I’m proud that UNISON has made 2019 the year of the young worker. All too often we hear that young people aren’t interested in trade unionism, yet our union has repeatedly shown that when we reach out to young workers, and take their concerns and their issues on board, they can become passionate trade unionists.
That’s why it was so good to see UNISON Cymru Wales – who have a strong track record organising young workers, making good progress with their #RespectYourYouth Charter.
UNISON young members were at the Senedd last week to witness Careers Wales and Cardiff Council signing up to become the first two employers in Wales to adopt the Charter, and were joined by UNISON member and First Minister Mark Drakeford who encouraged other employers and politicians to follow suit.
This is especially important as Wales has one of the highest levels of youth unemployment in the UK. So it’s great to see the needs of young workers being taken on board, fought for and winning the support of employers.
As we continue to grow as a union, getting young members more involved will continue to be a priority – the #RespectYourYouth Charter launched in Wales is a great example of how our union can do that.