: n Individual organising n Equalities rep n Individual recruitment n Most promising new activist n Campaigns n Outstanding achievement n Health and safety rep n Team recruitment and n Union learning rep organising For more information about the different categories and to download the nomination form visit the Usdaw website or contact your area organiser. www.usdaw.org.uk/nominate
Welcome | NETWORK
WORKPLACE SAFETY
Network is published bimonthly and
distributed to Usdaw activists.
IS OUR PRIORITY
O
n 19 July the Government
PUBLISHED BY: ended mandatory safety
Usdaw Head Office measures in England
Voyager Building, 2 Furness Quay, despite concerns from medical
Salford Quays, professionals, workers and
M50 3XZ
employers.
t: 0161 224 2804
As a union the health and
e: network@usdaw.org.uk
w: usdaw.org.uk safety of our members is of
upmost importance therefore,
HEAD OF MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS we will continue to work with
Mike Glover employers to ensure that
EDITOR
they promote existing safety
Saiqa Khushnood measures in stores as well as
asking the public to wear face
REPORTER
coverings and to observe social
Sarah Sherborne
distancing.
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Also high on our agenda
Paula Barke is our Freedom From Fear
OTHER CONTRIBUTORS campaign. From 24 August
Tom Foster, Chris Morris, Ann Murphy,
2021, a ground-breaking
Debra Blow, Ruth Cross, Adam Kaczmarek, new law will come into effect
Jakob Rolls, Doug Russell, David Williams in Scotland which makes it Retail Trades Conference,
a specific offence to abuse, Young Workers’ Weekend, a
PHOTOGRAPHERS
threaten or assault a retail Respect Shopworkers Week
Della Batchelor; Lee Boswell, Peter Lawson; SWNS.
worker. The UK Government and the Organising Awards.
Via Getty Images:
has rejected a similar law However, because of the times
georgeclerk; FG Trade; Chris Hepburn; Darren
for the rest of the country we live in they are all subject to
Rogers; FatCamera; industryview; Geber86; asiseeit;
digitalskillet; kang053; TigercatLPG;
therefore we will continue our Government guidance.
ClarkandCompany; SteveDebenport campaign by raising awareness The last few months has also
and garnering further cross- seen Usdaw finalise its move
ADVERTISING
party support. to its new headquarters in
Century One Publishing
Alban Row, 27-31 Verulam Road,
Although many recruitment Salford Quays. Although many
St Albans, AL3 4DG activities were halted or looked of us have fond memories of
very different during the height the old building in Fallowfield,
ACCOUNT MANAGER
of the pandemic, as restrictions in recent years it had become
Paul Heitzman
ease, the union will once again apparent that we had outgrown
t: 01727 739 196
e: paul@centuryonepublishing.uk look towards recruitment. the building and we needed a
It is vital that we maintain space that could accommodate
©Usdaw 2021 reproduction in whole
wor part by any means without written our membership levels so that the union for decades to come.
permissions of the publishers we can continue to be a strong I look forward to hosting our
is strictly forbidden. and influential voice for our reps there for meetings and
members. conferences.
This publisher accepts no responsibility
for errors, omissions or the
As the country returns
consequences thereof. to some kind of normality
Usdaw General Secretary
Usdaw has started planning
a number of activities for the
coming months including
Summer School1, a virtual
July/August 2021 3
usdaw.org.uk/homestudy Usdaw’s Home Study course consists of several online modules which members can complete in their own time at home. It’s not about tests or lots of writing - but aims to help members find out more about Usdaw. home study course Unit 1: Unity is Strength Unit 2: Democracy in Usdaw Unit 3: Collective Bargaining Unit 4: Pensions Unit 5: Vulnerable Workers Get started now at: usdaw.org.uk/homestudy usdaw.org.uk/homestudy
Contents | NETWORK
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
COVID UPDATE
12 | A n update on how to manage risk in the workplace
as Government ends mandatory safety measures.
CONFERENCES CATCH-UP
18 | Usdaw delegates attend Labour Women's
Conference and STUC Youth Conference.
LEARNING AT WORK
20 | L
ifelong learning is for reps too! Check out the new
courses and how Tesco Goole tackles upskilling.
20
STAND DOWN
24 | R
efresh your recruiting knowledge and look
towards an increased membership.
RECRUITMENT & ORGANISING
28 | T
his handy reps guide answers FAQs about
breaks, holidays, working part-time and more.
DYING OF EMBARRASSMENT
32 | Prostate cancer is now the most commonly
diagnosed cancer. Network looks at the facts.
26
BLACK AND LOW PAID
36 | Usdaw's black members share their experiences of
living and working on low pay.
LAW CHANGE FOR LORRY DRIVERS
44 | W
hat you need to know about the temporary rule
changes and the concerns around it.
REGULARS
03 FOREWORD
34
06 NEWS
14 CAMPAIGN NEWS
26 ACTIVIST-IN-DEPTH
34 PENSIONS
38 HEALTH & SAFETY
42 MEMBER OFFERS
36 45 PUBLICATIONS UPDATE
July/August 2021 5
NETWORK | News
IN THE NEWS
Don’t forget to email the editor your view network@usdaw.org.uk
SAFETY MEASURES KEPT BY STORES
U
sdaw has welcomed
early indications
that retailers are
keeping important safety
measures to help reduce
the spread of Covid-19,
despite the Government
lifting the rules in
England on 19 July.
The union is calling
for the whole retail
industry to follow these
leads, to avoid customer
confusion, and for the
shopping public to abide
by the rules and respect
shopworkers.
