Our activists

Our activists

Without our volunteer activists, UNISON would not be able to function. They carry out vital, day-to-day roles, supporting members in their workplaces, in self-organised and interest groups and across our branches. 

Trained by UNISON, they form the vital links between our members, their employers, other UNISON representatives and our union nationally. 

Workplace reps 

A workplace rep is the first person a member speaks to when they face problems at work.

They work closely with members to resolve problems and improve working conditions. Workplace roles vary, ranging from workplace contact to elected steward, environmental rep and health and safety rep.

The workplace reps listen to members’ concerns, give information and advice, accompany members to meetings with employers, act as spokespeople, recruit and organise members, run surveys and ballots and plan and publicise campaigns.

They train with UNISON, belong to a local UNISON branch, and raise awareness of employment issues with others in UNISON, locally and nationally. 

Branch officers and reps

Branches must elect some members as officers to fulfil core roles. Branch officers meet monthly and are responsible for all branch business. Branches also encourage self-organised groups to work for fairness and equality for under-represented people in our membership. They may also create other roles according to their rules.

Core branch officer roles include: chair, secretary, treasurer, as well as roles covering topics such as health and safety, education, communications and welfare.