Tuesday, February 28, 2023

35 Best Labor Blogs and Websites - John's Labour Blog

 

It was nice to get this notification this evening via twitter "Congrats @grayee Your blog has been selected as one of the Best Labor Blogs on the web by @_feedspot".

"The best Labor blogs from thousands of blogs on the web and ranked by traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness".

It seems that I am number 13 out of 35 (unlucky for some) just below Labour Party NEC member Luke https://lukeakehurst.blogspot.com/

I have no idea what criteria was used to make this ranking but after an extremely frustrating Labour Movement day (don't ask) it was good to get some positive feedback. It may indeed help with some forthcoming union and political campaigns. Watch this space.

Sunday, February 26, 2023

Social housing bosses need formal qualifications? Yes but....

Today the Government has announced that it will change the law to make it compulsory for Social Housing Managers to hold formal qualifications in a similar way to social workers and teachers. The reasons given were "both Grenfell and the death of Awaab Ishak showed the "devastating consequences of residents inexcusably being let down by poor performing landlords who consistently failed to listen to them"

Personally, I would support this requirement. I am a London Councillor and work in social housing. I happen to have a post graduate diploma in Housing and I am a Practitioner member of the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIOH). I would also agree with the housing campaigner, Kwajo Tweneboa, that this should not be just senior managers but all housing officers should hold these qualifications.

But if it is right for Housing Associations and Council Housing managers, what about the huge Private Rental sector? A sector well known for problems regarding damp and fire safety. Would this requirement also apply to the private sector managers who maintain ministry of defence" properties plagued also by damp or those who provide often substandard homes for Asylum seekers.

Damp is often caused by overcrowding and/or fundamental design faults. I often see families of 5 or 6 living in a one bedroom flat with no adequate washing or drying facilities. Where is the money to build the new homes desperately needed to overcome overcrowding and rebuild defective housing?

It is going to cost a huge amount of money to really tackle fire safety, damp and mould. As well as making our housing stock green and low carbon. At a time of below inflation rent caps (welcome obviously to tenants) where is this money going to come from?

The simple truth of the matter is that many Housing Associations and Councils are already being forced to compromise on management standards in order to "sweat" their assets (cut costs) to find the funds to build more affordable housing due to grossly inadequate state provision. 

My final point for now is that since there is little meaningful, independant and democratic tenant representation, who will make sure that landlords will actually "listen" in the future?

Saturday, February 25, 2023

6 reasons to join UNISON

Heart UNISON is part of Heart Unions Week, the TUC’s annual event to celebrate unions, to make sure everyone knows why we’re vital at work, and to encourage everyone to join one. Here are 6 reasons why it’s a better time than ever to join UNISON.


Google https://joining.unison.org.uk/join-unison-today/ or scan below



Friday, February 24, 2023

COVID-19 (again)

 

I been feeling under the weather lately and felt that I had a "lergie" (winter cold) coming on. This afternoon I was supposed to be carrying some joint visits with Police to see some tenants. So I thought that I better do a COVID test but felt pretty sure I didn't have it. I had brought some tests a while ago from Boots. I think they cost £8 for a pack of 4 tests. 

It was the "nose only" one which is much better than the throat swabs. To my astonishment it showed positive very quickly. I am double vaccinated with Oxford/AstraZeneca, then had Pfizer booster in 2021 and Moderna in 2022.  

I had COVID during Christmas 2021, which was pretty unpleasant due to a very painful sore throat but so far, the symptoms this time are mild and just like a common cold - tiredness, blocked nose, sneezing, slight cough, slight temperature etc. The vaccinations don't stop you from catching COVID but they are very effective at protecting people from being caused serious harm. Effective does not mean 100% protection.

While I am fed up at being stuck indoors until Tuesday, according to the NHS COVID app (I believe it is okay to go outside for fresh air in the open as long as you avoid people but take a mask) I am pleased that I did the test because of possible contact with vulnerable people who have an underlying health condition. 

Many thanks to my ward colleague, John Whitworth, for agreeing to cover my Councillor surgery tomorrow morning but it seems that I will miss Full Council meeting on Monday. 

Thursday, February 23, 2023

Local authority pension fund investment in affordable housing

This meeting of the APPG for "Local Authority Pension Funds was focused on local authority pension fund investment in social and affordable housing. To address the issue and whether there is a case for doing more, the event heard from four speakers: Cllr John Gray (Vice-Chair, Local Authority Pension Fund Forum); Paddy Dowdall (Assistant Executive Director at Greater Manchester Pension Fund); Helen Collins (Head of Affordable Housing, Savills); and John Butler (Finance Policy Lead, National Housing Federation)". Chaired bt APPG Chair, Clive Betts MP.

Check out YouTube of yesterday's panel debate/Q&A. An interesting panel and some great questions. Hopefully, my "ums" and "ers" were not too annoying (and to my continuel surprise on video my accent is still so northern/scouse after all these years down south). 

My message was that Council pensions funds can invest in so called "Affordable" Housing and get a appropriate return from sub market (60-80%)  rents which are good quality, low carbon, well managed homes but low income families in high rent areas need social rents (40-50% of private rents) or they will spend their lives on benefits and in poverty. 

To provide social rents you need subsidy. In the main, this has to come from the government of the day. You cannot expect tenants to receive inadequate housing services from their landlord in order to provide subsidy to build new homes. 

I posed the question at the end of the debate on whether housing associations, advisors and "for profit" provisors, understand that in all probability, in 18 months time or so, there will be a new government in power (not taken for granted for a moment) which may be quite different from the one in power for the previous 15 years? I think not. 