Usdaw general
secretary Paddy Lillis said: assurances for staff or face unacceptable levels “Wearing a face covering
“It is deeply disappointing employers, it is a real of abuse and making in crowded public areas
that the Government mess. Protection for Covid safety measures like shops is not merely
has ploughed on with retail workers through guidance only, instead of a personal choice, it is
ending mandatory safety customers wearing face having the force of law an important measure
measures within shops on coverings and maintaining behind them, could put to help protect workers
19 July, despite concerns social distancing should more shopworkers at risk. who have no option but
from shopworkers. be backed up by the law We need more retailers to interact with large
“Usdaw successfully and not left to individual to keep their covid safety numbers of people as
lobbied for the mandatory choice. measures in place to avoid a part of their job. We
wearing of face coverings “Without clear direction confusion and send a clear are asking the public
in shops in Scotland and from the Government, we message to shoppers. to show their support
Wales and urges retailers continue to ask employers “The Government for shopworkers by
to promote face coverings, to think about their duty of should not be weakening continuing to wear face
hand hygiene and social care to staff and promote safety measures in shops coverings when they shop.
distancing in their stores existing safety measures at the same time as “These key workers
in England. Therefore, to the shopping public. opening up other venues. must be valued, respected
we welcome the early We also ask customers to There is no reason why and protected.”
responses from the retail show their support and requirements to wear face
industry and we hope all respect for shopworkers coverings and maintain
stores will continue to put by continuing to wear face social distancing in busy @UsdawUnion
staff and customer safety coverings, observe hand public areas like shops
first. hygiene and maintain cannot continue and it UsdawUnion
“The Government’s social distancing. should be backed up by
UsdawUnion
guidance provides no “Retail staff already the law.
6 July/August 2021
News | NETWORK
STAY COOL AS TEMPERATURES RISE
PROTECTION FROM THE HOT WEATHER NEEDED
Usdaw is calling for a legal maximum uncomfortably high temperatures. to 24°C. As the temperature rises
workplace temperature to protect “Outdoor workers need sun above this zone, heat exhaustion
workers’ health and safety. and heat protection, some sort of starts. People start to suffer loss of
In July the Met Office issued a new shade if possible, suitable clothing, concentration, there are increases
amber weather warning for extreme sunscreen of factor 30 or above, in accidents and loss of productivity.
heat. Extreme temperatures, both water to prevent dehydration and Symptoms include irritability,
very hot and very cold, are a familiar frequent breaks. Indoor workers dizziness, headaches, nausea and
problem for workers. While there need cool drinks, more frequent fainting.
is a legally enforceable minimum breaks, relaxed dress code, along Usdaw produces a helpful advice
workplace temperature, there is with opportunities to remove and leaflet on this issue - Keep Your Cool
not a corresponding maximum replace face coverings. Tackling Heat Stress at Work.
enforceable temperature. “Usdaw wants to see a legal Usdaw is promoting a TUC
Usdaw general secretary Paddy maximum working temperature petition calling for a maximum
Lillis said: “As temperatures peak introduced of 30°C – or 27°C for working temperature:
this week and in the midst of the those doing strenuous work – with www.megaphone.org.uk/
first ever amber weather warning employers obliged to adopt cooling petitions/we-need-a-maximum-
from the Met Office for extreme measures when the workplace working-temperature
heat, we want workers to know temperature hits 24°C. More information on this and
that employers are expected to “Experts say the comfort zone other health and safety mattters can
take reasonable steps to deal with is normally in the region of 16°C be found at www.usdaw.org.uk
WIN
£100 gift vouchers
at WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK/WIN
Sponsored by UsdawProtect. www.usdaw.org.uk/Usdawprotect Closing date 30th August 2021. Terms apply.
July/August 2021 7
NETWORK | News MEMBERS WELCOME MPS’ SUPPORT FIRE AND REHIRE STRIKE AT PHARMA FIRM Usdaw members at BCM Fareva, the 90 per cent of Usdaw members at been condemned by politicians from Nottingham based manufacturer the site after BCM Fareva proposed across the political divide. Even the of consumer pharma and beauty slashing members’ terms and current Prime Minister has said that products for leading brands conditions, including sick pay and it is ‘unacceptable as a negotiating including Boots, took part in a redundancy payment provisions, tactic’. So we very much welcome 24-hour stoppage on Thursday 22 while threatening to ‘fire and the messages of support from local July 2021. They received messages rehire’ staff if agreement cannot be Labour MPs and urge the company of support from local MPs Lilian reached on the proposed changes. to withdraw their threat to fire and Greenwood and Alex Norris. Daniel Adams - Usdaw National rehire.” The action was backed by almost Officer said: “Fire and rehire has www.usdaw.org.uk/news CO-OP TAKE THE LEAD IN SUPPORTING STAFF PAID LEAVE FOR PARENTS AFTER PREGNANCY LOSS The Co-operative Group is offering Usdaw National Officer John and make special leave provisions paid leave and time off for medical Gorle said: “Losing a baby is very are welcome, but the Government appointments as part of measures distressing for both parents and we should ensure that paid leave to help staff suffering from a welcome the Co-op taking a lead in rights are available to all workers, pregnancy loss. The union is asking offering enhanced support for staff regardless of their employer. the Government to follow this going through this. We know that “We also need to see reform of welcome lead and extend support to conversations with an employer on Statutory Sick Pay, which many all working parents. such personal issues can be difficult mothers rely on when suffering a The new policy has been created and we’d urge our members to loss in pregnancy. We have long in partnership with the Miscarriage speak to the union, particularly their called for significant improvements Association and Usdaw. It supports workplace rep, to ensure they are in SSP, which plunges many workers both parents and includes flexible fully supported. into poverty. Low-paid workers paid leave, a guide for managers “In the case of a still birth should be helped to take the to help offer support, time off maternity leave and pay applies, necessary time-off by ensuring there for medical appointments and however there are no statutory is no loss of income.” emergency leave for workers if a rights for those who suffer a More Usdaw news stories can be member of their family suffers a miscarriage. So businesses like found at: pregnancy loss. the Co-op who do the right thing www.usdaw.org.uk/news 8 July/August 2021
News | NETWORK
CELEBRATING AMAZING ACTIVISTS
IN BRIEF
BRITISH RETAIL NOMINATE AN OUTSTANDING REP
CONSORTIUM
Recent figures from the
British Retail Consortium
show that one in 7 stores
is sitting empty across the
UK at the end of March
2021. Furthermore, with
around 530,000 retail
workers still on furlough
there are growing
concerns that there will be
more job losses and store Download a nomination form at:
closures in the coming www.usdaw.org.uk/nominate
months.
