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THE BIMONTHLY MAGAZINE FOR USDAW ACTIVISTS – JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
USDAW
MEMBERS
KEEPING
THE
COUNTRY
GOING USDAW CALLS ON THE
GOVERNMENT TO PRIORITISE
THE SAFETY OF ITS MEMBERS
vaccinespacefacecoveringsPPErespect
RETAIL | DELIVERY | WAREHOUSE | MANUFACTURING |
Sign up for
our new digital
bitesize courses at:
REPS’
usdaw.org.uk/RepsHandbook
They’re a great way to become
online
familiar with the different roles
and functions of Usdaw reps.
You can read the three-part
learning
Reps’ Handbook
online too.
New digital bitesize courses
Course 1: Getting Started: The Role of the Rep
Course 2: Organising and Recruitment Part 1
Course 3: Organising and Recruitment Part 2
Course 4: Representing Members Part 1
Course 5: Representing Members Part 2
Three-part Reps’ Handbook PDFs to read online or download
Reps’ Handbook: Getting started - The Role of the Rep
dtp.usdaw.co.uk/repshb1
Reps’ Handbook: Organising and Recruitment
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Reps’ Handbook: Representing Members
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Learn
Welcome | NETWORK
MEMBER SAFETY
Network is published bimonthly and
distributed to Usdaw activists.
IS TOP PRIORITY
T
he new year started with
PUBLISHED BY: a new national lockdown.
Usdaw
For many of our members
188 Wilmslow Road, Manchester, M14 6LJ
t: 0161 224 2804
this was nothing new as they
e: network@usdaw.org.uk had been on the frontline of
w: usdaw.org.uk the pandemic since March last
year. Shopworkers, drivers,
HEAD OF MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS members in distribution,
Mike Glover manufacturing and in funeral
EDITOR services have continued to
Saiqa Khushnood work tirelessly to ensure that
shelves remained stocked,
REPORTER
Sarah Sherborne medicine was available,
deliveries were made and
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT other essential tasks were
Paula Barke
carried out.
OTHER CONTRIBUTORS Usdaw has been working
Jo Bird, Debra Blow, Tony Dale, Adam Kaczmarek, hard to represent our
Doug Russell, David Williams, members' concerns to Freedom From Fear petition
PHOTOGRAPHERS Government and employers, to protect Retail Workers from
Lee Boswell, Pete Hill, Matt Link and the general public through abuse, threats and violence
Via Getty Images: local and national media has reached over 104,000
Paul Bradbury, Wavebreakmedia, outlets. signatures which means that
undefined undefined, The new highly infectious it will now be considered for a
Kikovic, momcilog,
strain of Covid-19 is causing debate in Parliament. We will
andresr, BrianAJacksonw
immense anxiety and our be doing everything we can
priority is the safety of our to keep the pressure on the
ADVERTISING members. We are working Government to deliver the
Century One Publishing hard to ensure that employers legislation our members need.
Alban Row, 27-31 Verulam Road, revert back to the stringent I want to thank our reps
St Albans, AL3 4DG
safety measures that were for the amazing work they
applied during the first continue to do during these
ACCOUNT MANAGER lockdown last year. unprecedented times.
Jack Green From our conversations with Whether its representing
t: 01727 739 196 employers, we are aware that members, negotiating safety
e: jack@centuryonepublishing.uk the retail sector is currently measures or helping out in
suffering from incredibly high their local communities, our
©Usdaw 2021 reproduction in whole
sickness absence rates as a reps have shown that the most
or part by any means without written
result of Covid-19 therefore we difficult situations can bring
permissions of the publishers
is strictly forbidden. are calling on the Government out the very best in people.
to prioritise retail workers for
This publisher accepts no responsibility testing and vaccinations and
for errors, omissions or the
for customers to adhere to
consequences thereof.
guidelines including wearing Usdaw General Secretary
masks and keeping a two-
metre distance.
Thanks to the fantastic
work of our reps, Usdaw’s
January/February 2021 3
PUZZLED BY PENSIONS?
how much has been lost
to pension scammers?
The truth is no one really knows…but it could now be in the billions
There are six common tactics used by the scammers – make sure you know them.
Contact out of the blue… False Authority…
Pension cold calling is banned Scammers often provide you with
in the UK. If you receive an communications displaying fake
unsolicited approach by phone, regulatory credentials.
email or on social media – reject
any offers you receive.
Time constraints… Flattery…
Scammers will put you under Scammers can be over friendly and
pressure to sign up to a deal talk in your language but they have
straight away. one message – they want your
money!
Fake reviews… Remember not every adviser you speak to is out
to rip you off, but there is no shame in taking a few
Scammers post fake reviews to minutes to check out who you are dealing with. If you
gain your trust. are an Usdaw member and in any doubt call us on
0161 224 2804 or email us at pensions@usdaw.org.uk
Unrealistic returns…
Be Smart
Scammers consistently try Be Sure
to convince you of high
guaranteed returns on your Be Safe
investments if you transfer
your money.
Join Usdaw online at
www.usdaw.org.uk/join
You can also contact your
Usdaw rep or call our
Helpline 0800 030 80 30
Stock photography. Posed by models.
l FOR YOUR USDAW NOTICEBOARD
Contents | NETWORK
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
COVID-19: UPDATE
10 | A n update from Usdaw's general secretary Paddy
Lillis on the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
CONTRIBUTION RATE
12 | A
guide to Usdaw's proposed contribution rate
change.
FREEDOM FROM FEAR
14 | A
n update on the campaign petition reaching
beyond its target of 100,000 signatures.
12
SAVE THE HIGH STREET
18 | U
sdaw's campaign calls for a retail recovery plan to
save the struggling high street.
CELEBRATING REPS
20 | Network shares the stories of two exceptional
activists who continue to support members.
UNIVERSAL CREDIT IN FOCUS
22 | A
handy guide to universal credit including how to
claim and other FAQs.
20
PARENTING DURING THE PANDEMIC
24 | A
guide for parents juggling work and looking after
children due to nationwide school closures.
LEARNING REP AWARD WINNER
36 | Network speaks to Unionlearn's Learning Rep of
the Year award winner Shirley Smith.
