Branches
UNISON has over 750 branches. They support members at work and negotiate on pay and bargaining
What is a branch
Branches are locally organised groups of members. Some are made up of members working for one employer, such as a council, NHS Trust, police force, university or utility company. Most branches support members working for a number of employers that provide similar services in one geographical area.
Every UNISON member belongs to one of our branches. Branches listen to our members, represent them and involve them in their campaigns.
Workplaces with a high proportion of workers who are UNISON members have a stronger voice. They are more likely to win campaigns that result in better lives for their members and other workers.
Branches must have at least one meeting for members every year. This is usually their annual general meeting.
How branches are run
Branch roles
Branches must elect some members as officers to fulfil core roles. They may create other roles according to their rules.
Branch officers make up the branch committee. They are responsible for all branch business, and meet monthly. Members can put themselves forward for election to carry out different roles within their branch.
Branch staff
Most branches have a dedicated office and may employ staff to run it and support branch work.
Some branch secretaries volunteer to carry out employment responsibilities for branch staff. UNISON provides employment advice to support branches with this.
How branches organise around members
Member groups
Branches are encouraged to set up member groups to challenge discrimination at work and in our public services.
These groups assess and promote equality for under-represented groups such as women, Black members, LGBT+ members, disabled members, young members and retired members.
These groups can elect officers to their branch committee.
Branch sections
Large branches can structure their branch in sections to help members organise more effectively.
These sections reflect the employers or the organisation structures that members work within. Representatives from each section can sit on the branch committee, making sure the branch’s priorities and campaigns are informed by the experiences of all members.