An election for the next general secretary of our union is underway. What is happening, when and why is voter turnout important?
Here’s our guide to everything you need to know.
Why is this happening?
The general secretary is elected by our members every five years.
The election timetable and procedures were agreed by the union’s NEC at a meeting on 15 July 2025.
Who is eligible to vote?
All full members who were on the union’s membership register as of 28 July 2025 will be entitled to vote in this election.
When is it happening?
The candidate application period runs from 20 August 2025 to 5pm on 26 September 2025.
The nominating period for branches and other nominating bodies runs from 20 August 2025 to 5pm on 26 September 2025.
The member ballot will open on 28 October 2025 and closes on 25 November 2025. The results will be announced on 17 December 2025.
Who is running the election?
The Member Liaison Unit runs the election. Civica Election Services (CES) is the returning officer and the independent scrutineer.
Why is this election important?
UNISON is run for and by its members through its democratic and lay structures.
All of our elections are important, as they allow the union to function in the best interests of our members.
The general secretary is the most senior role in the union. They represent UNISON when talking to the media, other unions, employers and to Parliament. So, it’s important that as many members as possible have their say.
What can I do?
As our activists, you have a role in encouraging participation in our elections – this is not about supporting particular candidates, but providing general information about the ballot, when it opens, why it matters and encouraging members to vote.
The more people who vote, the better for our democracy, and the better the union can serve our members.
Please note, it’s not about promoting one or more candidates. There are strict rules to ensure that UNISON branches or other nominating bodies don’t use any funds, property or resources to campaign for any particular candidate in the election. The exception to this is if a nominating body has nominated a candidate. In this case, you can advise your members of this nomination via your usual channel(s) of communications. Check the election procedures if you’re going to do this.
Other information
- Read the election procedures and timings
- Or contact the member liaison unit on 020 7121 5399or email: gs25election@unison.co.uk
What happens next?
Voting packs will be sent to members’ homes direct from CES.
If you’ve not received yours by 19 November 2025, then contact UNISONdirect on the number above.