London Labour Regional Conference 2026 – Delegate Reflections (as UNISON Labour Link)

Day 1 — Opening, Workshops, and Fringes

I arrived at the London Labour Regional Conference with the UNISON Labour Link delegation (and delegation leader), ready for 1.5 days of debates, workshops, and organising. Before the start we had a delegation meeting and gathered in trade union affiliates and as a delegation. Our Chair, Maggi Ferncombe, opened the conference, setting a confident and purposeful tone for the weekend.

The keynote speaker was David Lammy MP, addressing Pride in London and the wider political moment. His speech landed well — thoughtful, outward‑looking, and rooted in Labour values.

After the keynote, the conference broke into workshops. I headed to the YIMBY Labour fringe session with Greenwich Council Leader Cllr Anthony Okereke, exploring practical approaches to housing growth and planning reform. I raised the issue of providing homes in London for key workers many of whom will never be able to afford to buy or pay market rents.

Following lunch, we reconvened for the second UNISON Labour Link delegation meeting to discuss ballots and coordination. Then it was straight into another fringe: Places for London – “Metroland or Manchesterism: How do we build the homes London needs?” with contributions from Kam Rai, Tom Copley, Peabody, and Ruth Cadbury MP. A serious, grounded discussion about London’s housing future. I also asked the question was it possible to provide the homes needed for Londoners within Greater London boundaries. The answer from some panellists appeared to be yes. Interesting...

My final workshop of the day was “Supporting Local Parties”, an important session for me given the expectation that Stratford & Bow CLP will soon be reformed *and other Newham CLPs). Good practical guidance, and a reminder of how vital strong CLPs are to Labour’s organising culture.

The day closed with further speeches and reports on elections from Conference arrangement committee. Wes Streeting MP made his now‑famous joke about standing for Mayor of London “purely to wind up Dawn Butler MP who was in the audience” and corrected himself that only London was the greatest city in the world and that it was actually Manchester and London — a line that got a good laugh.

Day 2 — Reports, Recognition, and Motions

Day 2 opened with the CAC report on election processes, followed by a moving moment: long‑serving party activists receiving recognition certificates. Maggi also gave thanks to outgoing Prime Minister Keir Starmer, which prompted a standing ovation from the hall.

As a UNISON Labour Link delegate and Regional Convenor, I was proud to see Yvonne Green deliver a superb speech moving Motion 10: “London Rose Network.” Clear, confident, and rooted in the lived experience of London’s public service workers.

The rest of the morning and early afternoon saw more speakers from affiliates, the Co‑operative Party, CLPs, and GLA representatives — a reminder of the breadth and depth of Labour’s movement across the capital.

Overall Reflection

Across both days, the conference felt constructive, energetic, and grounded in real‑world priorities: housing, party organisation, public services, and community leadership. As an elected UNISON delegate, it was a privilege to contribute, listen, and represent our members.

Newham Power to Prosper Hub

Apologies for the lateness of this post — I’m well behind on social media updates — but I didn’t want to miss recording a very well‑attended and genuinely constructive meeting last month in Newham organised by Power to Proper.

I was there on behalf of Mayor Forhad Hussain, who had already met the organisation but was unable to attend this particular session. Fortunately, we were joined by Stephen Timms, our longstanding East Ham MP. It was a hot day, and Stephen was — true to form — the only person wearing a tie. Standards maintained.

One of the key issues raised was something that had initially caused a bit of confusion within the Council: “organisational homelessness.” Once explained, it made perfect sense. This wasn’t about individuals sleeping rough — it was about charities, community groups, and voluntary organisations who have no base, no office, and no centre from which to organise and deliver the vital services our residents rely on.

The discussion was frank and practical. I was able to confirm that the Mayor and Cabinet are committed to working with these organisations to identify and provide community spaces where possible. We all recognise that maintaining centres to a high standard — and ensuring they are run properly — requires resources. But we also know that the Council cannot solve every challenge alone. To meet our shared goals for Newham, we must work hand‑in‑hand with the voluntary sector.