REGULARS
03 FOREWORD
28
06 NEWS
28 PREGNANCY RISK ASSESSMENT
32 RECRUITMENT & ORGANISING
38 HEALTH & SAFETY
42 MEMBER OFFERS
45 PUBLICATIONS UPDATE
36 46 OVER TO YOU
January/February 2021 5
NETWORK | News
IN THE NEWS
Don’t forget to email the editor your view network@usdaw.org.uk
VACCINE PRIORITY FOR KEY STAFF
U
sdaw continues to
call for key workers in
essential retail to be
prioritised for vaccination
against Covid-19 after
the Government
indicated they are
looking at priority for
the second phase and
the Joint Committee
on Vaccination and
Immunisation ( JCVI)
accepted that occupation
is a factor. The union has
made similar calls on
the Scottish and Welsh
Governments, along with
the Northern Ireland
Executive. members in the funeral ensuring that food and pharmaceutical
Health Secretary Matt industry. There is an remains on the shelves. distribution to be on
Hancock told the House urgent need to prioritise From our conversations the list of prioritisation.
of Commons: “We’ll be other occupations at with employers, we are They cannot work from
looking very carefully at greatest risk of infection aware that the sector is home and are at higher
those professions that during the second phase currently suffering from risk of infection because
will need to be prioritised of the rollout. incredibly high sickness of the essential work
in phase two of the “According to the absence rates as a result they do, which should be
prioritisation programme. Government’s own of Covid-19. acknowledged as part of
We’ll look at, of course, research, retail is an “So the second phase of the rollout programme.
teachers and police and occupation with an the vaccine rollout must “We welcome the early
others, but also we will elevated Covid-19 reflect the risks linked indications that high
look at shopworkers related death rate. Close to occupation. Given the risk occupations may
and we will make those proximity to the public as risks involved in their be prioritised and look
decisions based on the well as the indoor working public-facing roles, retail forward to entering into
data”. environment are factors. workers should be one discussions with the
Usdaw general “Retail workers, of the groups prioritised, Government on this issue
secretary Paddy Lillis said: including grocery delivery so they are able to of great concern.”
“It is understandable to drivers, have played a continue to support their
prioritise those at highest key role in ensuring the communities throughout
@UsdawUnion
risk of serious illness or country is able to get the rest of the pandemic.
death during the first through the current crisis. “We also want
UsdawUnion
phase of rollout, along These critical workers other key workers in
with frontline health have played a vital role essential industries like
UsdawUnion
workers including our in our communities food manufacturing
6 January/February 2021
News | NETWORK
STAFF CONCERN OVER RULE BREAKING CUSTOMERS
CALL TO REINSTATE FULL LOCKDOWN SAFETY
Usdaw has made an urgent call on
supermarkets and food retailers to
immediately revert to the stringent
safety measures in stores that were
applied during the first lockdown.
The union has been inundated with
complaints from members deeply
concerned about their safety as
customers blatantly flout the rules.
Usdaw general secretary Paddy
Lillis said: “Retail staff are working
with the public every day and not
only suffer increased abuse but
are deeply worried about catching
Covid-19. The strict safety measures
that we agreed with employers in
the first lockdown must now be
immediately reinstated in every shops safer and limit the spread of dealing with abusive customers
workplace to ensure that staff are Covid-19.” and those who refuse to follow
working in the safest conditions Usdaw is calling for the following social distancing measures.
possible. Where safety measures safety measures to be implemented: n Enhanced cleaning on the shop
are agreed, retailers need to make n Customer numbers limited, with a floor and in back areas.
sure that they are being followed ‘one in one out’ policy and proper n PPE, hand sanitiser and cleaning
consistently, in every store. queuing systems. products available for all staff.
“We are also very concerned by n Clear signage telling customers to n Doorstep-only delivery with
reports that too many customers wear face coverings. procedures in place to protect
are not following necessary safety n Strictly observed two-metre social drivers.
measures like social distancing, distancing, with markers and one- n Staff who are sick or need to self-
wearing a face covering and only way systems where possible. isolate for Covid-related absence
shopping for essential items. Usdaw n Incidents of violence and abuse to receive full pay and not
is urging the shopping public to must not be tolerated. Employers subject to disciplinary absence
strictly follow the rules to help make must back up their staff when procedures.
SUPPORTING MEMBERS’ HEALTH
LET’S GET EVERYONE TALKING Time to Talk Day 2021
Mental Health Awareness
‘Bingo Card’
#ItsGoodToTalk
The last 12 months have been incredibly tough; the coronavirus pandemic continues to be a
mental as well as a physical health crisis.
Usdaw will again be marking national after their mental health.
So this year, on Time to Talk Day, Usdaw wants to focus on supporting our members’ mental
health. Time to Talk Day this year is on Thursday, 4 February and the theme is the power of small
– even a small conversation about mental health has the power to make a big difference. We hope
that this bingo card will help you to think of small things you can do to look after your mental health.
Time to Talk Day which this year is Time to Talk Day is a chance for all 1. Ask a colleague
how they are
2. Find out more
about Usdaw’s
3. Have a
conversation with
being held on Thursday 4 February. of us to talk about mental health, to (when you‘ve got
time to listen to
the answer!)
‘It’s Good to Talk’
Campaign.
a friend... even a
small conversation
has the power
The union wants to focus on listen, to change lives. Usdaw reps
to make a big
difference!
www.usdaw.org.uk/mhc
supporting members’ mental continue to do an amazing job at 4. Share the
Time to Change
5. Think of two
people you can
6. Do one thing today
that helps you to
health and the theme is how even helping members with mental health post on social
media.
talk to about how
you’re feeling.
unwind and relax.
a small conversation about mental problems so they get the support www.time-to-change.
org.uk
health can make a big difference. they need at work and beyond. 7. Run the Usdaw 8. Think of something 9. Try Usdaw’s
Mental Health that makes you bitesize mental
This issue of Network includes a www.usdaw.org.uk/Campaigns/ survey in your
workplace.
laugh. health course
‘Mind your Head’.