Wednesday, February 22, 2023

Vote Denise and John your UNISON Community Candidates for UNISON's NEC Elections 2023 - ballot papers drop 17/4


Many, many thanks to all the 40 plus branches that nominated us. Next step is verification of these nominations, any possible appeals then physical ballot papers due to drop at your home address on 17/4/23. 

If any branches are hosting hustings let us know or if members want further information check out https://www.facebook.com/JohnandDenise4CommunityNEC/

Tuesday, February 21, 2023

Prospective Parliamentary Candidates: Greater London Labour Link

 

This evening I interviewed prospective candidates wishing to be nominated by UNISON Labour Link to a Greater London Parliamentary seat. Labour Link (used to be called the APF) is the Political Fund which is affiliated to the Labour Party, which UNISON members can choose to join. 

This was in my role as the elected lay Chair of the Greater London UNISON Labour Link Committee and I was assisted by the elected lay Vice Chair, Yvonne Green.  We were supported by the Greater London Political Secretary, UNISON full time official, Joel Bodmer, acting as Procedure Secretary.

We have had a pretty good "success" rate so far in London, of nominating our members who have since become Parliamentary candidates. 

There was a number of excellent candidates interviewed tonight via MS teams and there was one who was successful. 

All UNISON Labour Link members (normally with at least 6 months membership) are eligible to make an expression of interest to the Political Secretary about which seat the are considering, then when the Labour Party decide to start the nomination process in that Parliamentary seat, Joel will email out application forms to those who expressed an interest. 

However, we do welcome applications from new UNISON and non members, who are strong Labour movement candidates. Please note that other UNISON Labour Link regions will have different processes. 

These forms will all be considered and after a long listing process by Yvonne and myself, we will interview candidates via teams who wish a nomination.  All candidates interviewed will be asked the same questions and responses will be marked by an agreed matrix. The candidate who has the highest score will be nominated. If the scoring is very close we may reconsider application forms. 

We are accountable for the process and our decisions to our Regional Labour Link committee. We want to make sure that all candidates, including those not successful on this occasion, get positive, but honest and constructive feedback.

While apologies that this post is more than a little formal, I think it is important that we are transparent and everyone understands the process. We have had a lot of positive feedback from candidates who regardless of results think we have a fair and understandable system.



Monday, February 20, 2023

UNISON Women's Conference 2023: Denise Thomas report

Guest post by Denise Thomas.

"I attended Women’s Conference as a delegate from Cymru Wales, Ymlaen/Forward Branch.

This year it was held in the wonderful seaside resort of Bournemouth. Firstly, it was great to see so many friendly faces as this was the first face to face Women's conference since Covid.

Conference held a minute silence to remember Brianna Ghey and other Transgender people who died at the hands of violence

There were many interesting motions and great speakers on Cost of living, sexual abuse, industrial action and mental health amongst young workers. These were all motions that resonated with me, working as a Black support worker for a national charity supporting vulnerable residents, who live in a 24/7 residential project.

Our General Secretary, Christina McAnea gave a great speech to conference, which was well received, explaining how Women are at the forefront of so many of our disputes and campaigns, fighting for fair pay and for the future of our public services. Women are empowering women to not give up with the challenges we are facing.

Labour Bridget Phillipson, Shadow Secretary of State for Education addressed conference about the importance of childcare and education in Labours plans to form the next UK government. Many exciting ideas and plans.

Attending the Community Service group meeting, which continues to struggle and still experiencing the same issues, lack of pay due to the lack of local government funding, lone working, shortage of staff plus recruitment due to low pay, facility time plus the difficulties of organising due to the workforce being so fragmented.

With the cost of living continuing to rise, members are having to work extra hours or having to take on a second job in order to just survive.

Conference congratulated Sian Stockham, Unison Member for National Executive Council, on receiving an OBE for her Political and Public Services".

Sunday, February 19, 2023

Blackmore, Essex - Walk Feb 23

Gill and I went on another Big Essex Skies and Sunshine walk today, starting and finishing in Blackmore. This was a "moderate" 7.41 mile walk only 35 minutes by car from East London (public transport not great but possible). Considerate parking on street available. 

We started off with a coffee and tea outdoors at the Blackmore Tea Rooms (I "had to" have a hot sausage roll as well). This cafe was full of brightly clad cyclists also enjoying a drink or bite to eat.

Blackmore and the surrounding villages, hamlets and cottages are simply lovely, with lots of ancient duck ponds, green lanes, footpaths, forests and heathland. 

There is even a pub, The Cricketer" run by "Gray and Sons" breweries (no known relative unfortunately).

The birdsong was marvellous and we heard at least 3 different woodpeckers. Lots of signs of spring. 

There was some noise from local non commercial planes but nothing major. We saw 3 road motorbikes riding along a public footpath, but they were travelling quite slow. I took a picture but the number plates are not clear, so I have not been able to report to Police/Council. 

There was an unusual warning notice in a wood "Caution Archery practice in progress" but we could see no such activity at this time. 

Apart from the marvellous spring like weather, the walk had lots of variety, walking through fields, Common land, forests and villages. A little bit of up and down but this is Essex. 

I finished off with a pint of Doombar in the "Prince Albert" (the only ale available at that time on tap)

I downloaded this walk via the Ordnance Survey site for free (a subscription service but definitely recommended and it originated from the Country Walking site).  We just used the app to navigate and for once did not get lost (apart from few "mishaps" which were easily corrected)

This post with further pictures and map will be on my personal Facebook page but also on https://www.facebook.com/walksinandaroundlondon/. This site has nearly all our walks listed. 

Saturday, February 18, 2023

UNISON Greater London Housing Associations Branch e-newsletter: Feb 2023

 

Welcome to the Branch Newsletter! 