Nominations for Usdaw’s 2021 their families and the union during
SHOPPING CENTRES Organising Awards are taking place these unprecedented times.
Up to 70 out of 700 with the deadline for receipt of “Unfortunately due to the
shopping centres across nominations on Friday 24 September pandemic we had to cancel last year’s
the UK could be forced 2021. Organising Awards but I hope we
to close as the effects of There are nine different awards can hold this important event in the
the Covid-19 pandemic which will be presented at a special union’s calendar again in January
continue to manifest in the awards ceremony on Saturday 15 2022. Therefore, we are now seeking
retail sector. At least 30 January 2022. nominations that will recognise
shopping centres in the UK Any Usdaw member can make one outstanding achievement during 2020
are now at least half empty nomination in each category: and 2021. This event is unique in the
including five with more n Outstanding Achievement Award trade union movement and it helps to
than 80 per cent of their n Health and Safety Rep Award properly recognise the hard work put
shops vacant following n Individual Organising Award in by our army of reps nationwide.
months of lockdowns. n Individual Recruitment Award “There is always a very high
n The Campaigns Award standard of nominations recognising
GAP n Most Promising New Activist Award the work of our newest reps, the
Following a strategic n Team Recruitment and tireless work of our health and safety
review of its European Organising Award reps, members working hard on
business, Gap has n Union Learning Rep Award the equalities agenda and lifelong
confirmed it plans to n The Equalities Award learning and some exceptionally high
close all its 81 stores in All reps should have received a quality, innovative work in organising,
the UK and Ireland and go nomination form in July. However, you recruiting and campaigning across the
online-only. The company can request extra forms from your seven regions.
has seen a rapid uptake local Usdaw office or download from “So I would encourage every union
of internet shopping for the Usdaw website. rep to look around and think about
its clothes in the UK since The nomination forms need to be which category you could make a
the pandemic-enforced returned to your regional secretary by nomination for that recognises the
lockdowns. Friday 24 September 2021. work you and your colleagues do on
Usdaw general secretary Paddy Lillis behalf of Usdaw members.
JOHN LEWIS AND said: “I have always recognised Usdaw “The Organising Awards ceremony
WAITROSE has fantastic reps doing amazing will be in Manchester on Saturday 15
Plans to cut 1,000 jobs as things in their workplaces all over the January 2022.
part of a shake-up of store country. The pandemic has shone a “We are asking for your help
management follow the light on the key role our members play in making sure we have another
closure of eight John Lewis in the economy and our reps have exceptionally high-quality group of
shops earlier this year. selflessly battled to support members, nominations.”
July/August 2021 9
NETWORK | First Series Summer School
SUMMER SCHOOL RETURNS
Usdaw is encouraging reps to put themselves forward for this year’s Summer
School which focuses on helping them become more active and informed
A
s the country returns to some taken advantage of the union’s will be less than 18 years of age or
kind of normality, Usdaw has educational activities, particularly to members who have attended this
started planning its calendar of the Home Study Course, or who school on a previous occasion.
events. The first major event to be can demonstrate a degree of
held in person will see the return of commitment to the union. Costs
First Series Summer School. Members attending will join a The union will pay board and
This will take place on 5-10 small work group of approximately accommodation fees and members
September (these dates are subject 14 members, each with its own tutor. awarded a place will be entitled
to Government guidance). Everyone will be encouraged to to claim travelling fares and any
Summer School will take place participate fully in the activities. appropriate allowances.
at Wortley Hall, a stately home
nestled in Sheffield’s surrounding Aims How to apply for 2022
countryside. The basic aim of the school is to Each branch can nominate up to two
Although nominations have closed develop the ability to play an active members for each Summer School.
for this year’s Summer School and and informed part in increasing Successful nominees will be selected
successful candidates notified, we trade union organisation and by the national executive council
are encouraging you to think about involvement at the workplace and from the shortlists submitted by
applying for Summer School 2022. at the branch. This is achieved by each regional council. Please contact
helping members to: your branch secretary if you wish to
Who can apply? n Develop their understanding be nominated for 2022 or speak to
Usdaw’s First Series Summer School of union aims, objectives and your area organiser if you would like
has been designed for members policies. to know more.
who have already shown some n Develop their understanding
commitment to the union and are of the challenges facing trade This year’s event
keen to play a more active part in unions. Arrangements for this event will be
union affairs in the future. n Develop their self-confidence. confirmed in due course and will
Nominees need not be union n Improve their organising and follow the Government’s coronavirus
representatives but priority will communication skills. guidelines.
be given to nominations from Please note that consideration www.usdaw.org.uk/
those members who have already cannot be given to nominees who summerschool
Wortley Hall 2019BECOME A TESCO REP
AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE
U
nion rep elections will be In which case, you’re already doing Come Forward! Speak-up and
taking place across Tesco in the role unofficially, so why not get make a difference!
September/October of this the extra support that we could give Whether you are hourly paid,
year, and Usdaw, along with Tesco, you as a rep. Or maybe, you see or salaried, Usdaw/Sata is the
want to encourage members to things done wrong but aren’t sure recognised trade union for Tesco
stand for election/re-election. All how to challenge this – as a rep you staff.
Usdaw reps in stores and CFCs would receive expert training to help Tesco encourages membership of
(except health and safety reps and you resolve issues in the workplace. the union and positively supports
ULRs) will be up for election. members becoming union reps,
With the launch of the new Sata reps because they recognise the positive
Sata agreement, there will also be Sata reps from across the business impacts of reps in the workplace.
elections taking place for Sata reps have been in discussions with Usdaw/Sata will be there every
in all areas of the business. We’d Tesco to update and improve the step of the way, with expert training,
encourage all salaried members to recognition agreement covering support from your area organiser,
consider stepping up and taking on salaried staff in all areas of Tesco, and access to our legal, H&S,
a rep role. up to and including Work Level 3, pensions and Equalities experts, as
As well as new reps coming and the agreement was signed off in well as the union’s dedicated Tesco
forward, we hope that existing reps January. support team!
will stand again to carry on the great Existing Usdaw reps and members Look out for the election materials
work that you do supporting our who are team or line managers in September, but if you have any
members every day. now come under the updated Sata questions on either set of elections
agreement. Your experience of being in the meantime, contact your local
Usdaw reps a member/rep won’t change, but Usdaw office on 0800 030 80 30.