‘bingo card’ which will help reps think Mental-Health www.usdaw.org.uk/
WkDuringCv
www.usdaw.org.uk/
MindYourHead
of small things they can do to look www.usdaw.org.uk
www.usdaw.org.uk/equalities equalitymatters@usdaw.org.uk
January/February 2021 7
NETWORK | News
GROUND-BREAKING £10 PER HOUR RATE AGREED
USDAW ‘NEW DEAL’ FOR MORRISONS STAFF
Usdaw has negotiated a £10 per
hour basic rate for Morrisons
shopworkers in a ground-breaking
pay deal. The offer, which will go out
to ballot and is recommended by
Usdaw, is a major step forward for
the union’s New Deal for Workers
campaign that called for £10 and is
50p an hour above the voluntary
Living Wage Foundation rate.
Usdaw national officer Joanne “The new consolidated hourly rate ballot.
McGuinness said: “For some time is now the leading rate of the major “It’s been a tough time for food
we have been talking to Morrisons supermarkets, which is paid every retail staff who have worked
about taking retail staff to £10 an hour and removes the uncertainty throughout the pandemic in difficult
hour, as we call for in our New Deal of a bonus payment. circumstances. They provide the
for Workers campaign. So I am “It is a big step forward and shows essential service of keeping the
delighted that we have agreed a rise that the company are prepared to nation fed and deserve our support,
that achieves that goal and takes invest in the staff to help grow the respect and appreciation. Most of
staff well beyond the real living business and I hope that the deal is all they deserve decent pay and this
wage. supported by our members in the offer is a welcome boost.”
ESSENTIAL SERVICE REWARDED
B&M BONUS FOR HARDWORKING EMPLOYEES
Usdaw has welcomed B&M agreeing to have secured this bonus for colleagues and are always working
to pay an extra week’s wages in our members in B&M. They are to improve health and safety. Retail
recognition of the hard work of providing an essential service, that staff are dealing with the public
their staff through the exceptional we all rely on, and they deserve our every day and are not only suffering
challenges of the pandemic. support, respect and appreciation. increased abuse but are also deeply
Usdaw national officer Dave “We continue to call on the worried about catching Covid-19.”
Gill said: “It’s been a tough time company to revisit the support www.usdaw.org.uk/About-Us/
for retail staff, so we are pleased provided for extremely vulnerable News
WIN
£100 gift vouchers
at WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK/WIN
Sponsored by Lighthouse Financial Advice www.usdaw.org.uk/lfa Closing date 1 March 2021. Terms apply.
Due to the current situation with Covid 19, the voucher will be despatched as soon as possible after the draw has taken place.
8 January/February 2021
News | NETWORK
ANNUAL DELEGATE MEETING 2021
IN BRIEF
RETAIL FOOTFALL
UK retail destinations
GO AHEAD FOR ONLINE ADM
witnessed a footfall decline
of 10.9 per cent in the Usdaw’s executive council
week to 16 January. has endorsed the general
secretary’s recommendation
RETAIL SALES to have the Annual Delegate
According to the British Meeting in April this year and
Retail Consortium, retailers for this to be an online event.
suffered their worst annual The conference will be a
sales performance on two-day event held on Sunday
record in 2020, driven by 25 and Monday 26 April 2021,
a slump in demand for and will be video-streamed to
fashion and homeware delegates with a secure online
products. Food sales voting system, operated by
growth rose 5.4 per cent an independent external
on 2019, non-food fell organisation, running
about 5 per cent. concurrently with conference
proceedings.
PRIMARK A circular containing the
Primark says it has no full details of the conference
plans to sell its clothes including revised programme conference. Branches will then have
online despite warnings of dates was sent to branches earlier an opportunity to meet and discuss
that lockdown store in the month. how they wish to cast their vote during
closures could cost it more Outlined below are some of the the virtual conference.
than £1bn in lost sales. main points covered in the circular:
Voting
BONMARCHE Standing Orders Voting will be undertaken in blocks
Bonmarche has collapsed A revised temporary code of Standing at the end of each session, for
into administration for Orders will be drafted. These will be example after a morning session
the second time in a year, used for this year only and are not a Propositions 1-20 will be voted on
putting 1,500 jobs at risk. permanent change to the Standing and so on throughout the day until all
Retail tycoon Philip Day Orders. propositions have been voted on.
completed a takeover of
Bonmarche early this year Delegate Attendance
after an administration Delegate attendance will remain in line
process in October 2019 with normal practice as set out in Rule UNION ELECTIONS
but he has failed to revive 8, Section 3(a).
the company’s fortunes. The elections for Usdaw’s
Bonmarche issued a series Ordinary Propositions president and executive council
of profit warnings in 2018 Due to restrictions on time, branches (the union’s ruling body) are now
and 2019 after being hit by will not formally move their own underway.
rising costs from business propositions. Ordinary Propositions Postal ballot papers and
rates as well as a shift to will be formally moved and seconded election addresses were sent
online shopping. by the president. They will not be to all members from 18 January
debated during the conference but 2021 to be returned by Friday 12
FRASER GROUP they will be voted on. Any branch February 2021.
The group has unveiled that strongly wishes to speak on their These elections will be
plans to open a multi- proposition will have the option to conducted by the Independent
brand flagship store in withdraw it and bring it back to ADM Civica Election Services
Birmingham city centre. in 2022. (previously known as Electoral
A Final Agenda will be distributed Reform Services).
to delegates in advance of the
January/February 2021 9
NETWORK | Covid-19
ANOTHER LOCKDOWN LEAVES
MANY WORKERS STRUGGLING
Usdaw calls for retail staff to be made a priority group for vaccination and Covid
testing, while social distancing rules need to be reinforced to keep workers safe
O
n 4 January 2021, the Prime workers can be found at: and Covid testing. The letter also
Minister announced a new www.gov.uk search critical called for social distancing rules in
National Lockdown for workers children coronavirus shops to be reinforced to help keep
England. Similar announcements supermarket workers and delivery
have been made by the devolved Clinically extremely vulnerable drivers safe as the pandemic
administrations for Scotland, Wales If you are clinically extremely escalates.
and Northern Ireland. vulnerable you should not attend
The new restrictions mean that work, school, college or university, A new deal for workers
people should stay at home unless and limit the time you spend outside Usdaw has been making the case
they have a reasonable excuse. the home. You should only go out for for the Government to act to ensure
Schools in England, Scotland medical appointments, exercise or if it that the right financial support is in
and Wales are closed with remote is essential. place to support workers through
learning until February half term. If you have received a letter to the crisis:
The new restrictions also mean say that you are clinically extremely
that non-food retail will close. vulnerable, you should advise your Financial support to isolate
manager and not attend work. If you Test and Trace is a key part of the
When you can leave home have any queries about this, speak Government strategy to tackle
You must not leave or be outside of to your union rep or local official. the spread of the virus but asking
your home except where you have a people to self-isolate on statutory
‘reasonable excuse’. Workplaces that are closed sick pay of £95.85 per week is unfair
A reasonable excuse covers a The Job Retention Scheme has been and impractical. Usdaw is calling for
range of essential activities such extended to April 2021. This means workers who are sick or need to self-
as shopping, exercise and visiting furlough pay will be available for isolate for Covid-related absence to
people in your support bubble. those who need it, for instance for receive full pay.