This is an area I understand well, having spent nearly all of my working life in the voluntary sector. The passion, commitment, and resilience of these organisations is extraordinary — and helping them achieve stable, accessible spaces to operate from is not a luxury; it’s a necessity.

The meeting was a reminder of how much good can happen when local government and community organisations come together with honesty, ambition, and a shared purpose.

Council Surgery in Canning Town Library & West Ham walkabout

Canning Town Library – Covering Cllr Mohammed’s Surgery

Today I returned to Canning Town Library to cover the Councillor surgery of my colleague Cllr Shaban Mohammed, who had kindly covered my West Ham Ward surgery recently.

The session was scheduled for 10–11am but continued well past midday due to the number of residents seeking help.

Issues raised included:

• Housing disrepair

• Overcrowding

• Allocation bids

• Crime and ASB

• Litter

• Highway and parking concerns

• Immigration matters (referred to James Asser MP)

Some residents had hoped to follow up on cases previously raised with Cllr Mohammed, but were very happy to discuss them with me. I was struck by how many households were dealing with multiple housing problems while also caring for children with disabilities, making already difficult situations significantly harder.

I will pass existing cases back to Cllr Mohammed and raise new Member Enquiries on his behalf for the fresh issues brought today.

West Ham Ward – Estate Walkabout

After the surgery I joined (very late!) my West Ham ward colleague Cllr Adjoa Kwarteng to meet residents for an estate walkabout focused on serious ASB and parking issues.

Along the route I also identified:

• Overflowing bins in green spaces

• Abandoned vehicles

• Dangerous parking blocking emergency access routes

We will both be raising further Member Enquiries to ensure these matters are followed up.

Local Heritage

On my way I also passed the plaque honouring Jack Leslie, the Canning Town‑born footballer who became the first Black player selected for England — a reminder of the borough’s proud history.

Breakfast with Monty

 

This morning I met my retired UNISON Housing colleague, Montrose Matty, for breakfast at a local Toby buffet. Naturally, we stuck to just coffee and some healthy veggies.....

Meeting up with Cousin Ian

 

Tonight I met up with my first cousin Ian and his wonderful wife Julia Ann for the very first time. He chose a cosy family Italian restaurant in Waterloo, London

Ian is the son of my late maternal uncle, Robert James (Jim) Matthews, and for various reasons our paths had never crossed until now. Yet from the moment we sat down, it felt less like an introduction and more like a reunion that had simply taken its time.

In September, Ian and Julia Ann will be visiting North Wales, and other members of the family are already organising a meal in Denbigh to welcome them properly into the large Matthews clan. It will be a chance for everyone to meet him, and strengthen all the family ties that have been stretched across years and geography but never truly faded. I hope to be there as well.

Tonight was the beginning of something long overdue.

Cliffe Pools - North Kent Walk

 

Sharing a picture from a wonderful recent walk around the Kent Thames Estuary. Just about 50-ish minutes by car from East London, it was so quiet and peaceful. The following day, we went in search of Pip and Magwitch.

The "King of the North" speaks to UNISON Labour Link Forum

Reflections from Labour Link Forum – A Week That Felt Like a Turning Point

Just over a week ago, UNISON Labour Link delegates gathered in Manchester for our annual Forum — and we were privileged to welcome the man many call the King of the North, Andy Burnham MP. When he walked into the hall, the reaction was extraordinary: a genuine, spontaneous standing ovation that seemed to take him by surprise. You could see he was moved by it.

In his speech, he spoke with warmth, wit, and a deep sense of partnership. He reminded us that years ago UNISON trusted him at a crucial moment, giving him an early nomination that helped launch his parliamentary career. He told us he sees us not as stakeholders to be consulted after decisions are made, but as partners in shaping the future. It was a message that resonated strongly in the room.

