They have joined a 'union' called 'Voice'. School Support Staff are ,of course, entitled to join any trade union they wish and whatever union they join is secondary to the main point, that all staff should be in a trade union.
But staff need to be aware of some of the follwing points:
- UNISON is by far the biggest trade union representing all School Support Staff, from Teaching Assistants and Technicians to Catering Staff, Cleaners and Caretakers.
- In Cardiff County UNISON represents one thousand members, giving us great strength in negotiations, to secure a better deal for Support Staff members.
- UNISON sits on the National Joint Council which negotiates pay, terms and conditions for schools staff- 'Voice' has no place on the NJC.
- UNISON is leading the trades unions in direct negotiation with the UK Government and the Welsh Assembly in negotiating a new agreement to give schools support staff similar terms and conditions to teachers- 'Voice' has no place at this table.
- 'Voice' is not a recognised Trade Union in Cardiff County and therefore has no negotiation rights.
In addition, UNISON, as a locally recognised trade union has its subscriptions deducted directly from your pay, on a monthly basis- 'Voice' is not recognised and so cannot have this facility- staff in Cardiff who have joined 'Voice' have to pay their fees for the whole year up front!
When approached by someone to join a trade union- you need to know that the trade union you join and give your hard earned money to actually has a voice - is recognised by your employer and can play a part in negotiating your pay, terms and conditions. Stay with a genuine trade union which really can and does work for you- join UNISON.
Mark Turner
Branch Secretary
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