It can also include going to work those whose stores are closed or
where it is not possible to work from those who are shielding. Universal credit
home. At the start of the crisis the
Breaches of the new national Government gave universal credit
Schools – children of critical/key lockdown claims a £20 per week uplift, until
workers The rules of the new national March 2021. We need the uplift to
Schools will continue to provide lockdown have been enacted in law. continue.
places for children of key workers. Breaches of the rules can result
Colleges, primary (reception in a Fixed Penalty Notice of £200 Job retention scheme pay cuts
onwards) and secondary schools will for the first offence, doubling for In the second lockdown most
remain open for vulnerable children further offences up to a maximum employers paid just 80 per cent of
and the children of critical workers. of £6,400. wages to furloughed workers.
Wraparound care can also remain Usdaw believes that no worker
open for these children. Early Years Usdaw’s response should be receiving a reduction
settings (eg nurseries) can remain Ahead of the announcement Usdaw in wages to below the National
open. wrote to the Government calling Minimum Wage rate of £8.72
The full list of sectors where for frontline retail staff to be made for the hours that they would
workers are defined as critical a priority group for vaccination usually work.
10 January/February 2021£10 per hour for all workers The TUC estimates that 9.36 million workers, one-third of the UK’s total workforce, are paid less than £10 per hour. The time has come for better pay and a real living wage for all workers. Crisis in the retail sector – immediate rescue measures needed This new lockdown and the closure of non-essential retail shops will add to the growing crisis on the retail high street. Throughout the Covid crisis Usdaw has been making the case for a Retail Recovery Plan that would address issues such as business rates and the need for a level playing field between ‘bricks and mortar’ and online retail. The union is also lobbying Government for immediate measures to help rescue the sector such as a business rates holiday and rent relief for shops. Further information www.usdaw.org.uk/Help-Advice/ Coronavirus-Update/Advice-for- Usdaw-Members
NETWORK | Contribution Rate
BUILDING A UNION
FOR THE FUTURE
Network gives reps a guide to the single contribution
rate proposal that will be discussed at ADM in April
T
he executive council is proposing THE GROWTH OF SCALE C
to the union’s Annual Delegate MEMBERSHIP
Meeting that the union moves In 1999, just 34 per cent of Usdaw
to a single membership contribution members were on the lower Scale
rate for new members from July C rate. This has now increased to
2021. 53 per cent. Scale C members get
The union is in a strong position exactly the same service in terms of
but is facing some big challenges: advice and representation as those
n In the turbulent last 12 months, on Scale A, the only difference is in
Usdaw’s total membership has the level of cash benefits they can
fallen by 8,000. This is not a one- claim.
off. In 2019, the total number
of members fell by 20,000. The WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?
union is recruiting lots of new If this trend continues, the union
members – 57,000 new members could see reduced income and
joined in the last year and 84,000 higher costs leading inevitably to
new members joined in 2019 – decisions that would impact on
but total membership fell as we the support provided for reps
saw huge job losses across the and members such as training,
economy especially in the retail conferences or important
sector. campaigning work.
n Over recent years the union has
seen a greater proportion of new WHAT HAPPENS IF WE DO
members joining on the lower NOTHING?
Scale C rate. In the longer term Many unions who did not take
this is a problem as the lower prompt action have been forced
Scale C contribution rate does to merge and lose their identity in
not cover the full cost of providing order to survive. Others have faced
a full union service to those financial crisis and been forced to Usdaw recognises that members
members. take drastic cost-cutting measures. are under financial pressure but
n The union is increasingly We need to act now, so that we the Scale A rate of £2.48 a week
organising workers who work less can avoid crisis and cost cutting offers good value for money.
than traditional full-time hours. tomorrow. If all new members joined Going forward, the union will be
Many workers are working hours on Scale A, then the union finances reviewing the current package of
that change from week to week can remain healthy. benefits to make it even better
relying on additional hours to value for money. There are
make ends meet. The part-time/ THE PROPOSAL proposals to increase significantly
full-time membership subs split The proposal is to move to a some of the membership benefits
no longer reflects the reality of single contribution rate for new and grants including increases
today’s workforce. All Usdaw members from July 2021. The single to maternity/paternity/adoption
members, whatever hours they contribution rate would be Scale benefits, sickness grants, dispute
work, get the same first rate A. Existing Scale C members would benefits, funeral and industrial
service from the union. continue on Scale C. accident payments and permanent
12 January/February 2021disablement grants. the union isn’t forced into making The conference will be a two-
A single contribution rate will help decisions that will have a detrimental day event held on Sunday 25 and
keep the union finances healthy in impact for the future. Monday 26 April 2021, and will be
the long-term. Usdaw can continue video-streamed to delegates with
to build a stronger union and keep WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? a secure online voting system,
improving the service offered to The proposition for a single operated by an independent
members and reps. contribution rate will be discussed at external organisation, running
this year’s ADM. concurrently with conference
FUTURE PROOFING OUR UNION proceedings.