Last Monday, we all heard the horrible news about the powerful earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria early in the morning. A week later there are still many people trapped under debris, and the ones who managed to escape from the buildings were left homeless and without any shelter or support in severe weather conditions. If you wish to help, please donate money to the Emergency Earthquake Fund. You can do that by visiting the website: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/turkey-emergency-earthquake-fund 

Barbara Zagrodniczek Branch Communications Officer 

Opportunity to represent the Branch at UNISON 2023 National Delegate Conference Date: Friday, 13th June 2023 – Sunday, 16th June 2023 Location: Liverpool 

In the last issue of the Newsletter we announced that we are looking for members who wish to represent the Branch at the National Delegate Conference. Due to an error in the provided email address, we would like to extend the deadline to 3:00pm on Friday, 24th February 2023. If you would like to attend, please send your details along with a supporting statement (max. 100 words) to AGM.Admin@unisonhablondon.org 

For those who already submitted the statement, we kindly ask you to re-send it to the above email address. We apologise for any inconvenience this causes. Travel, accommodation, and meals will be paid for by the Branch in line with our expenses policy. We look forward to your responses. 

Upcoming Events UNISON LGBT+ London Region to celebrate LGBT+ History Month (In person) Thu, 16th February at 6:30pm-9:00pm at Queer Britain Museum, 2 Granary Square, London, N1C 4BH 

The Regional LGBT+ Committee would like to invite you to celebrate LGBT+ History Month at the UK’s first ever dedicated LGBT+ museum. The regional UNISON LGBT+ committee will be holding its first LGBT+ History Month in person since 2020. We are really excited for this event which is open to all members. Karl Lewis, the LGBT+ Officer will be in attendance. Please get in touch if you want to find out more. 

Sign up for the event here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/unison-london-lgbt-history-month-receptionat-queer-britain-tickets-531844419977 

Branch’s AGM (Hybrid meeting) Wednesday, 8th March 2023 at 6:00pm-8:00pm (in person and virtual) 

Details will be circulated separately by email. 

Women’s Training and Networking Event (In person event) Friday, 10th March 2023 at 10:00am-4:30pm at UNISON Centre, 130 Euston Road, London, NW1 2AY 

It is an annual women’s training and networking event hosted by the Regional Women’s Committee. The event is aimed at all elected branch officers who are women, and branch women’s contacts. Attendance is free, but pre-registration is essential. The deadline to submit registration forms is 24th February 2023. If you are interested in attending, please get in touch with Barbara Zagrodniczek, Branch Communications Officer at AGM.Admin@unisonhablondon.org 

International Workers Memorial Day (In person event) Friday, 28th April 2023, Bow, East London 

Please save the date in your calendars. More details will follow soon. 

Branch Officers’ Reports (February 2023) 

Chris Milson – Branch Secretary 

Working people are continuing to stand-up all-over Britain, fighting for better pay and conditions, catalysed by the current cost of living crisis and a Westminster government that is proving deaf to their concerns. In UNISON, public service workers in local government, education, health, and other sectors either have been striking, or have strike dates booked in the coming weeks. 

The UNISON Housing Associations Branch stands in solidarity with all union members that take the difficult decision to go on strike for better pay and conditions. 

Your Branch Needs You The UNISON Housing Association Branch’s AGM is next month. We’ve had an eventful year and all officers of the Branch Executive will be talking about what they’ve done in their elected roles this year for the Branch and its members. If you can, please come along and hear about what we’ve been doing, and what our goals are for the coming year. 

You can also stand for election to join the committee – look out for the online nomination form we’ll be sending out shortly. If you care about your Branch, and believe that you, or another member you know, has something to offer in helping to run it – do please consider nominating them or yourself for an Executive Officer position. 

Barbara Zagrodniczek – Branch Communication Officer 

In October 2022 I edited and circulated the first issue of the Branch Newsletter. Five months later I am proud to see that more and more of our members are taking part in the surveys and are putting themselves forward to represent the Branch at different forums. 

I hope we will be continue sharing similar opportunities with you in the future. I continue to work on improving Branch communications. This is why I am pleased to announce that our Branch is now ready to start publishing the Newsletter on the Branch website. I hope that this will make it more accessible to those who do not always have access to their emails. 

Further to that, we are planning to update content on the Branch website. 

Conference and Meeting Reports Greater London Regional Council AGM – 

Report For those of you who may not be aware, the Regional Council is the senior membership body which oversees the work of the Greater London region representing and supporting members, and it is being elected by all Greater London branches. The Annual General Meeting took place on Wednesday, 8 th February 2023 at Holiday Inn in Bloomsbury. Our Branch was represented by John Gray, Joseph Ogundemuren and myself. 

The meeting opened with passionate speeches given by Dr Rosena Allin-Khan, MP and Shadow Minister (Mental Health) and Sara Gorton, UNISON Head of Health. Both speakers focused on the importance of changes in the UK health system and solidarity with the Ambulance Service. 

After that, similarly to the Branch AGM, the meeting followed a standard agenda – minutes from the last AGM, matters arising, reports and motions. 

Our Branch submitted two motions. The first one, ‘Cost of Living’, was submitted for consideration as a regional motion to the 2023 National Delegate Conference. At the AGM it was presented by John Gray and received a positive response. 

The second one, ‘Year of the Black Worker’, was written in collaboration with the Croydon Local Government Branch and put forward by Joseph Ogundemuren. 