Usdaw already has lots of dedicated the new agreement gives the union
and talented reps across Tesco and salaried staff their own salaried
stores – nearly 4,000 in total. forum and much improved facilities Remember, you can make
We know that they find the role to consult, negotiate, communicate a real difference, and we
incredibly rewarding and hope that and engage with the business on encourage you to stand
existing reps will stand again to matters that are important to you.
for election.
continue the hard work they do on These elections are a great
behalf of members. opportunity for you to get involved ELECTION TIMETABLE
There are still stores, particularly and to contribute in making the Communication period:
in the convenience format, that don’t most of our agreement. Sata reps 6-19 September
have a rep, or where we need more will play a central role in the new Nomination period:
20 September – 3 October
reps – so please think about putting Salaried Forum, meeting senior
Ballot period:
your name forward. business leaders and representing
4 – 17 October
Maybe you are the person in store the views and interests of salaried
that everyone comes to for advice? colleagues across the business.
July/August 2021 11NETWORK | COVID-19 Update
REDUCTION OF SAFETY
AMID RISE IN INFECTIONS
Despite rising infections of the Delta variant, the Government ends mandatory
safety measures in England and puts the onus on employers to manage the risk
F
rom 19 July the Government businesses must still mitigate concerned that having to challenge
removed all legal restrictions the risk by reducing the number customers, without the back-up of
to manage Covid-19. Despite of people workers come into the law, could add to already rising
the lifting of legal restrictions, the contact with. Measures to help levels of abuse in stores during the
Government has clarified that reduce contact between people, pandemic.
all businesses should follow the ‘particularly between customers
principles set out in the working and workers’ should be considered, Other Mitigations
safely guidance. such as: The Government guidance outlines
www.gov.uk/guidance/working- n Reducing the number of people several other mitigations that
safely-during-covid-19 each person has contact with by could help to manage the risk in
using ‘fixed teams or partnering’ workplaces of Covid-19. Usdaw
Managing Risk after 19 July (so each person works with only a would expect employers to put
Employers must by law protect few others). these mitigations in place including
workers and others from risks to n Screens or barriers to separate the following measures:
their health and safety. This includes people from each other, or n Cleaning surfaces that people
risks from Covid-19. As such, the using back-to-back or side-to- touch regularly.
guidance from Government sets out side working, instead of face-to- n Advising customers and workers
several key priority actions. face (screens are only likely to to wash their hands or use hand
The first is to complete a health be beneficial if placed between sanitiser frequently.
and safety risk assessment that people who will come into close n Identifying poorly ventilated areas
includes the risk from Covid-19. proximity with each other). in the venue (such as changing
The working safely guidance clearly rooms in retail stores) and taking
states that the risk assessment must Face Coverings steps to improve air flow.
be done in consultation with unions From 19 July there is no longer a n Ensuring that staff and customers
or workers. This consultation should legal requirement for staff and who are unwell do not attend the
include: customers to wear face coverings workplace or venue.
n Risks arising from the work/ in retail or close contact services
workplace. settings. However, the Government Self Isolation
n Proposals to manage and/or still ‘expects and recommends that In July, the Government announced
control these risks. people (workers or customers) a new scheme to allow some ‘critical
n The best ways to provide continue to wear a face covering in workers’ to attend work with daily
information and training. crowded, enclosed spaces’. testing, when they have been a
In light of this, Usdaw would close contact of someone who
Social Distancing expect employers to encourage, for tests positive for Covid-19. The
While from 19 July there are no example through signage, the use Government has still not published
longer legal requirements to socially of face coverings where they have the full details of the scheme. Where
distance, the union would still previously been legally required, any employers are looking to take
expect employers to maintain social such as retail stores. However, part in the scheme Usdaw will work
distancing measures in stores, such if customers are going to be hard to protect the health and well
as physical distancing markers/ challenged over not wearing a mask, being of our members.
screens at tills and counters. we would expect this to be covered www.usdaw.org.uk/Help-Advice/
The guidance states that by trained security staff. We are Coronavirus-Update
12 Juy/August 2021Self isolation from 16 August From 16 August, people who have been fully vaccinated (who have received their second dose of the vaccine at least two weeks ago) will be exempt from the legal requirement to self-isolate if they are a contact of a positive case. They will instead be advised to take a PCR test as soon as possible. People who are under 18 will also be exempt from self-isolation from 16 August if they are a contact of a positive case. They will also be advised whether a PCR test needs to be taken. Clinically Extremely Vulnerable Individuals who are clinically extremely vulnerable are no longer advised to shield. However, they should continue to follow the guidance for people who are clinically extremely vulnerable. The Government is advising that clinically extremely vulnerable people continue to take extra precautions to protect themselves. This includes practical steps such as avoiding people who are unvaccinated, meeting outdoors and asking family and friends to take lateral flow tests. The guidance from the Government states that businesses should give extra consideration to people at higher risk and to workers facing mental and physical health difficulties. www.gov.uk/coronavirus Pregnant Employees Employers have particular responsibilities towards workers who are new mothers or pregnant women. Further guidance can be found on the Government website or by contacting Usdaw’s equalities section equalitymatters@usdaw.org.uk www.gov.uk/coronavirus NI, Wales and Scotland Separate guidance is in place and can be accessed via the links below: n www.gov.scot/ coronavirus-covid-19 n www.nidirect.gov.uk/campaigns/ coronavirus-covid-19 n gov.wales/coronavirus
NETWORK | Campaign News
CAMPAIGNS
Keeping you up-to-date on Usdaw’s priorities
TACKLING THE ESCALATING VIOLENCE
T
he last 18 months have been Usdaw has stepped up its Freedom Scottish Parliament.
