Education and training is essential if the branch is to have active representatives and a fully represented and informed membership. To achieve this a number of courses are on offer provided by UNISON and other providers of training to trade unionists.

Some of these are designed specifically for our activists and some for lay members. All are enjoyable, informative and give the opportunity to meet members of other branches of UNISON and other trade unions and share experiences.

UNISON Regional courses are run throughout the year and are either residential or non-residential depending on the duration of the course and the subject content. The full programme can be viewed on the Regional website at www.unison-yorks.org.uk following the link to the Education Programme and application forms can be downloaded. Or you can talk to someone in the Regional Education Office on 0845 355 0845 or contact the Branch Office on 01422 393075. Some UNISON courses are run on a national basis and details can be found at www.unison.org.uk and follow the link to Learning And Organising Services.

Lay members are members of UNISON who do not hold any activist position but who are interested in the activities of UNISON with respect to the rank and file membership. Most of these courses are provided by the Region and apply in the main to those members who identify with one of the four Self Organised Groups (SOGs) – Black members, Disabled members, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender members or Women members. Details can be viewed on the Regional website at www.unison-yorks.org.uk following the link to the Education Programme and application forms can be downloaded. Or you can talk to someone in the Regional Education Office on 0845 355 0845 or contact the Branch Office on 01709 376933.

APPLICATIONS
All applications for courses must be submitted via the Branch Office as they have to be endorsed by a Branch Officer. Applications will be then forwarded on your behalf to the appropriate training provider and copies kept by the Branch Office in case of query and so that a record of activist training can be maintained. Note that applications not endorsed are often returned and this can delay a place on a course being confirmed or accepted. Applications should be returned as early as possible to the Branch Office.

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EXPENSES
All courses are free to members as courses costs are paid by the Branch. Any travel or subsistence expenses are paid in accordance with the Branch’s Education & Training Policy. Details can be obtained from the Branch Office on 01422 393075.

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CRECHE
Crèche facilities are not always provided on training courses so check beforehand with the training provider. Any care arrangements are the responsibility of the member undertaking training.