Barbara Zagrodniczek

(This communication has been written by a dyslexic person. If you have any trouble with the meaning of any of the sentences or words, please do not be afraid to ask for clarification)

Friday, February 17, 2023

Emergency Fundraising Dinner for Turkiye & Syria - Sisters Forum


This evening I went to support a fundraising dinner being held for disaster relief of victims of the recent deadly earthquake in Turkey and Syria.  I think all of us have been pretty shocked by the media footage of the death and devastation caused and the plight of the survivors. 

The hall was fully booked and well supported by local residents including the Mayor, Chair of Council and other Councillors. Also many people from outside Newham. 

There was a number of powerful speakers but the most powerful and personal one was by Hulya Yilmza, who is from the region in Turkey that has been most affected. She described the loss of her family members and friends and some of the horrible injuries they had suffered. 

Many thanks to my Councillor colleague, Sabia Kamali, the Sisters Forum and sponsors for organising this important event so quickly and running it so well. 

You can donate online https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/emergency-earthquake

Thursday, February 16, 2023

ONEUNISON - Winning for all UNISON members & our public services.


"UNISON holds elections every two years for the National Executive Council. It’s an important body representing every region, nation, service group, Black members, young members and disabled members. Key decisions about what our union does are made by the NEC.

This year’s elections are your chance to vote for a new leadership team that will get on with the job, work in partnership with our elected General Secretary, positively promote our union and stay focused on winning for all UNISON members and our public services.

ONE UNISON is a group of UNISON activists who will campaign for candidates who promise to do that. There are lots of candidates in these elections, so we’ll make it easy for you to choose!
"

Check out this website https://www.oneunison.org/ and sign up for regular updates, articles and features. More info to follow.


Wednesday, February 15, 2023

A Service of Celebration for the Life of Kathy Taranczuk

Yesterday I went to celebrate the life of my former Housing manager, Kathy Taranczuk. Kathy had been the office manager of Ranwell/Old Ford local housing office in Bow from 1996 to 2007. I had been her senior housing officer. 

I went with my former colleague, Michelle Smith, to the service in Maidstone, Kent. 

The service itself went very smoothly and was indeed a celebration of Kathy's life. The tribute from her husband Jan, was particularly moving. 

Afterwards there was a very nice spread at a nearby hotel and a chance to chat and catch up with old friends. Jan and the family were very welcoming.

You can donate in memory of Kathy at the Heart of Kent Hospice https://www.hokh.org/support-us/make-a-donation-in-memory/funeral-donations/

Tuesday, February 14, 2023

Heart UNISON 2023

 

Check out UNISON website on #HeartUNISON #HeartUnions week 13-19 Feb

Heart UNISON is part of Heart Unions Week, the TUC’s annual event to celebrate unions, to make sure everyone knows why we’re vital at work, and to encourage everyone to join one.

The obvious link is today - "Valentine' Day (February 14) so it's a little tongue in cheek but this week is a time to remind members of the many vital benefits of being a trade union and to recruit non members.

Remember that there is research that Union members tend to be better paid than non union members, have better terms and conditions and are also safer at work.

As a UNISON rep, one of the worse things, I have to do is to refuse requests from non trade union members who are in trouble and want advice or representation on employment issues.

In UNISON (and I believe all unions) you cannot get advice or representation on any issue that began before you became a member and for 4 weeks afterwards. It's it a bit like trying to get car insurance after you have crashed your car.

However, as vital and important as individual representation is, the most important benefit of trade union membership is the unions negotiating and bargaining with your employer on collective terms and conditions such as pay, sickness policy, annual leave and pensions.

The more people in the union, the better the deal the unions will be able to negotiate on your behalf.

Now is the time to recruit as workers can see other workers uniting together to take on their employers for more pay and to protect services.

In my employer this week we have organised meetings and surveys for non trade union members on crucial issues such as the annual Pay Claim, Protecting Pensions, Bullying and Violence at work.

Stewards are encouraged to speak to non members in their teams about the benefits of joining the unions. Remember also that the reason given most often by people on why they are not in a union is that they say they have never been asked to join a union.

Check out the resources and materials on the UNISON and TUC website and lets all #LoveUnions this week and every week.

Join UNISON here https://join.unison.org.uk/. If you are unsure which union to join then check out this TUC site https://www.tuc.org.uk/join-a-union


Monday, February 13, 2023

Etholiadau NEC UNSAIN 2023: Datganiad John Gray ar gyfer Sedd Gyffredinol y Gymuned (Papurau pleidleisio yn gollwng 17/4/23)

"Rwy’n gweithio i gymdeithas tai ac yn mynd i’r afael ag ymddygiad gwrthgymdeithasol cymhleth, cam-drin domestig a thwyll tenantiaeth. Fel gweithiwr tai, rwy’n deall yn uniongyrchol straen ac anawsterau darparu gwasanaethau cyhoeddus. Fel stiward a Chynullydd Cenedlaethol, rwy’n gweithio’n galed yn ddyddiol i helpu aelodau pan fo angen help arnynt fwyaf, gan eu cynrychioli gyda materion disgyblaeth, absenoldeb salwch ac achwyniadau yn ogystal â chyd-drafod gyda’m cyflogwr ar gyflog, amodau a thelerau.

Yn rhy aml, cais y sector cymunedol ei danbrisio a’i anwybyddu. Yn aml mae gennym amodau a thelerau gwaeth na’r rheiny sy’n cael eu cyflogi’n uniongyrchol gan ymddiriedolaethau ysbytai neu awdurdod lleol. Mae angen llywodraeth ar weithwyr cymunedol sy’n parchu ein sector a’r gwasanaethau pwysig rydym yn eu darparu.

Fy niddordeb arbennig yw pensiynau ac rwy’n cynrychioli UNSAIN ar ddau fwrdd pensiwn. Dylai fod gan bawb yr hawl i bensiwn teg a da, ac mae ein sector yn aml yn dioddef cyfraniadau cyflogwr is a buddion gwaeth.