extremely challenging for Usdaw From Fear message, and as a result Ahead of the new law coming
members and reps. of our members’ excellent campaign into effect, Usdaw is now working
Despite the heroic efforts of retail work we have achieved some with employers to highlight the
workers and delivery drivers during significant achievements in the last new provisions and encourage
the pandemic, the crisis resulted in a 12 months. retail workers to report all crimes
significant and disturbing increase in committed under the new law. For
abuse, threats and violence towards New law protecting the law to be effective, it is essential
retail workers. shopworkers in Scotland that members record and report
Last year, the union surveyed From 24 August 2021, a ground- all instances of threats, abuse and
over 2,700 retail workers on their breaking new law will come into violence.
experiences of threats, abuse and effect in Scotland. From this point,
violence during 2020. This survey across Scotland, it will become a Parliamentary petition
showed that almost 9 in 10 retail specific offence to abuse, threaten In 2020, Usdaw launched a petition
workers were verbally abused during or assault a retail worker, sending a to the Government, seeking a new
the crisis. 60 per cent reported clear message that abuse is not part law to protect retail workers right
threats of physical violence and 9 per of the job. across the UK from violence and
cent said they had been physically This legislation, which was passed abuse at work.
assaulted. in January this year, came about as a The petition was the most
Abuse should never be part of the result of significant campaigning by successful ever run by the union;
job. It is unacceptable that nearly Usdaw and the Scottish Labour Party. securing over 100,000 signatures.
1 in 10 retail workers were physically As a result of our Freedom From The petition showed clear public
assaulted simply as a result of going Fear campaign, the legislation was support for a new law and was also
to work. supported right across the sector backed by major retailers and bodies
In response to this alarming trend and by all political parties in the such as the British Retail Consortium.
14 July/August 2021Campaign News | NETWORK
As it secured over 100,000 declined to offer support for a and in retail settings.
signatures the petition triggered a change in the law to better protect Usdaw fully supports these
parliamentary debate on the issues shopworkers. proposals.
behind the Freedom From Fear However, the positive debate
campaign. helped to build momentum and Police and Crime Sentencing Bill
raise awareness of the issues Usdaw As direct result of the parliamentary
Parliamentary debate members are facing. debate triggered by Usdaw’s petition
In June this year the union’s petition and the report published by the
was debated in Parliament. Ahead of House of Commons report Home Affairs Select Committee,
the debate, thousands of members Following Usdaw achieving 100,000 an amendment was tabled for the
emailed their MPs, sharing their signatures on its petition, the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts
experiences of violence and abuse influential Home Affairs Select Bill which was in the committee
at work and ensuring that the Committee launched an inquiry stage at Parliament.
campaign to protect shopworkers into violence and abuse towards The amendment to the bill would
was top of the agenda. retail workers. The report identifies see new laws passed so that violence
The debate and Usdaw’s Freedom that violence and abuse towards and abuse against retail workers
From Fear campaign was supported shop workers is becoming endemic would finally become a specific crime
by MPs from all major political in British society and the policing in the UK – similar to the new law
parties. response is failing to match the scale passed by the Scottish Parliament.
On the same day as the debate, of the problem. The Committee Unfortunately, MPs voted down a
Parliament’s influential Home Affairs therefore called for urgent changes protection of shopworkers law.
Committee published the findings including: Usdaw general secretary
of their own survey highlighting the n A new criminal offence to send a Paddy Lillis said: “MPs had the
scale of the problems faced by retail powerful message that assaults opportunity to back a new law
workers. This survey, which received on retail workers will not be to protect shopworkers. We are
over 12,000 responses, many from tolerated. deeply disappointed that they let
Usdaw members, found that only 12 n The expansion of neighbourhood that opportunity pass them by at a
per cent of incidents reported to the policing teams. time when our members are facing
police led to an arrest. Furthermore, n Proper recording of violence unprecedented levels of violence,
only one in five shopworkers who against shopworkers. threats and abuse.”
reported incidents of abuse or n Police to provide local leadership “However the Minister promised
violence were satisfied with how the in giving greater priority to retail that they would bring forward an
police or their employer responded. crime. amendment in the House of Lords
Ultimately, the Government’s n An Employers Charter setting out and we urge the Government to
response to the debate was how they should support and keep to their word and ensure that
disappointing. Despite overwhelming protect staff. the measure they bring forward will
evidence and support from MPs, n Safer Streets Fund resources to be substantial and deliver much
the Government’s spokesperson support measures on high streets needed protections.”
What next?
Usdaw’s campaign has ensured unions – because it can never be ‘HELP US SORT IT. REPORT IT!’
that the issue of violence and acceptable to tolerate this. Abuse
abuse towards retail workers is not part of the job. The union is planning campaign
activity across the UK during the
remains at the top of the political The support from Usdaw
week commencing 23 August. Reps
agenda. Our extensive research, members for this campaign is
in retail should have already been
and the incredible efforts of our what has always driven it forward.
contacted about this to see what
reps in delivering this campaign The Union remains committed to
activity can be run in their store.
in workplaces and communities delivering the campaign through If you have not yet got anything
across the country, has shown our annual respect week and planned, please contact your area
that the Government needs to other initiatives. We will continue organiser.
take urgent action. to fight for the safety of our
This campaign goes right to members. 23-29 AUGUST 2021
the heart of why workers need
July/August 2021 15NETWORK | Campaign News
SCOTTISH NEW YEAR’S DAY STORE CLOSURE
HOLYROOD FINALLY READY TO LISTEN TO WORKERS
IF EVERY REP ENCOURAGES
JUST 10 MEMBERS
TO COMPLETE THE
CONSULTATION, THAT WILL BE
THOUSANDS OF RESPONSES.
THE LOUDER WE SHOUT,
THE MORE LIKELY
THEY ARE TO LISTEN.