Usdaw has a duty to its members, ADM UPDATE A circular containing the full
and the members of the future, to Usdaw’s executive council has details of the conference, including
build a stronger union and protect endorsed the plan to have the a revised programme of dates has
it for the long term. Acting now Annual Delegate Meeting in April been sent to branches earlier in the
means the union will be acting from this year and for this to be an online month.
a position of strength to ensure event. www.usdaw.org.uk/adm2021
January/February 2021 13NETWORK | Freedom From Fear
PROTECT SHOPWORKERS
Following the shocking rise of abuse during the coronavirus pandemic,
Usdaw ramps up its campaign for better protection in law for shopworkers
O
ver the past few years the Petition for change General Secretary Paddy Lillis
union has seen an alarming In light of the continued increase “We were delighted to secure
increase in the levels of abuse in violence and abuse towards the necessary signatures on our
and violence towards shopworkers. shopworkers and the appalling petition to trigger a parliamentary
More recently, shocking results from situation they’ve faced leading up debate,” said Paddy. “This new select
an Usdaw survey carried out at the to and throughout the pandemic, committee inquiry, which we called
height of the coronavirus pandemic Usdaw general secretary Paddy for, is a very welcome opportunity to
reveal just how bad the situation has Lillis launched a House of Commons evidence the need for a ‘protection
become in the past six months. petition to lobby the Government of shopworkers’ law.
Throughout the outbreak, to protect retail staff. The union “It has been a terrible year for our
retail workers have been spat at, is calling on the Government to members, with incidents of abuse
threatened with being infected with create a specific offence of abusing, doubling during the pandemic.
coronavirus and physically assaulted threatening or assaulting a retail Retail workers, their friends, family
by customers while they have been worker with a penalty that acts and loved ones, are saying loud and
providing an essential service in very as a deterrent and makes clear clear that enough is enough, abuse
difficult circumstances. that abuse of retail workers is should never be just a part of the
Since the start of the outbreak, unacceptable. job.
the average retail worker has been The petition gained widespread “We were deeply disappointed by
assaulted, threatened or abused media attention in national and the Government’s initial response
every 6.5 days, more than double regional news outlets when it was to the petition, offering little more
the rate of incidents compared launched in August 2020 with Usdaw than sympathy. Unfortunately, they
to 2019. The evidence is clear. officials and reps making over 80 also objected to the Alex Norris’
Shopworkers are vulnerable and the appearances on TV and radio. protection of shopworkers bill in
current law doesn’t go far enough to Thanks to the hard work of the House of Commons. So we are
offer them the protection they need. Usdaw’s fantastic reps, activists and now looking for MPs to get behind
In 2003, Usdaw introduced its members, the petition has already retail staff, who are key workers
Freedom From Fear campaign in been signed by over 104,000 people providing essential services, and
response to members’ concerns which will now trigger a debate in help turn around the Government’s
about violence and abuse in retail. Parliament. opposition.
Since then the union has worked The petition is backed by 23 major “Usdaw has responded to this ‘call
with the public, employers, the retailers and the industry’s leading for evidence’ and encourage our
police, politicians and with the trade bodies, with research by the members on the frontline of retail
Government to achieve safety and Co-op showing its aims have public to participate in this year’s survey.
security improvements in stores, support as well. Shopworkers have a crucial role
raise the issues of neighbourhood Last October Usdaw, the British in our communities and that role
policing, retail crime and underage Retail Consortium, the Association must be valued and respected, they
sales. of Convenience Stores and the deserve the protection of the law.”
The union continues to lobby the Federation of Independent Retailers
Government to improve legislation jointly wrote to the chair of the home Freedom from Fear Survey
to protect shopworkers and those affairs select committee, Yvette Complete this year’s survey and
working in public-facing roles, Cooper MP, to call for an inquiry into encourage your colleagues to do the
including stiffer penalties for those the growing problem of violence and same. The experiences and views of
who assault workers. But the current abuse against shopworkers. retail workers show the extent of the
situation shows that the need for the This inquiry was announced in problem and help the union make a
union’s campaign is more pressing December and was welcomed by compelling case.
than ever Usdaw. www.usdaw.org.uk/respectsurvey
14 January/February 2021Union Learning Fund | NETWORK
GROUND BREAKING VICTORY
As Network went to print Usdaw won protection for Scottish
shopworkers in a new ground-breaking law. Usdaw’s
Freedom From Fear campaign has been calling for this
change for many years.
The union is delighted that the Scottish Parliament
unanimously voted to pass legislation – The Protection of
Workers (Retail and Age-restricted Goods and Services)
(Scotland) Bill – that would tackle growing violence, threats
and abuse against retail staff.
Usdaw’s Scottish divisional officer Stewart Forrest said:
“We are grateful for the support of MSPs and congratulate
Daniel Johnson MSP on securing ground-breaking legislation
to protect shopworkers from violence, threats and abuse.
We hope the UK Government will now follow suit to protect
shopworkers in the rest of the UK.
“Retail staff have been on the frontline throughout the
coronavirus crisis, helping to keep our communities fed,
despite the risks of contracting the virus. The final results of
our 2020 survey showed that nine in 10 shopworkers had
been abused last year. This new law firmly backs up Usdaw’s
clear message that abuse is not part of the job.
“We are now looking to work with the Scottish
Government, police and retailers to promote the new
law. We want criminals to understand that assaulting and
abusing shopworkers is unacceptable and will land them
with a stiffer sentence. Our hope is that this new legislation
will result in retail staff getting the respect they deserve.”
Usdaw general secretary Paddy Lillis said: “The Scottish
Parliament is leading the way on protection of shopworkers
by passing this Bill. It is a great result for our members in
Scotland, who will now have the protection of the law that
they deserve. We are grateful to Daniel Johnson for steering
this important legislation through the Parliament.
“We have been deeply disappointed with the UK
Government’s response to our campaign, offering little
more than sympathy and their objecting to protection
of shopworkers legislation. So we are looking for MPs to
support key workers across the retail sector and help turn
around the UK Government’s opposition.”
January/February 2021 15WHY WE NEED
TO SAVE THE
UNION LEARNING FUND
G
overnment plans to scrap all sorts of job-relevant learning and their new skills made them more
funding for union learning training, including basic literacy and effective in their current job.
at a time when jobs and numeracy, ICT skills, apprenticeships In addition, the money provided
industries are under threat from the and traineeships, vocational by the Government to support
coronavirus crisis and upskilling and training, continuing professional learners and projects through
retraining is more crucial than ever. development and many other the ULF is more than matched
Last year the Government informal and formal courses. by funding from other sources.
announced that it will be In 2019/2020 £9.6 million was
withdrawing all funding from the The positive effects of the Union generated by Usdaw, employers and
Union Learning Fund (ULF) from Learning Fund from partner providers/agencies.