Yn ogystal â bod yn weithiwr rheng flaen, rwy’n actifydd profiadol. Fi yw Cynullydd UNSAIN Cenedlaethol dros fy nghyflogwr ac rwy’n Aelod Gweithredol y Grŵp Gwasanaethau Cymunedol, ac yn gyn-aelod NEC. Rwyf wedi bod yn aelod gweithredol ar gyfer canghennau llywodraeth leol a chymunedol ers dros 29 o flynyddoedd, ac yn flaenorol rwyf wedi bod yn ysgrifennydd, yn drysorydd ac yn swyddog iechyd a diogelwch cangen.

Fel eich aelod NEC, rwy’n addo mynd i’r afael â’r materion sy’n bwysig a rhoi ein haelodau wrth wraidd popeth – fel yr wyf wedi’i wneud bob tro.

Pleidleisiwch dros Denise Thomas (Sedd Gymunedol Fenywaidd)

Os ydyn ni’n cael ein hethol, rydym yn addo’r canlynol:

Rhoi Aelodau’r Gymuned yn Gyntaf – Byddwn yn cynrychioli pob un o’r 82,000 o aelodau UNSAIN gan godi’r materion sydd bwysicaf i aelodau’r gymuned a changhennau. Byddwn hefyd yn sicrhau bod aelodau’r gymuned yn derbyn safon cynrychiolaeth, cyngor cyfreithiol a chymorth gan UNSAIN pan fo’u hangen arnynt fwyaf.

Mynd i’r Afael â’r Argyfwng Costau Byw - mae angen codiad cyflog cyfiawn ym mhob cyflogwr trydydd sector a rhagor o adnoddau er mwyn i ganghennau wneud hynny. Mae gennym y cyflogau isaf a’r amodau a thelerau gwaethaf a disgwylir i ni oroesi ar ewyllys da a’n brwdfrydedd dros ein sector. Mae angen ariannu tymor hir gwirioneddol a pharch at y gwasanaethau pwysig rydym yn eu darparu.

Sefyll yn Unedig a Gwrthod Rhaniad - Byddwn yn gweithio gyda, ac yn cefnogi Christina McAnea, yr Ysgrifennydd Cyffredinol etholedig i gyflawni ar gyfer yr holl aelodau. Gwnaeth pleidlais o ddiffyg hyder yn yr NEC y llynedd ddangos yr hyn sydd bwysicaf yw gweithio ar gyfer newid cadarnhaol a chynyddol yn ein hundeb - dim bychander a diogelu unigolion.

Sicrhau bod gan bawb lais yn UNSAIN - Mae gan y gymuned dros 80% o aelodau sy’n fenywod a 20% o aelodau du gyda gweithlu amrywiol ar draws yr holl ranbarthau a chenhedloedd. Mae’n rhaid i UNSAIN gynrychioli’r holl aelodau a dylai’r NEC gael ei arwain gan y rheiny sy’n gwneud.

Brwydro yn erbyn gwahaniaethu a’i roi wrth wraidd UNSAIN- Ni ddylai unrhyw un byth brofi hiliaeth, casineb at fenywod, rhywiaeth, trawsffobia, homoffobia, rhagfarn ar sail oedran, anabledd neu unrhyw ffurf arall ar wahaniaethu naill ai yn y gweithlu neu’r undeb. Rydym yn addo gweithio gyda’r holl Grwpiau Hunan-drefnu i gefnogi eu blaenoriaethau".

UNISON NEC Elections 2023: John Gray Statement for Community General Seat (Ballot papers drop 17/4/23)

"I work for a housing association and deal with complex anti-social behaviour, domestic abuse and tenancy fraud. As a housing worker I understand first-hand the stresses and difficulties of providing public services. As a steward and National Convenor, I work hard every day to help members when they need it most, representing them in disciplinary, sickness absences and grievances as well as negotiating with my employer on pay, terms and conditions.

Too often the community sector is overlooked and underestimated. We often have much worse terms and conditions than those directly employed by hospital trusts or local authorities. Community workers need a government that respects our sector and the important services we provide.

My special interest is pensions and I represent UNISON on two pension boards. Everyone should have the right to a fair and decent pension, our sector often suffers from lower employer contributions and worse benefits. 

As well as being a front line worker I am an experienced activist. I’m the National UNISON Convenor for my employer and a Community Service Group Executive member, and former NEC member. I’ve been an active member of both local government & community branches for over 29 years, I’ve previously been branch secretary, treasurer, and health & safety officer.

As your NEC member, I promise to tackle the issues that matter and put our members’ front and centre- as I've always done.

Please also vote for Denise Thomas (Community Female seat)

If elected, we promise to:

Put Community Members First - We will represent every one of the 82,000 plus UNISON members raising the issues that matter most to Community members and branches. We will also make sure Community members get a high standard of representation, legal advice and support from UNISON when they need it most.

Tackle the Cost of Living Crisis - we need a decent pay rise in every third-sector employer and increased resources for branches to do so. We have the lowest pay, worst terms and conditions and are expected to survive on good will and our passion for our sector. We need proper, long-term funding and respect for the important services we provide.

Stand United and Reject Division - We will work with, and support, Christina McAnea, the elected General Secretary to deliver for all members. Last year’s vote of no confidence in the current NEC shows that what matters most is working for positive, progressive change in our union - not pettiness and protecting individuals.

Make sure everyone has a voice in UNISON - Community has over 80% Women and over 20% Black members with a diverse workforce across all regions and nations. UNISON must represent all members and the NEC should be led by those that do.