U
sdaw has been campaigning for to work on New Year’s Day or 2 even though stores are generally
14 years for large retail stores January. very quiet on the day..
in Scotland to close on New n 48 per cent of members said that
Year’s Day. Hogmanay and New working on New Year’s Day was CONSULTATION LAUNCHED
Year is a special holiday, but this is not voluntary in their store. With the launch of the consultation,
not reflected in the experience of n 76 per cent said that working over the Scottish Government has finally
many retail workers, with three- New Year affected their ability to agreed to listen to the opinions
quarters saying they spend too little enjoy the holiday. of those most affected by stores
time with friends and family. n 74 per cent said they spend too trading on New Year’s Day – shop
Scottish ministers have the power little time with their loved ones workers. That’s why it’s really
to prohibit large retail stores from over New Year. important that as many Usdaw
opening on New Year’s Day. They n 47 per cent were unable to spend members as possible respond to the
have chosen not to implement time with family who live further consultation, so that the Scottish
this, preventing our members from away during the period. Government hears loud and clear
having a decent break over the There’s no surprise that Usdaw that stores should close on New
Christmas period. members feel this way. As key Year’s Day to give shop workers a
With your help in signing workers delivering the essential well-earned break.
the petition last year, we have service of keeping the nation fed, If you are an active rep, speak to
managed to persuade the shopworkers deserve a decent your members about this campaign,
Scottish Government to launch a break over the festive period. They and encourage them to take just a
consultation on closing large stores have worked long hours in difficult couple of minutes to respond to the
on New Year’s Day. circumstances throughout the consultation.
This is a really big step, but there pandemic, faced unprecedented If every rep encourages just
is still work to do to persuade the levels of abuse and worried every 10 members to complete the
Scottish Government to act, so we working day about catching the virus consultation, that will be thousands
need all of our members in Scotland and taking it home to their families of responses.
to respond to the consultation. However this is not just a This really is a case of, the louder
We know that this is an issue that campaign for the pandemic, Usdaw we shout, the more likely they are
is important to our members. Our members have for many years to listen.The consultation can be
survey results couldn’t be clearer: demanded a proper break after found here: https://consult.gov.
n 99 per cent of members agree the extremely busy and stressful scot/economic-development/
that large stores in Scotland shopping period in the run-up to new-year-s-day-trading-for-large-
should close on New Year’s Day. Christmas. Workers throughout retailers/ or by searching online
n 72 per cent said that they or their Scotland get to enjoy a day off, yet for ‘new year’s day trading for large
colleagues come under pressure our members have to go into work, retailers’.
16 July/August 2021Campaign News | NETWORK
SAVE OUR SHOPS
URGENT RECOVERY PLAN FOR HIGH STREET
T
he PM’s so-called ‘levelling up’ Government is merely managing the to deal with the immediate crisis
falls way short of the much decline of high streets instead of and a longer term strategy to deal
needed and long overdue fundamentally reforming the retail with some of the more fundamental
industrial strategy for retail to help industry, by tackling the structural structural issues facing the industry.
save our shops. issues that leave ‘bricks and Usdaw is calling for the Government
The Government’s high street mortar’ retailers at a competitive to adopt an urgent recovery plan for
strategy, which was launched as part disadvantage to online. We of course the retail sector.”
of the Prime Minister’s ‘levelling up’ welcome investment in high streets, Usdaw has called on the
speech in July, doesn’t deliver the but it is not enough on its own. Government to immediately:
industrial strategy that the union “Usdaw is deeply concerned that n Extend the business rates holiday
was campaigning for before the the end of full business rates relief at 100 per cent until the end of
pandemic or the now much needed in June will lead to additional cost the financial year, as has already
recovery plan to help save our pressures that could push many happened in the devolved nations.
shops. non-food retailers to scale back, cut n Fundamentally reform business
This comes against the backdrop jobs or collapse completely. This rates. Despite the recent interim
of the Government’s decision to also coincides with reductions in report, following last year’s call
reduce business rates relief. furlough support. for evidence, the Government is
In April last year, the Government “With over 180,000 jobs lost yet to take the clear and decisive
paused business rates for hard-hit across the industry last year and action that retailers need to
retail, leisure and hospitality firms, 200,000 predicted for this year, reform/reduce this outdated and
with almost 400,000 benefitting we needed to hear from the imbalanced commercial property
from the tax break over the past 15 Government immediate action to tax. The call for some form of
months. However, the holiday came reduce rents and rates for high online sales tax is getting stronger,
to an end in June, in its current form, street retailers, alongside levelling particularly in light of the rapid
reducing to a 66 per cent discount the playing field with an online sales growth in online shopping. A levy
for companies with a £2 million cap tax. The coronavirus pandemic has set at 1 per cent of online sales
on the support they can receive. This pushed many retailers and retail would raise around £1.5bn. This
reduced package is due to continue workers to breaking point, so we could fund a cut in business rates
until April 2022. needed government action to be of around 20 per cent.
Usdaw general secretary equally significant. More information at:
Paddy Lillis said “We fear that the “Retailers need urgent measures www.usdaw.org.uk/sos
July/August 2021 17NETWORK | Conferences
CONFERENCES CATCH UP
Usdaw delegates call for greater support for parents and carers and to highlight
the job inequality young workers experienced during the coronavirus crisis
U
sdaw delegates attended two and working parents. precarious, has become even more
virtual conferences to call for Usdaw general secretary Paddy destabilised as discrimination,
family-friendly employment Lillis said: “Research over the past redundancies and the intensification
rights as well as calling for a scheme year consistently shows that women of unpaid care responsibilities
to support young workers who are have been disproportionately threaten their employment, financial
on low pay and experiencing job affected by the social and economic security and mental health.
insecurity. impacts of Covid-19. Those with “The Government’s response to
caring responsibilities are one of the the pandemic has not only failed
LABOUR WOMEN’S groups of women that have been to protect the needs of women,
CONFERENCE 2021 particularly badly affected as the particularly those combining
An Usdaw delegation attended pandemic has imposed new and paid work with unpaid care, but
this year’s online Labour Women’s additional unpaid care and childcare has further entrenched women’s
Conference in June. The delegation responsibilities. inequality, and put women’s
called for greater support for “Even before the onset of the continued economic participation
working parents and carers coronavirus crisis, reconciling at grave risk. We are calling on the
including paid carers and parental paid work with unpaid care placed Labour Party, working with trade
leave, improved sick pay and women under significant pressure. unions, to bring forward more
maternity pay, along with stronger Since then women’s attachment effective family-friendly employment
protections for pregnant workers to the labour market, already rights.”