March 2021. This decision only The Union Learning Fund delivers
affects the ULF in England. In Wales, an estimated net contribution to the The ULF and Usdaw
Scotland and Northern Ireland, economy of more than £1.4 billion as Government funding through
where devolved governments have a result of boosting jobs, wages and the Union Learning Fund is vital
responsibility for the ULF, funding productivity. in supporting Usdaw’s Lifelong
will continue. The benefits to individual learners, Learning initiatives, such as
many of whom may not have had workplace learning centres,
What is the Union Learning Fund? the best experience of primary mobile union learning reps and
The Union Learning Fund (ULF) was and secondary education, are promotional activity such as Usdaw’s
set up in 1998 to support workers overwhelmingly positive and include: ‘Checkout Learning’ campaign.
in accessing learning and training in n Over two-thirds (68 per cent) In the last financial year, Usdaw
workplaces. of learners with no previous engaged over 17,500 members in
The fund is worth £11 million per qualifications got a qualification. some form of learning.
year and around 200,000 workers n Four in five (80 per cent) said they For many of Usdaw’s members,
enter into learning or training with had developed skills that they this will have been their first
union support through the ULF and could transfer to a new job. engagement with any form of
the TUC. These learners undertake n Two in three (62 per cent) said learning since leaving school.
16 January/February 2021HELP US SAVE THE FUND BY:
SIGNING THE TUC PETITION opportunities. Upskilling workers can be directly
Sign the petition and ask everyone in your linked to gains in productivity.
workplace to sign it and share it on social media Ask your employer to write to the secretary of state
using the hashtag #SaveUnionLearning. for education Gavin Williamson or local MPs to talk
www.megaphone.org.uk/petitions/ about the benefits.
uk-gov-don-t-cut-union-learning
SPEAK TO YOUR AREA ORGANISER
EMAILING YOUR MP Contact your area organiser to see how you can
Email your MP and encourage others to do the help.
same by using the template at the link below.
Direct correspondence to MPs has proved to be TELL US YOUR STORIES
an incredibly effective tool on previous campaigns Usdaw wants to know how trade union learning
and we hope that as many members as possible opportunities have benefited you.
engage with the campaign. Email network@usdaw.org.uk to tell your story.
www.usdaw.org.uk/Campaigns/Union-
Learning-Fund/ULF-email-your-MP RAISE AWARENESS
Talk to your colleagues, family and friends about
GETTING SUPPORT FROM EMPLOYERS the Union Learning Fund. Talk about it on social
Employers see significant benefits from their media, write to your local newspaper or ring into a
employees who are undertaking lifelong learning local radio station.
Usdaw and Employers
Usdaw works collaboratively MICHAEL DUFFY TALKS ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF THE ULF
with over 20 major employers
to promote workplace learning Michael Duffy, a senior rep at Sainsbury’s Haydock has been working
across retail, distribution and tirelessly to save the Union Learning Fund. He has been encouraging
food manufacturing. Many of members to sign the petition and has written to his MP Lisa Nandy.
those employers have been I am 51 years old now and I consider myself to be reasonably
long term supporters of the intelligent, however I recognise that I wasted opportunities as a young
Union Learning Fund agenda adult. I was raised in a family that expected us to find work after leaving
and have committed to learning school, further education was seen as something only wealthy families
agreements with Usdaw including did. Even now, it is sad to see young adults taking up positions at my
Tesco, Next, DHL, Müller place of work whose upbringing is very similar to mine. Some don’t
Wisemans, Argos/Sainbury’s, understand their payslips and cannot calculate how much they have
McVities and CRL. earned or they miss opportunities because they cannot read the notice
boards. Some older colleagues haven’t seen their wage slips in over a
RETRAINING IS VITAL year since the company payslips went digital.
The Union Learning Fund is The Government must realise that it isn’t just the individual who is
an extremely effective tool going to miss out, it affects their families also. Education in English,
for reaching learners who are maths and digital inclusion must be made a Government priority.
unable to access Government
Sainsbury’s, with the support of the union learning fund, has been
supported training and learning
brilliant in authorising paid release in work’s time to help colleagues
opportunities.
take up learning opportunities.
Considering the current
I truly fear that cuts to the Union Learning Fund will
economic climate, retraining and
disproportionately affect working class people like me.
reskilling projects supported by
the ULF will be even more critical Please support our campaign.
in the near future.
January/February 2021 17NETWORK | Save the High Street
PROTECTING THE HEART
OF OUR TOWNS AND CITIES
Usdaw is calling for a new deal for all workers based around a £10 minimum
wage, guaranteed hours, better sick pay, job security and a voice at work
T
he end of the last year was a As Arcadia went into help to the struggling industry.
devastating month for the high administration Usdaw called on the Usdaw general secretary Paddy
street as Debenhams went into administrators to engage with the Lillis said: “We welcome the support
liquidation and Arcadia went into union to save jobs and to ensure of Keir Starmer for our call for the
administration putting thousands that staff were treated fairly. Government to work with retail
more jobs at risk. Following the collapse of Arcadia, employers and trade unions to
During the summer when which could potentially result in develop a recovery plan for an
Debenhams went into 25,000 job losses, leader of the industry that was already struggling
administration the administrators Labour Party Keir Starmer quizzed before this appalling pandemic
refused to engage with Usdaw the Prime Minister Boris Johnson wreaked havoc on our high streets.