Fight Discrimination and put it at the heart of UNISON- No-one should ever experience racism, misogyny, sexism, transphobia, homophobia, ageism, disability or any other form of discrimination in either the workplace or the union. We promise to work with all the Self- Organised Groups to support their priorities".

Sunday, February 12, 2023

Labour LGA Conference 2023 - Campaign Workshops

 

I am back home this evening after attending the annual Labour Local Government Association conference in Nottingham. It was a a great conference, with lots of practical ideas for Labour Councillors but also very inspiring as it seems (touch wood, fingers crossed, don't trust polls, need to work still very hard etc. etc.) that we need to change from being the "official opposition" to be being a real "Government in waiting". 

I arrived late yesterday and was only able to attend one of the 30 workshops held that day on "Digital Ward Councillor: The Basics" led by Cllr Michael Payne, Gedling Council, Deputy Leader LGA Labour Group. Which despite being a longstanding Labour social media "warrior" was excellent and I learnt a lot. I will post more on the conference during the next few days. 

Friday, February 10, 2023

UNISON London Ambulance Service (LAS) Strike: Picket outside their Waterloo Headquarters 10.2.23

 

After work this evening I went to the UNISON picket line outside the LAS headquarters in Waterloo, Central London. I went to show solidarity and support on behalf of Greater London UNISON Regional Council officers and my own Housing Associations UNISON branch. 

It was yet another, well organised and well supported LAS picket. Congratulations to their Branch Secretary Eddie Brand, and their stewards and regional support staff including our Regional Secretary, Jo Galloway. The pickets were confident, knew what the battle was about and what to do on a picket line. 

I see also from other social media reports that some LAS pickets are tomorrow setting off as volunteers to Turkey to help out as paramedics with the dreadful recent earthquake.  Last year the branch helped organise a convoy to Ukraine to deliver much needed medical supplies and equipment. 

I have been on various picket lines in my time in the Labour Movement and the UNISON LAS are by far the best organised I have ever attended. 

Our ace UNISON Head of Health, Sara Gorton, gave short speech to the pickets thanking them for all they are doing to save our NHS.

Fellow London UNISON activists Anu Prashar and Abiola Kusoro were also there to show solidarity.

Just to point out that contrary to Tory lies and smears, for life and limb calls, pickets are volunteering with the full support of their stewards, to leave the picket line to attend, and I have witnessed this on many occasions during this strike.  Because it is an "operational" picket line, with emergency ambulances coming and going, the branch has to be careful of numbers of pickets and supporters to ensure safety. 

I came back home tonight feeling uplifted and proud of my union and our members.  

Thursday, February 09, 2023

Investors call for a Say on Climate

 


LAPFF, Sarasin & Partners, CCLA and Ethos Foundation write to the FTSE All-share urging AGM vote on climate action plans

"Last week the Local Authority Pension Fund Forum (LAPFF), Sarasin & Partners LLP, CCLA and Ethos Foundation wrote to the chairs of all FTSE listed companies (excluding investment trusts) requesting that companies allow for a shareholder vote on their greenhouse gas emission reduction strategy. Having a ‘Say on Climate’ vote aims to enhance transparency and accountability on one of the most pressing financially material risks facing investee companies.

Ahead of the 2023 AGM season, the letter welcomed those Boards that have already enabled shareholders to have a ‘Say on Climate’ via a resolution on the ballot paper. However, the letter urged all companies to follow suit by disclosing their transition plans aligned to a 1.5°C temperature outcome and allowing investor oversight on the robustness of plans through a vote on the strategy and any associated capital expenditure requirements.

The intervention comes against the backdrop of increasing pressure from government and regulators to draw up plans and take action to reduce emissions. The letter’s signatories noted the HM Treasury’s launch of the UK Transition Plan Taskforce to develop the ‘gold standard’ for private sector climate transition plans in the UK. The taskforce states that a transition plan should be integral to the company’s overall strategy, setting out how it aims to prepare and contribute to a rapid shift towards a decarbonised economy.

Cllr Doug McMurdo, Chair of LAPFF, said:

“The lack of disclosure and the timidity of climate plans at many companies are very serious concerns for investors. Such concerns should be addressed by all companies publishing credible climate action plans and allowing investors to have a say on whether the strategies are fit for purpose.”

Natasha Landell-Mills, Partner at Sarasin & Partners LLP, said:

“Climate change is eroding humanity’s ability to prosper. Companies cannot continue to generate wealth on the back of eroding natural capital. Promises to align with net 2 zero are necessary but not sufficient to move us onto a more sustainable path. Where will investment go to build a net zero future? What harmful activities will be wound down? Investors – and the public – need to know how these promises are going to be delivered.”

Tessa Younger, Better Environment Lead at CCLA, said:

“CCLA advocates for companies to produce high quality transition plans to enable them to make better-informed decisions on how to allocate capital. As part of the Delivery Group for the Transition Plan Taskforce, we believe there should be disclosure of robust transition plans, and governance and accountability mechanisms that support their delivery. A routine vote at company AGMs would provide this mechanism for companies to take account of shareholder feedback.”

Vincent Kaufmann, CEO of the Ethos Foundation, said:

“Climate change represents a significant risk for companies and their shareholders. Shareholders expect a board of directors not only to set ambitious targets to reduce GHG emissions but also, and more importantly, to define a clear and efficient strategy to achieve these targets. The aim of ‘Say on Climate’ is precisely to enable shareholders to assess the effectiveness of climate strategies and, when necessary, to increase pressure on the board of directors if the measures taken are not considered sufficient."