He spoke with real passion about the challenges ahead — social care, fairness, political culture — and the need for a government that rebuilds trust and delivers meaningful change. His tone was collegiate, hopeful, and grounded in the realities facing working people.

While he was our headline speaker, the Forum was rich with contributions from others: Secretary of State Lisa Nandy MP, USDAW General Secretary Joanne Thomas, and many thoughtful interventions from delegates across the regions.

I attended a particularly insightful workshop led by Labour MP Gareth Snell on the rise of the far right. My own contribution was to again press the case for socio‑economic class to finally be recognised as a protected characteristic in UK equality law — a reform promised in 2010 but shamefully vetoed by the incoming Conservative–Liberal Democrat coalition.

Gareth acknowledged the stark inequalities highlighted in recent reporting, including the evidence that white working‑class children are being failed by the education system (BBC News, 2024). The discussion was serious, grounded, and focused on how Labour can confront these injustices with honesty and courage.

I was there as a UNISON Labour Link National Committee member, elected by out NEC. What I took away from Forum was a renewed sense of hope — not naïve optimism, but a belief that meaningful change is possible when unions, Labour representatives, and communities work together with clarity and purpose.

In a political moment where the country is clearly hungry for something better, the Forum felt like a reminder of what partnership, solidarity, and democratic accountability can achieve. I left Manchester with optimism — and with a sense that the work we do in UNISON Labour Link genuinely matters for the future of our country.

📢🌹 UNISON has endorsed Andy Burnham to become the next leader of the Labour Party.

 I (and many others) spoke in support of Andy at today’s meeting, where we unanimously endorsed him as Leader.

"The Labour Link Committee has selected its preferred successor to Keir Starmer, with UNISON – the UK’s largest trade union – backing Andy Burnham to lead the Labour Party.

The decision was made by the Labour Link Committee, comprising UNISON representatives from across the country who are also Labour Party members.

Committee Chair Linda Hobson said that Andy is best placed to deliver on the promise of change for the UK, praising his strength, integrity and commitment to public services and the workers who provide them.

Linda also paid tribute to Keir Starmer for his leadership, which helped secure a historic Labour victory and delivered important improvements for working people, including the Employment Rights Act, stronger protections for renters, and measures aimed at lifting thousands of children out of poverty".

https://unison.org.uk/press/2026/07/unison-backs-andy-burnham-labour-leader

UNISON National Labour Link Forum pre meet & Campaigning for Bev In Manchester

The UNISON National Labour Link Forum this year was in Manchester. An interesting place to be politically at any time, but especially at this moment.

I took the train on Wednesday evening after helping to chair LAPFF meetings and arrived late. On Thursday morning, I started the day with a run (or, more accurately, a short, slow jog) around the Cheetham area. It was mostly industrial and a far cry from the shiny new Manchester city-centre office blocks and high-rise apartments nearby. One notable exception was the Manchester Jewish Museum, which I must make time to visit.

In the morning, I attended a meeting of the UNISON National Labour Link Committee, as an elected NEC member. We discussed the usual pre-Forum issues, including speakers, motions and the agenda.

Afterwards, many of us caught a bus to campaign for Manchester Labour mayoral candidate Bev Craig, who is standing to replace a certain Andy Burnham. We met local organisers, including former Newham organiser Jack Risbridger, before splitting into three groups and door-knocking in the traditional streets of Cheetham.

The response was good and, in many ways, it reminded me of canvassing in Newham. There was the occasional ear-bashing about litter, over-zealous parking enforcement and anti-social behaviour, but that comes with the territory. There was no negativity towards Bev, which was encouraging, but I know we cannot take anything for granted.

In the evening, we had a reception at the hotel, where Bev was the keynote speaker. I knew little about her beforehand but came away very impressed. She was articulate, no-nonsense and obviously highly competent, with the added benefit of being a former UNISON activist and officer. She spoke passionately about what she wants to achieve as Labour Mayor of Manchester and proudly referenced her working-class background – something that always rings my bell.

We spoke afterwards about her campaign and how the union, along with the wider Labour Party, can help secure her victory.

