Non-contribution to Pension Schemes by Employers

We note with concern the proposals currently being considered by this ‘Socialist Government’ that employees may be permitted to work to 70 in order to provide adequate pension provisions for their retirement! This comes against a background of over 200 companies closing their final salary scheme in 2002 alone, and the knowledge that Energy Companies […]

Discrimination against part-time staff in the electricity supply pension scheme

The ruling determined by the House of Lords, that the Electricity Supply Pension Schemes had discriminated against part-timers by denying them access to the pension scheme, means that may UNISON members will see their pensions fully restored. This is undoubtedly excellent news, but requires positive action by our Employers. As this action is not forthcoming, […]

Right to Care Campaign

In November 2001, UNISON, with a number of other organisations, launched the Right to Care Campaign. The aims of the Campaign are as follows: 1)that the Government must introduce personal and nursing care that is free at the point of use and funded from general taxation; 2)that this care should be the entitlement of everyone, […]

Fair Pensions for All

Conference notes that members of the House of Commons have agreed to amend their pension scheme and among the changes are benefits for surviving unmarried partners albeit the benefits have only been extended by requiring an increase in contributions. UNISON has campaigned for a similar extension of benefits in the public service pension schemes where […]

Rule C.2.6 Retired Members

C.2.6.1 delete “immediately”. Add new sub-paragraph: “C.2.6.2Persons in paid employment in areas where UNISON does not organise, eligible for retired membership as set out in C.2.6.1, can apply for retired membership when they cease to be in paid employment.” Renumber old sub-paragraph C.2.6.2 to C.2.6.3 and in second sentence delete “only” Add new sub-paragraphs: “C.2.6.4They […]

Fair Representation in Conference Delegations

Conference notes that this is the third year in which the National Executive Council exercising its powers under Rule D.1.3 has required that: 1)branches with three or more conference delegates send at least one low paid delegate and that 2)branches with four or more conference delegates send at least one young delegate. Conference applauds the […]

Prostate Cancer

Conference is concerned about the increase in prostate cancer every year and demands that prostate screening should be made available to men of all ages and that representations be made through all appropriate channels as a matter of urgency. In addition UNISON should arrange for appropriate materials to be distributed to UNISON branches to highlight […]

The European Union

Conference notes the grievous consequences of the European Union’s Stability Pact and the Maastricht Treaty convergence terms for unemployment, reduced public spending and deepening economic recession across the Eurozone, and congratulates the National Executive Council for its leading role in the developing labour movement campaign against British membership of the euro. Conference also notes the […]

Regional Cost of Living Supplement

National Delegate Conference reaffirms UNISON’s support for equity of access to high quality public services for all citizens. In particular we oppose any postcode lottery in service provision, which systematically disadvantages citizens in particular geographical areas. Likewise UNISON must oppose any postcode lottery in the living standards of public servants in general and UNISON members […]

Charter for Workers’ Rights

Conference deplores the continuing violation of international laws by the UK Government and regrets the fact that the UK framework of trade union rights was once again condemned by the International Labour Organisation in June 2002 and by the European Court of Human Rights in July 2002. UNISON believes that without an effective voice through […]

A Vision for Education

The issue and challenges facing the UK’s education system continue to be of concern to this union. Whilst Conference acknowledges the promise of more money for the education system as a whole, too many of our children are still failing to reach their full potential. Participation rates beyond 16 are marked by social inequality. Years […]

Public Sector Pay

Conference welcomes the 2002 Budget and Third Comprehensive Spending Review which committed the UK Government to sustained long-term investment in public services, thus reversing a 30 year trend of austerity, decline and public spending cuts. However Conference notes with concern the increasing pressure in Bank of England, government, private sector and media circles in support […]

Ten Years On – Investing in our Future

Conference celebrates UNISON’s forthcoming tenth anniversary on 1 July 2003 and acknowledges the achievements of our union in campaigning for fair pay and conditions for all workers, for the rights of trade union members, for our campaigns against racism, sexism and disabilism and international trade unionism. We must now make the next ten years a […]