Wednesday, February 08, 2023

UNISON Greater London Regional Council AGM 2023: Re-elected as RCO for 16th time (?) in a row


This morning was our Regional Council AGM and I was pleased to have been re-elected (unopposed) as Regional Finance Convenor alongside my comrades, Yvonne Green, as Regional Convenor and Conroy Lawrence, as Deputy Convenor. We were joined on the Regional Council team (the lay Executive for the 130,000 members in Greater London) by newly elected Equalities Convenor, Annette Heslop. See picture of us with Regional Secretary Jo Galloway on top left of collage. The Publicity Officer election is being rerun due to an admin error.

Our keynote guest speakers were Dr Rosena Allin-Khan MP, who is the Labour Shadow minister on Mental Health as well as a real life hospital doctor (see photo left of collage with Rosena, me and NHS activist Jim Mansfield who was also re-elected as our rep on Conference Standing Orders Committee) and our superb UNISON Head of Health, Sara Gorton. 

I gave the regional finance budget report to the AGM, which was adopted and I thanked members for their trust and confidence in re-electing me again as well as Yvonne and Conroy. 

After reports, we began debating motions. I spoke first moving my branch (GLR Housing Associations) "Cost of Living motion" which no one spoke against but saw some "fantasy" Life of Brian speeches, attacking the Labour Party, rather than the Tories, over the Cost of Living Crisis! 

Anu Prashar spoke passionately and eloquently on the (dreadful) LGBT+ experience during this crisis. 

There was some brilliant contributions during the debate on the "Industrial Action" motion moved by Kensington & Chelsea Local Government Branch. In particular Sonya Howard (K&C Chair) and Eddie Brand, Branch Secretary of the London Ambulance Service, who were the only branch to successfully win a strike ballot in the current NHS dispute and have delivered 4 days of strike action with next one on this Friday.  Hospital worker, Abiola Kusoro, told us how her branch lost out on strike action by only 1% shortfall in the vote and how they hope and expect to win the pending rerun ballot. 

Our former HAB activist (and my fellow West Ham Labour activist) Mitsy Harmon-Russell, now a NHS care worker moved the motion in support of our UNISON Charity "There for You". 

My other branch motion (composited with Croydon motion) on "Year of the Black Worker" was moved by our Branch Chair, Joseph Ogundemuren who got us all clapping and chanting combining humour with serious messages. 

Afterwards I had to rush off to my nearby housing office, to catch up with the ever urgent ASB work and union issues, then in the evening to go to my branch executive meeting.  

Tuesday, February 07, 2023

Snap poll shows more than half employers guilty of ‘wellbeing washing’

 

As a trade union elected representative for UNISON Community members in London I totally agree with this article in IOSH website. So many employers pretend to care for the well being of their staff but simply do not deliver. Why on earth to they do this? "Workers are not stupid". 

"The term ‘worker wellbeing’ appears to be trending these days as more employers switch on to the fact their workforce is their greatest asset, especially in the current workers’ jobs market.

But another term has been coined to shame employers that want to appear mindful of their workers’ wellbeing yet fail to provide them with any real benefits – ‘wellbeing washing’.

Looking for that ‘quick fix’ to keep their people onside (and hopefully attract new talent), these employers are increasingly being called out for offering free fruit, gym memberships, yoga classes and the like with one hand while pushing staff towards unsustainable workloads, long hours and burnout with the other.

It’s a phenomenon highlighted recently by IOSH Research Programme Lead Dr Karen Michell, in her blog ‘Want to really do right by your people?’

Web poll

So IOSH decided to test just how widespread ‘wellbeing washing’ has become by asking visitors to our website a few questions on the matter, starting with “Do you think your employer is guilty of wellbeing washing?”

This snap online poll, which attracted more than 400 responses from nearly 60 countries over three working days, confirmed that wellbeing washing really is a thing, with more than half (51%) of respondents pointing an accusing finger at their employer. Those who found their employer guilty as charged referred to wide-ranging examples of staff ‘benefits’ they didn’t want or need, including:

  • Online ‘wellbeing services’
  • Employment Assistance Programmes that focus on out-of-hours issues but don’t deal with work or office-related matters
  • Discounts on holidays (which are still too expensive)
  • Wellbeing walks (but with no time to go on them)
  • Fruit and ice cream
  • Shopping discounts (but having to pay for staff parking)
  • Mental health First Aid (described as a ‘box-ticking’ exercise that can sometimes see untrained volunteers do more harm than good).

Those employers providing benefits their employees won’t thank them for might be interested to see what benefits workers say they’re not getting but would actually welcome. These include:

  • Work risk assessments for stress
  • Access to a wider variety of healthy lifestyle classes, not just gym membership or yoga
  • More support for women on menopausal issues
  • Better mental health support
  • Better management
  • Flexible working
  • A more responsive attitude to worker surveys.

In her blog, Dr Michell advises employers they won’t get away with adopting a one-size-fits-all approach to worker wellbeing, while simply renaming a rest area as ‘The Chill Zone’ is a definite ‘no-no’: “Helping to keep your people contented while also attracting new talent will be vital to your operation – in fact, your whole future will depend on it,” she writes.

Workers aren’t stupid".

Monday, February 06, 2023

UNISON NEC Elections - Personal recommendations for London & National Seats


 UNISON Branches can still nominate candidates until next Monday 13 February. Above are my personal recommendations for the London seats and below for the national seats. 

We definitely need an NEC that puts members first, supports our General Secretary Christina McAnea (never again a vote of no confidence in the NEC)  and makes sure that everyone has a voice in UNISON. Fight discrimination and tackle the Cost of Living Crisis. 