The Forum itself began at 9.00 am the following day (I had thought it started at 9.15 am, but never mind). I will post about that later, including the appearance of a "surprise" keynote speaker.

Celebrating the Life of Gilbert Constantine Clarke - RAF World War 2 Veteran/Windrush Pioneer/Musician/Community Elder

 

On Saturday morning I attended the funeral service for Mr Clarke in the main chamber of East Ham Town Hall. The chamber was full to the doors — a testament to the love, respect and gratitude felt for a man whose generation helped save Britain from defeat in the Second World War.

The RAF did him proud. Air Commodore Alun Roberts delivered a formal Military Tribute, supported by a bearer party of RAF Regiment airmen who carried themselves with impeccable discipline and respect. The service itself was beautifully organised by Mr Clarke’s family and friends, alongside RAFA, BWIRHT, the Taxi Charity for Military Veterans, the Caribbean Social Forum and the RAF Benevolent Fund. Their collective effort created a ceremony worthy of his life and legacy. The Rev Dr Michael King conducted the service with grace and solemnity.

I attended as the representative of the Newham Mayor, Forhad Hussain, and was seated next to the Jamaican High Commissioner, H.E. Alexander Williams — a reminder of the deep Commonwealth ties that shaped the wartime generation. Men and women from across what is now the Commonwealth travelled thousands of miles to defend Britain from Nazi tyranny. Mr Clarke stood among those heroes.

It was an honour to honour him. His generation — steadfast, courageous, and united across continents — helped secure the freedoms we enjoy today. We must never forget their sacrifice.

Shoeburyness to Westcliff – Essex Coastal Walk

 

Last Sunday, Gill and I took the trains from Forest Gate out to Shoeburyness for another stretch of the Essex Coast. After the relative freshness of the previous weekend’s walk, we thought the sea breeze might offer a cooler alternative to an inland route. It turned out to be a perfect choice.

The King Charles III England Coastal Path is now the longest coastal trail in the UK — a national route that winds around the entire English coastline. We’ve been toying with the idea of completing it in stages over the coming years. Whether we’ll ever manage the whole thing is another matter; there are so many brilliant paths across the UK (and beyond) competing for attention. But who knows.

Shoeburyness itself was full of surprises. I hadn’t realised it had been home to a major Army base for many decades, specialising not only in the coastal defence of the Thames and London but also in gunnery and weapons testing. As we followed the coastal path, the military history was everywhere: former forts, barracks, memorials, bunkers, gun emplacements — each one a reminder of how strategically important this stretch of coast once was.

The walk towards Southend‑on‑Sea was glorious. Big Essex skies, bright weather, and that wide estuary light that always feels a little cinematic. By the time we reached the Pier, the day had settled into that perfect mix of warmth and sea breeze.

One great advantage of a coastal walk is that it’s harder to get lost — just keep the sea on your left  — and with excellent local rail links you can easily do a linear walk and decide your finishing point as you go.

Lunch was at 140 Eastern Esplanade Café, found via Google Maps — highly recommended for good food and very Essex. 

We carried on as far as Westcliff, roughly six miles in total, before deciding to head home. The return was easy: c2c to Barking, then the Overground to Wanstead Park. With a railcard, it’s incredibly cheap, and if we’d booked a return a few days in advance it would have been even cheaper — around a third off.

Another great coastal section completed, and a lovely day out. Plenty more of the Essex coast still to explore.

Clarification regarding the UNISON General Secretary statements regarding the Labour Party by UNISON Labour Link

 Dear National Labour Link Committee and Regional Labour Link Committees, 

 

Some of you will have seen the article in the press and communications from the General Secretary Andrea Egan regarding an endorsement of Ed Miliband to be Chancellor of the Exchequer.

 

The General Secretary made this statement in her personal capacity. Any Labour Party endorsements should be and remain the decision of the Labour Link Committee. In this case, there is also no process for unions to be involved in the nomination or endorsement of members of the Cabinet. 