and redundancies were made by on the desperate state of the retail “Over 200,000 retail job losses
conference call, with no meaningful industry. and 20,000 store closures in the last
consultation or proper notice Unfortunately, the Prime Minister year are absolutely devastating and
period, as required by law. offered no roadmap or additional lay bare the scale of the challengeSave the High Street | NETWORK that the industry faces. and city centres. The Government landlords and tenants is required. “Each one of those job losses is a must take this seriously; we need n Reform of UK tax law to ensure personal tragedy for the individual a recovery plan to get the industry that companies pay their fair worker and store closures are back on its feet.” share of tax through tackling tax scarring our high streets and avoidance and the use of offshore communities. RETAIL RECOVERY PLAN havens, with the aim of creating a “What retail needs is a joined-up Usdaw calls for a recovery plan to level playing field between online strategy of unions, employers and be developed with trade unions and and high street retailers. Government working together to retail employers that includes: n Funding for local authorities develop a recovery plan. n Fundamental reform of business so they can invest in their local “Usdaw has long called for an rates. The Government committed economy, transport networks and industrial strategy for retail, as part to a review of business rates high streets. We cannot revive of our ‘Save our Shops’ campaign, earlier this year, but assurance our high streets if core services to help a sector that was already is needed that this will not be continue to be undermined. struggling before the coronavirus delayed further. n Investment in skills for retail emergency. n An immediate and comprehensive workers, including through “We desperately need issues review of rental values and lease union learning and high-quality like rents, rates and taxation, to arrangements. In the short term, apprenticeships. This should create a level playing field between the moratorium on evictions for include an in-depth assessment high streets and online retail to be shop rent arrears needs to be of emerging trends and potential addressed. extended and retail businesses skills shortages/gaps within the “With a further 6-week national that are struggling should receive sector. lockdown starting in January, which Government support to help n A new deal for retail, distribution includes the closure of non-food with paying the rents which and home delivery workers based retail in all parts of England, the will become liable when the around a real living wage and need for a retail recovery plan moratorium comes to an end. In guaranteed hours. becomes even more urgent. the medium term, a rebalancing For more information visit: “Retail is crucial to our town of the relationship between www.usdaw.org.uk/sos
NETWORK | Celebrating reps
EXCEPTIONAL
ACTIVISTS
Celebrating the reps who continue to protect workers’
rights and raise spirits in the midst of a pandemic
I
ncredible activists across the union so is more than happy for me
country have spent the last to get involved and recruit.
12 months giving their all to “I’m also health and safety rep but
support their members, colleagues, Sainsbury’s have been pretty good
neighbours and those struggling at making the store safe for staff and
during the pandemic. In this issue customers, so I’ve not really had to
we celebrate two more of Usdaw’s intervene. Occasionally the store
amazing activists. can feel quite busy and if staff feel at
risk we just step off the shop floor if
TREVOR DOWNES we can.
Active rep Trevor has continued to “Unfortunately, I have noticed
support and represent members a rise in mental health problems
over the past 12 months and among staff during the pandemic.
promote the union, despite Staff are struggling, whether
coronavirus. If a member needs it’s because they can’t see their Trevor Downes
representing in his patch, Trevor will families or they’re anxious about
be there anytime night or day. the situation. It’s very difficult. stepped up to support management
“I’ve always been passionate Luckily management are very throughout the pandemic to ensure
about trade unions and protecting understanding so I hope staff feel staff and customers are safe.
workers’ rights so when I was asked like they have that support if they Mark, who has only been a rep
to become a rep in 2018, I jumped at need it. Hopefully soon we’ll be for a year, has proved instrumental,
the chance,” said Trevor, 55, who has able to get some campaigns off continuing to represent members
worked at Sainsbury’s in Godalming the ground to raise awareness and recruiting nearly 60 members in
for the past four years. “I completed around issues like mental health. just one week during a recruitment
Academy1 in 2019 and started This would’ve been a good year for campaign.
Acadmey2 in 2020 but unfortunately a Freedom From Fear campaign. “We have a really good working
it was cancelled because of the All we can do right now is keep relationship with management
pandemic. It was such a shame. supporting members and hope the which works well for all parties
I met some great people and I vaccine works out. involved,” said Mark, 46, who has
was really excited to get stuck in. “I did actually contract Covid-19 been a dotcom driver at Tesco
Hopefully we can pick up where we in late 2020. Me, my son and my for seven years. “Even before
left off at some point in the future. daughter had it, so we had to isolate Covid-19, we would meet weekly
“I have managed to do some with my wife, although she never with management and they would
stand-down between lockdowns. had any symptoms. I felt rough for tell us about changes in policy and
I limited myself to four stores and three or four days and suffered from anything that we needed to know
picked up all the new starters as headaches, shivers and chest pains. to better support the staff. They
they came through, I even managed It was very scary. Thankfully we all have always been transparent
to sign up a few new reps in stores recovered and are all doing well.” and worked with us for the
that didn’t have them. wellbeing of the staff. It’s been the
“Back in my own store I’ve MARK PALMER same throughout the pandemic.
attended all the inductions, socially It’s been a busy time for Mark Management are open and honest
distanced of course. My manager and the team at Tesco Ballymena with us about any information and
is very supportive and values the in Northern Ireland who have updates that are being fed down
20 January/February 2021Celebrating reps| NETWORK
HELPING YOU IN YOUR
ROLE AS REP
Where to find information
Usdaw website and enews
For everything you need including
sections on legal advice, workers’
rights, health and safety, news,
training opportunities, upcoming
events and campaigns. You can also
download informative leaflets and
posters for your noticeboard and sign
up for email updates to hear the latest
news from the union.
Visit www.usdaw.org.uk
Social media
As an Usdaw rep we recommend that
you follow UsdawUnion on Facebook,
Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and Flickr.
It’s a great way to keep up to date
with news, campaigns, events, rights
at work, competitions and offers
exclusive to Usdaw members. You can
also share pictures of your campaigns
Mark Palmer and events with the union.
from head office so that we are more aggressive towards retail Local office
prepared and have the knowledge workers who are just trying to If you need support or guidance
to support members in the best keep the country fed during the in your role as rep, whether you’re
way we can. We work together. pandemic. If staff feel threatened not sure how to handle a problem,
“At the start of the pandemic they know to speak to the nearest or you need advice on how to run
it was all hands on deck. As the manager or Usdaw rep for support. a campaign, then don’t hesitate to
demand for online deliveries “As a team of reps we’re still very contact your local Usdaw office where
increased so did our workforce. We much involved in Covid-related the union’s staff will be happy to help.
went from having 60 to 104 dotcom business in store, particularly as
staff overnight because we were so we’re now in another national We want to hear from you
busy. The managers relied heavily lockdown. It’s an ongoing challenge Here at Network magazine we
on the reps to help them roll out to respond to new Government love hearing about what reps and
and regulate new health and safety guidance and ensure we’re members have been up to in and
procedures to ensure the staff adhering to all the rules. out of their workplaces. If you’ve got
were safe. For example, if the store “I’ve been busy outside of work pictures to share even better! We
got too busy we would report back too. I’m on the board of governors want to hear about campaigns and
and they would limit the number at the local primary school so that events, wins for your members, your
of customers. There was never any takes up a lot of my time and I top tips, reps and members who are
argument about it. We also made also play a very active role in the going the extra mile to support local
sure that staff were clear on new community. As you can imagine causes, anything that you think would
Government measures that were that’s been non-stop too. make a good story and that Usdaw
being implemented and how the “It’s been a testing 12 months members would like to read about. So
company were responding. but I think staff, management please get in touch.
