The election for the SGE’s 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 Service Group Executive (SGE) is elected by our members every two years.
The election timetable and procedures (PDF) were agreed by the union’s NEC at a meeting on 1 December 2021.
Who is eligible to vote?
All full members who were on the union’s membership register as of 28 January 2022, will be entitled to vote in this election.
When is it happening?
The candidate application period runs from 10 January 2022 to 5pm on 11 February 2022.
The nominating period for branches and other nominating bodies runs from 10 January 2022 to 5pm on 11 February 2022.
The member ballot will open on 28 April 2022 and closes on 25 May 2022. The results will be announced on 10 June 2022.
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 SGEs you elect will make important decisions about the future of our union, 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 that 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 document if you’re going to do this.
But what about coronavirus?
The current pandemic certainly presents unique challenges for this election, with reduced access to some workplaces meaning less direct contact with members.
Is there any support?
As usual, there is a ballot helpline. The helpline will open on 5 May. Phone: 0800 0 857 857. Text phone: 0800 0 967 968.
Other information
- Read the election procedures
- SGE election page for members
- Or contact the member liaison unit on 020 7121 5399 or email: elections@unison.co.uk
What happens next?
Voting packs will be sent to members’ homes direct from CES.
If you’ve not received yours by 5 May 2022, then contact UNISONdirect on the number above.