 

To this effect, UNISON’s press team is clarifying to journalists that the General Secretary’s comments have been made in a personal capacity and are not an endorsement on behalf of UNISON....

 

Best wishes,

 

Linda Hobson and Tess Morris

Chair and Vice-Chair of the National Labour Link Committee

As an elected member of the UNISON Labour Link London Regional Committee — and its Chair — as well as a National Labour Link NEC representative, I fully support the statement issued by Linda Hobson and Tess Morris.

The General Secretary is, of course, entitled to express a personal opinion. But she does not speak for UNISON on matters of Labour Party endorsement. Under long‑established practice and our UNISON Rule Book, these decisions rest solely with the Labour Link Committee, whose members are democratically elected for precisely this purpose.

Any endorsement must follow proper consultation and a transparent, democratic process — not the personal view of any UNISON official. Departing from that principle undermines our structures and risks making UNISON look frankly silly at a time when clarity and discipline are essential.

The Passing of Second World War Veteran & Newham Resident: Gilbert: Clarke.

This Saturday I will be attending the memorial service at East Ham Town Hall on behalf of Newham Council to honour the life and service of Gilbert, a veteran whose courage helped safeguard our freedoms at a moment of profound danger for our country.

I feel a deep personal connection to the RAF and to the generation who stood against the Nazi threat. My maternal grandfather served in the RAF during the Second World War, and my father completed his national service in the RAF in Germany during the Berlin Airlift — a critical chapter in the defence of post‑war Europe. In my youth I was a proud member of the Air Training Corps, and I understand Gilbert was a committed supporter of our local Newham ATC. My sister also served in the RAF, continuing that thread of service across our family.

Gilbert belonged to that extraordinary generation who travelled thousands of miles, leaving home and loved ones, to protect people they had never met. Their bravery shaped the world we live in today. We owe them a debt that can never truly be repaid, but we can honour it — by remembering their sacrifice, by telling their stories, and by ensuring future generations understand what they gave to keep tyranny at bay.

We should never forget heroes like Gilbert.

Hat tip to Newham Voices for helping keep these important stories alive.

West Ham Ward Councillor report: Week ending 28/6/26

This is a factual round‑up of my recent activities as one of your West Ham Ward Councillors. Please feel free to share with neighbours, community groups, and WhatsApp chats.

Safeguarding Induction – Adults & Children

On Monday evening, Cllr Kwarteng and I attended an in‑person induction session on Adults’ and Children’s Safeguarding delivered by Newham Social Services. The training covered our responsibilities as councillors and corporate parents, and what steps we must take when we encounter safeguarding concerns in the community.

Residents can find more information here:

• Safeguarding Children: https://www.newham.gov.uk/children-families/safeguarding-children

• Safeguarding Adults: https://www.newham.gov.uk/health-adult-social-care/sg-raising-alert/2

Pension Committee Training

On Wednesday evening, I joined a mandatory online training session for members of the Council’s Pension Committee. Although I’ve served on various pension bodies over the years, it was helpful to revisit the fundamentals and ensure full compliance with current governance requirements.

Maud Gardens Walkabout

On Thursday lunchtime, I cycled to Maud Gardens to meet residents, Council officers, and Cllr Kwarteng for a walkabout focused on anti‑social behaviour, cleaning issues, and estate improvements. A number of concerns were raised, and several practical actions were agreed. We will be circulating an action plan to residents and arranging a follow‑up meeting. Further walkabouts will take place across West Ham ward and elsewhere in Newham.

Weekend Community Checks & Reporting

We had planned a mobile street surgery on Saturday morning, but due to the extreme heat we decided not to knock on doors unless responding to specific issues.

