Union learning representatives

Union learning representatives (ULRs) are union reps who promote learning in their workplace. They have four main responsibilities:

• giving support and encouragement to members who want to review and broaden their current range of skills
• raising the profile of training and development in the workplace by providing advice, encouragement and information to members about a range of learning initiatives
• helping to identy learning needs and provision by acting as a link between members and the union
• working with local union committees on learning issues that need to be raised with management.

ULRs have got statutory recognition under the Employment Act 2002. This means they have got equivalent status to health and safety representatives, which includes a legal right to paid time off to carry out their duties.

Resources for ULRs

See below for a list of downloadable ULR resources. Some of our ULR training materials are also available online. In addition, we have a package of dyslexia resources available on CD. Contact Learning Services if you would like a copy.

Are you interested in becoming a ULR?

We have already made a good start, but there is still a lot of work to do, and support from branches will be vital.

What can branches do?

• Provide a home for ULRs within the branch. Some branches are amending their rules so that ULRs are entitled to to a seat on the branch council. But not all ULRs will wish to have this level of involvement. The aim may be to have a network of ULRs in each branch to advise individuals. A ULR branch councillor could play a co-ordinating role and take the lead on collective negotiations/discussions on training and development. The precise arrangements will vary according to circumstances and over time as we establish a larger network of ULRs.
  

• Consider how best to work with other unions on this issue. Other unions' ULR training programmes are likely to cover some of the same ground, but Prospect's programme focuses on the particular needs of professional/specialist members and on the use of electronic communications media to support and sustain their work. However, there may be scope for common initiatives, for example to establish (or re-establish) joint training and development committees.

• Let us know of success stories or useful resources so we can publicise them more widely.

If your branch would like to promote discussion of these issues, we are happy to respond to requests for speakers at branch conferences or other meetings. Equally, if you have more specific feedback or questions, please contact Learning Services.

Downloadable resources