18 July/August 2021Conferences | NETWORK
economy resulting in thousands of
workers facing redundancy. LABOUR WOMEN’S
Usdaw regional secretary for CONFERENCE
Scotland Tracy Gilbert said: “Young Each year the conference
workers in Scotland have been brings together hundreds of
disproportionately impacted by Labour women, politicians
the Covid-19 crisis and are more and activsits from across the
likely to work in sectors, such as country.
retail, hospitality and leisure, which The conference enables
have been most affected by the Labour women to better
pandemic. participate in policy making
“Recent research by IPPR Scotland and offers the opportunity
suggests that youth unemployment to share ideas with delegates
could peak with over 100,000 young from across the UK.
people facing unemployment by Due to Covid-19 the decision
the end of the year – over one in was taken to have an online
three of Scotland’s young workers. conference to ensure that
It is clear that employers find it too women had the chance to
cheap and too easy to make young participate in a conference
workers redundant. especially following the
“In Scotland the Government cancellation of the conference
has launched the Youth Guarantee in 2020.
Scheme to support young people The weekend included
into education and work following speeches from senior
the effects of the coronavirus crisis. politicians, policy debates,
T
While this is a welcome step in and a range of workshops and
the right direction the provisions training.
do not go far enough to support
young workers, whose experience STUC YOUTH
of the job market has long been CONFERENCE
characterised by low pay and job The STUC Youth Committee
insecurity. Work experience is not is made up of young
enough – we need jobs.” workers under 27 years of
Usdaw’s call for a better deal for Usdaw is calling on the STUC to age from across Scotland
women workers includes: campaign for: and campaigns on a range
n Introducing a statutory, day one n Employment rights to start from of issues including climate
right to ten days paid carers’ and day one of employment. change, fair work for young
parental leave. n Stronger redundancy rights, people, housing and poverty.
n Ending the qualifying periods for including increases to It represents young workers’
basic rights such as sick pay and statutory redundancy pay, a views and opinions to a
parental leave and improving levelling up so that young number of bodies including
access to and increasing rates of workers have the same Government and ensures a
statutory parental payments such entitlement as older workers and young workers voice is heard
as maternity pay. qualification for redundancy pay at the STUC General Council.
n Strengthening protection against from day one. STUC affiliates are encouraged
redundancy and health and safety n A jobs guarantee element to to send delegates to the Youth
rights for pregnant women and the Youth Guarantee Scheme to Conference and nominate
new mothers. ensure that young workers are young members to the STUC
able to quickly access high quality Youth Committee. Affiliates
STUC YOUTH CONFERENCE employment. nominating delegates are also
An Usdaw delegation attended n Employers to be under legal able to submit motions for
this year’s Scottish Trades Union duty to assess the impact their debate and consideration by
Congress Youth Conference in policies, practices and procedures the conference.
June, where they highlighted how (including working conditions)
the coronavirus crisis has had a have on workers’ mental health
devastating impact on the Scottish and act upon the findings.
July/August 2021 19LIFELONG LEARNING
IS FOR REPS TOO!
R
ep development is really Member Quotes through and was easy to follow.
important to Usdaw that’s Tracy White, Tesco York The course guided you through
why the union has expanded “The SST CPD courses have been the different aspects of an agenda
its learning with the ‘New skills very useful during the pandemic as by means of a video which is
Academy’ to provide a range of they helped me with some mental accompanied by written dialogue
online accredited Continuing health issues I was having. Working underneath. The videos were
Personal Development (CPD) through the mental health courses noticeably clear and concise which
modules for reps through their Staff highlighted what I need to focus on helps you to absorb the information
Skills Training programme (SST). to get my head in the right direction. easily. There is a quick test at the
(Reps who sign up also get access to The computer course was very end of the module to make sure that
the XO student discount card which helpful in gaining extra knowledge you have taken the info in. Once
provides discounts on a whole range and sign language has been a good completed you can download your
of offers.) Courses are completely distraction as well as helping me printable certificate of completion.
free to reps and include a range of build on the skills I was learning I’d rate the course 10/10.”
subject areas such as: before the pandemic. I would highly
recommend reps take a look.” Michelle Whitley, Argos Widnes
n Computing/Technology I have really enjoyed the course on
n Health & Safety Gavin Watson Assertiveness Skills. It has shown me
n Health & Wellbeing Co-op Birtley DC ULR coordinator a lot of best practice in all areas of
n Human Resources (HR) “I found the agenda setting both my role as a rep and also within
n Medical & Mental Health certification quite easy to navigate my life outside of work”.
The most popular CPD certificated
courses for our reps include: Go to the Rep Development section on the learning gateway for a full
n Staying Safe Online course list www.usdaw.org.uk/learninggateway and contact the
n How to Write Better Emails Lifelong Learning team to enrol: LifelongLearning@usdaw.org.uk
There is a limited number of places available per year, so make sure
n Equality & Diversity
you don’t miss out. Once you’ve signed up for a course however you can
n IT Certification Level 2
access as many modules as you like.
n Basic Maths Certificate
Members too can benefit from Usdaw’s New Skills Academy offer with
n Mental Health Awareness
a massive discount of 74 per cent on every course by using the Usdaw
Certificate. code. For further information go to the learning gateway page of the
xostudentdiscounts.co.uk/sign- website: www.usdaw.org.uk/learninggateway
up
20 July/August 2021Lifelong Learning | NETWORK
REPS DEVELOP A including Cancer Support, Diabetes, TAKE A BITESIZE CHUNK OF
LEARNING CURVE Common Health Conditions and LEARNING WITH LITMOS
For a number of years now Usdaw Nutrition and Health. Usdaw’s partnership with Litmos
reps have benefitted from the www.learningcurvegroup.co.uk/ specialises in offering online bitesize
union’s partnership with the landing/usdawcourses courses for reps and members.