“We’ve also continued to take and the reps have really worked
a zero-tolerance approach to together and done a great job in Email network@usdaw.org.uk
violence and abuse in store. making sure Tesco Ballymena is as
Customers have definitely become safe as possible.”
January/February 2021 21NETWORK | Universal credit
HELP WITH YOUR FINANCES
Network guides reps through the basics of universal credit and outlines
where they can signpost members who might be having money worries
L
ast year when the pandemic for living costs. It can be paid to Can I get help with my mortgage?
struck, millions of families people in or out of work. You cannot get any help with your
were forced on to universal mortgage payments if you (or your
credit. You can claim if you are: partner) have any earned income, no
As the country endures a third n Aged 18 or over (although there matter how low your earnings are.
national lockdown, reps may have are exceptions for some 16 and
members approaching them for 17-year-olds). How do I claim?
advice and support. Network guides n Under the qualifying age for In most cases, claims for universal
reps through what universal credit is pension credit. If you are a couple credit must be made online at
and how to claim it. and only one of you is over www.gov.uk/universalcredit
Please be aware that the rules pension credit age, then you will If you do not have access to the
governing entitlement to benefits have to claim universal credit. internet you can claim via the
including universal credit are n In Great Britain. telephone service. The helpline
complex and subject to frequent n Not in education. number is 0800 328 5644.
change. n Accept a ‘claimant commitment’.
How will I be paid?
What is universal credit? What is a ‘claimant If you live in England and Wales
Universal credit (UC) is a means- commitment’? Your award is assessed over an
tested benefit for people of working This may include requirements assessment period of one calendar
age. It has replaced the following about what you will do to look for month beginning from the date of
benefits: work or increase the number of your claim. Universal credit should
n Income Support. hours you work. If you are doing normally be paid directly into your
n Income-based Job Seeker’s some work, you will normally be account within seven days of the
Allowance. expected to search for work for at last day of the monthly assessment
n Income-related Employment and least 35 hours a week (less if you are period.
Support Allowance. a parent or carer). If you live in Scotland
n Housing Benefit. You have the option of twice-
n Child Tax Credit and Working Tax How much will I get? monthly payments instead of once
Credit. When calculating how much a month. You can also ask for the
These benefits have become universal credit people will get housing costs element to be paid
known as ‘legacy benefits’. If you are a basic rate called the ‘standard directly to your landlord instead of
currently receiving a legacy benefit allowance’ is included and extra you.
you can continue to do so until you amounts for people in different If you live in Northern Ireland
claim or are transferred to UC. You circumstances are paid on top. Things are slightly different in
may be worse off on UC than on a Northern Ireland as, unlike the rest
‘legacy benefit’, particularly if you Does it include housing costs? of the UK, unless you ask to be
are disabled or have a disabled Universal credit can include a paid your universal credit monthly,
child because UC doesn’t include housing costs element if you are you will get two payments a month
extra amounts specifically for renting, are an owner occupier or instead of one.
disabled adults and the amount for if you pay service charges. If you
a disabled child is lower. are a private tenant or you are in Do I have to work a minimum
the socially rented sector and your number of hours?
Who gets it? home has more bedrooms than There are no minimum hours of
Universal credit is a benefit for both the rules allow, your rent is either work to claim universal credit, (as
single people and couples on a low restricted or your housing costs opposed to the tax credits system),
income to provide financial support reduced by a percentage. however you are expected to try to
22 January/February 2021Universal credit | NETWORK
earn at least the equivalent of 35 for your payment, you can apply Group, new rules came into effect
hours a week at the minimum wage for a short-term advance, although in November 2020 that enable
(unless you are the primary carer for it will have to be paid back later the DWP to reallocate a ‘double
a child aged under five, a disabled through your UC payments. payment’ of monthly earnings to
worker or a carer). See the following article from the two different assessment periods
Money Advice Service: however this won’t happen
My earnings vary each month, www.moneyadviceservice.org. automatically. You will need to let
what happens to my universal uk/en/articles/universal-credit- the DWP know, in advance if at all
credit payment? advance-payments-and-other-help possible, of any four-weekly period
Employers report all earnings in which you are likely to receive two
directly to HMRC where your I am paid four-weekly, will this sets of earnings.
universal credit will be calculated, affect my payment? Although the DWP has said they
based on your household’s wages Universal credit is assessed on will automatically reassess universal
in the previous month. If your your income received during each credit entitlement in the assessment
income varies each month, your month. If you are paid four-weekly, period after the one in which a
next universal credit payment will you receive 13 pay packets in a year, claimant loses all entitlement due
increase if your earnings drop or and in one monthly assessment to a double payment of earnings
reduce if your wages increase. period, two of your pay packets and will re-enroll claimants in this
may be assessed, rather than position, it is a good idea to inform
When will I get my first payment? just one – meaning your universal the UC office that you are re-claiming
When you start to claim universal credit payment that month will be UC from the following month if you
credit, there is at least a five-week considerably reduced. are not able to raise the problem
waiting period when you will receive Following a successful legal with them in advance.
no support. If you are experiencing challenge by the campaigning www.usdaw.org.uk/Help-Advice/
hardship because of having to wait organisation, Child Poverty Action Money-Benefits
FURTHER ADVICE AND INFORMATION
n Citizens Advice Bureau: www.citizensadvice.org.uk n Money Advice Service: 0800 138 7777
n Gov UK - Information on government services, www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk
including money, tax, benefits, disability, employment n National Debtline: 0808 808 4000
and carers. Visit: www.entitledto.co.uk www.nationaldebtline.orgYou can also read