Sunday, February 05, 2023

Your Labour Team for West Ham

 

After my Councillor surgery in the morning (local planning case work) I led on the Saturday afternoon "Street Surgery" of West Ham ward in Newham, London. Knocking on doors in what is apparently, the longest side road in the borough, Corporation Street, E15.  

We were talking to residents about local issues and their concerns they may have with the area and Newham Council, but also asking about what they think about national politics. 

I had some tough but constructive conversations about ASB/Street drinkers/fly tipping/parking controls but overall it was very positive for Labour. 

Residents like their local Councillors knocking on their doors, introducing themselves and listening. They very much like the idea that we have a weekly face to face surgery (drop in - no appointment necessary) inside the ward (Vicarage Lane Community Centre 10-11am every Saturday except Bank Holiday weekends) and they can contact us by phone or email. 

On national politics it was to me evident that some residents, who had been previously been against Labour and/or supported over parties, were going to support us in the next General Election to get rid of the Tories. 

However, we should be taking nothing for granted and always remember how ruthless and effective the Tory election machine is and the Labour Party past record for shooting itself in the foot. 

Picture of me, John W, Charlene and out top West Ham Labour activist, Varghese


Saturday, February 04, 2023

Newham Labour Unions - the Right to Strike

 

Picture collage from meeting on Thursday evening at St Lukes, Canning Town. This is the second meeting in Newham of Labour Party supporters who are trade union activists. Our launch was here https://www.johnslabourblog.org/2022/10/labour-national-day-of-action-canvass.html. Unmesh Desai and myself both chaired. Some key supporters were unable to attend due to clashes. 

The focus of the meeting was opposing the Tory attempts to get rid of the basic human right to take strike action. 

Our main speaker was Michael Gavan, from the NEU union, who explained the threat but was also able to give an update on the previous day's strike action in Schools across Newham. The bill (which should be called the "sacking of nurses and teachers" Act) has passed the House of Commons but has yet to go to the House of Lords. Since it is not a Government manifesto commitment, the Lords can cause problems. But we cannot rely on the Lords or even legal challenges, we must campaign as a movement to defeat it. 

Rohit Das Gupta also gave an update on UCU industrial action and I gave one on the UNISON London Ambulance. strikes (next strike is 10 Feb).

There was also a thoughtful and constructive discussion about next steps and agreed to consider a number of proposals such as a Labour union stall outside Stratford station on the "Right to Strike", possibly combined to celebrate "Love Unions" week 13-19 Feb;WhatsApp Broadcast Group on dates and times of Newham pickets lines and protests; Supporting local strike action by CWU; writing articles for Labour movement media on what we are trying to achieve in Newham and supporting the Workers Memorial Day Event in Stratford on 28 April. 

We are hoping to arrange monthly meetings from now on rotating from West Ham to East Ham. All Newham Labour Party supporters and trade union activists welcome. 

Hat tip photos Shantu

Friday, February 03, 2023

Local authority pension fund investment in affordable housing: is there a case for doing more? APPG 22 Feb 23


I am speaking at this virtual APPG event and looking forward to debating this key topical issue. Can local authority pension funds invest in "affordable" homes and still make an appropriate return? 

The terms "affordable" and of course "social" housing are in my view misused and arguably meaningless. Sub market rents are obviously better than market rents but very often they are "unaffordable" to so many in housing need. 

The Government interference into investment decisions and governance by Local Authority pension funds is also of concern. Will they try and force funds to invest into possible vanity infrastructure projects?  

While I believe that residential housing can be a very appropriate asset class (type of investment) for pension funds, if we want subsidised truly "affordable" or dare I say "social" rents (40-50% below most market rents) then we need subsidy from someone to bring rent levels down. This is not rocket science.

It is not only about rent levels but if you provide homes you also have to consider housing management standards, benefit allowances, security of tenure and meaningful resident participation.


ONLINE EVENT – REGISTER HERE

SPEAKERS

Paddy Dowdall (Assistant Executive Director at Greater Manchester Pension Fund)

Helen Collins (Head of Affordable Housing, Savills)

Cllr John Gray (Vice-Chair, Local Authority Pension Fund Forum)

John Butler (Finance Policy Lead, National Housing Federation)

Chair: Clive Betts MP

I am delighted to invite you to attend the next meeting of the APPG for Local Authority Pension Funds which will focus on local authority pension fund investment in affordable housing.

Local government pension funds have steadily increased their investment in place-based impact investments, which include both new and refurbished affordable housing. Most of the investment - from build to rent and shared ownership to temporary accommodation and specialist housing - is through co-investment partnerships and special purpose delivery vehicles with investment companies, charities and private and social housing providers.

Some have called for LGPS funds to further scale up investment in alternative assets and invest more in affordable housing. The Government is also calling on the LGPS to increase local investment and the chancellor has stated that the government will consult on requiring LGPS funds to consider illiquid asset investment opportunities.

This Zoom event will discuss what has been achieved and what more could be done to maximise investment opportunities. It will examine recent experience and best practice and explore the constraints and barriers to investing in affordable housing.

This meeting will be held online, if you want to attend please register here.

Best wishes

Clive Betts MP

Chair, APPG for Local Authority Pension Funds

Sent by the Secretariat of the APPG for Local Authority Pensions Funds which is sponsored by the LAPFF

Thursday, February 02, 2023

Wednesday, February 01, 2023

East London & the Olympics 10 years on - where next? Unmesh Desai AM


 Yesterday evening there was a reception at London City Hall (Newham!) hosted by East London & City Assembly Member, Unmesh Desai. The theme was about the Olympics 2012 legacy. There was a number of interesting speakers and it was good to meet up face to face again with colleagues from across London. 

There was of course the obligatory photo of us all from Newham Labour :-)