‘Learning Curve Group’ which These vary in length, from a few
provides fully funded Level 2 ‘SKILLS NETWORK’ - A NEW minutes, to a few hours.
qualifications for all our reps and ONLINE LEARNING OFFER FOR Some short courses are organised
members. Reps in particular have REPS AND MEMBERS in to themed pathways which include
found the 40+ courses on offer, have Usdaw have gone in to partnership such topics as:
helped develop them as a rep and an with a new learning provider ‘Skills n Coaching & Mentoring
individual, the most popular courses Network ‘ to deliver free online Level n Reducing Stress
being: 1 English, maths and ICT courses and n Workplace Hygiene
n Digital Skills qualifications. n Equality & Diversity
n Climate Change & Environmental Level 1 English and maths are n Excel
Awareness a mandatory requirement for n First Aid
n Domestic Abuse accessing any Level 2 apprenticeship, n Mental Health
n Equality & Diversity as well as being an important n Handling Conflict
n LGBT Inclusion in the Workplace foundation for developing a range n Cyber Security
n Mental Health Awareness of other skills, but up until now, n Microsoft Office
n Mental Health First Aid and members have struggled to find n Redundancy Support
Advocacy suitable online, flexible provision. n Rep Skill
n Information Advice and Guidance The new offer will be available to n Workplace Discrimination &
n Team Leading members and reps from 12 July but Harassment
n Workplace Violence & Harassment there are a limited number of free www.usdaw.org.uk/Members/
A range of health-related places so make sure you sign up Training-Development/Online-
qualifications are also available ASAP. Learning-Resources/eCareers
July/August 2021 21NETWORK | Lifelong Learning
NEW LEARNING CENTRE
AT TESCO GOOLE DC
The hard work of Usdaw learning reps pays off with a
brand new learning centre opening its doors
L
ifelong learning has been taking new found enthusiasm from the
place at Tesco Goole for over a ULR team for the learning projects
decade but it’s since 2017 that ahead.
the site really took off. “The new room has been received
After launching a successful well by the ULRs and other reps on
learning programme with Profound site. The space’s primary function is
training (and then learning curve for the members to access learning,
group) the site offered a rolling but it is a great promotional tool to
programme of maths and English use at inductions for new starters,
classes with over 50 colleagues a resource centre for leaflets and
enrolled at any one time, attending advice and an additional room
classes depending on what shift to hold meetings if it’s not in use.
they were on, both English and non- Located just at the end of the
English staff took up the offer and canteen it’s a visible example of the
at one stage there were 11 different Usdaw/Tesco partnership in action
nationalities taking part. and a clear benefit of joining the
Prior to lockdown Usdaw secured union.”
funding to create an Usdaw learning Sean Dixon, an experienced
centre within the warehouse and it ULR coordinator who has been
was agreed the union could create supporting the Goole site said: “The
two large rooms facing directly onto site and the offer will be greatly
the canteen in a prime location. improved with the new centre,
not only will it provide storage for
GREAT RECEPTION TO CENTRE equipment and resources, but it will
Martyn Warwick, regional lifelong also allow colleagues to complete
learning project worker said: “The courses in a space dedicated to
hard work and patience of the learning. It will also be a place where
Usdaw union learning reps (ULRs) you can discreetly pick up Usdaw
over the last 5 years is really going resources as well as information
to pay off with the new dedicated around mental health and general
Usdaw learning centre at Goole. wellbeing.”
The space will have two rooms, Tesco managers throughout the
one focused on IT delivery while DC are also enthused by the new
the second will be a more relaxed learning suite, the site has always
information/learning space where been supportive of the whole
learners can pick up resources, lifelong learning project and recently
use the book library or take part in they featured the Usdaw learning
classes.” offer and centre as part of the site’s The new Usdaw learning centre at
Union learning coordinator Keith promotional recruitment video, Tesco Goole DC will offer IT based
learning and a more relaxed space
Springate said “After a long wait the demonstrating the importance of
where learners can pick up resources,
learning centre is finally in place. the learning agenda as a key benefit use the book library or take part in
It’s looking great, and there’s a of working at the site. classes.
22 July/August 2021Lifelong Learning | NETWORK
ENGLISH AND MATHS
Recent months saw yet more success in English
and maths for staff at the Tesco Goole Distribution
Centre when more than 30 members of staff
received their English and maths certificates. They
are the latest beneficiaries of a lifelong learning
partnership at the site that has seen over 140
people take part in English and maths courses.
Usdaw union learning rep Keith Springate said:
“Usdaw and Tesco have been working together with
Profound Services for a while now. We have a team
of ULRs who promote the courses and help to set
them up. Profound’s tutors do the rest, and they
have an excellent record of success.”
Profound’s operations manager Barry Nelson
said: “We are proud to be involved with this
project. For a lot of these workers, English is a
second language so to have 142 completions is
really fantastic and shows the commitment of the
students. It’s also been a success story for Profound
and a privilege to work with a union management
partnership.”
STUDENTS WERE FULL OF PRAISE …
Andy Rowley
ULR Andy Rowley was one of those who took the
class. “I took the English course to see how it worked
and to gain a better qualification than I received
at school. The course was fun and interesting, I
learnt new skills and understood the work better. I
progressed to the next level of English and passed
both levels. I also learnt maths with great success.
I recommend everyone to take up the learning
challenge.”
Marian Viscol
Marian Viscol said: “I took this course help me speak
and write better English. Our teacher Joanne was
great and was always ready to help when we needed
her. I’m grateful to everyone involved; Usdaw, Tesco
and Profound Group for this fantastic opportunity
to improve my English.”
Katazyna Stanislawa Wegrzn
Katazyna Stanislawa Wegrzn said: “I took the English
course because I wanted to feel more comfortable
while speaking with my workmates. I was surprised
how quickly I stopped being stressed and joined
conversations with everyone around me. I improved
my English and built self-confidence, so I’ve achieved
two goals at once.”
July/August 2021 23You can also read