Instead, I joined local ward activist Pravin to carry out checks in St Stephens and Abby Road, reporting communal issues using the Love Clean Streets app: https://lovecleanstreets.info We logged:

• Litter in play areas

• Overflowing communal bins

• Overgrown shared garden areas

• Defective entry doors

After completing her 2½‑hour surgery at Vicarage Lane Community Centre, Cllr Kwarteng joined us and we door‑knocked a road affected by recent missed domestic bin collections, likely linked to British Gas works. Residents confirmed collections had resumed, but we will follow up to ensure service failures do not recur.

🌤️ A Post‑Conference “Recovery Walk” on the Benfleet Downs & Hadleigh Marsh

Hadleigh Castle, marshes, detours and a bit of social history

After a full-on UNISON conference week & then a Newham Council Saturday, I escaped to Essex with Gill for what we optimistically called a “recovery walk” — the familiar 6.5‑mile circular route from the Essex Pathfinder Walks guidebook. We’ve done this one several times over the years, including back in 2021.

You’d think by now we’d know the starting point. You’d be wrong.

🚗 The Wrong Car Park (Again)

In true tradition, we parked at the car park near Hadleigh Castle rather than the actual start point in Hadleigh Country Park. No matter — the beauty of this walk is that you can easily join it from the Castle and adjust the route. It’s one of those forgiving circuits where a bit of improvisation doesn’t spoil the day.

For anyone planning it:

• Official start: Hadleigh Country Park car park

• Our start: The Castle car park (scenic, but technically wrong)

• Verdict: Still works perfectly well

🚶‍♂️🚶‍♀️ Downs, Marshes and a Closed Crossing

The route across the Downs and marshes is as enjoyable as ever, with big skies and wide estuary views. You can also do this as a linear walk using the C2C line — station to station across the Downs is a cracking option if you don’t want to loop back.

One hiccup:

• The railway crossing at Point B was closed, forcing a about turn detour (remember we were going opposite way around to suggested route).

• And later, at Point D, we looked at the hill climb… and decided that due to the heat discretion is the better part of valour. So we headed straight back to the Castle for lunch instead of the full ascent. No regrets.

🏰 Lunch with a View

Hadleigh Castle remains one of the most atmospheric spots in Essex — ruined, windswept, and perched above the estuary. A perfect place to sit, decompress, and enjoy the breeze.

🧵 A Bit of Social History: The Salvation Army “Labour Colony”

Nearby sits the site of the former Salvation Army Labour Colony, now a training centre and rare breeds farm (and we used its paid for car park). The history is fascinating — part Victorian social reform, part moralistic experiment, part cautionary tale. Source: https://www.workhouses.org.uk/labourcolonies/

While these colonies were often framed as benevolent attempts to “rehabilitate” unemployed men, they also reflected the harsh attitudes of the era. And when you look at some modern international equivalents — forced labour camps, coercive “work programmes”, or exploitative migrant labour systems — the parallels are uncomfortable. Today we’d call many of these practices modern slavery, and in some cases, worse.

It’s a reminder that good intentions don’t excuse systems that strip people of agency or dignity.

🌿 A Good Walk, Even with Detours

Despite the wrong start, the closed crossing, and our tactical retreat from the final hill, it was a lovely day out. Fresh air, lots of sunshine, familiar paths, and time away from everyone - exactly what a post‑conference Sunday should be.

Saturday Councillor Surgery

 

This morning I held my West Ham ward Councillor surgery at Vicarage Lane Community Centre. Arriving at 10am, I found seven residents already waiting to speak with me.

Two residents raised an urgent parking and anti-social behaviour (ASB) issue. I was able to offer practical advice on next steps and we also discussed the possibility of arranging a public meeting involving local residents, the Council, and the Police — something I am confident my ward councillor colleagues would support.

Three further residents came forward with more serious ASB concerns in the ward. I had previously spoken to one of them during the recent campaign and have already raised the matter with local Police. I will be carrying out a walkabout and inspection of the area later this week, hopefully alongside ward colleagues and relevant officers.

Another case involved a dispute over a parking ticket. While Councillors cannot normally intervene due to this being a legal process, the evidence presented suggested there may have been maladministration. I therefore agreed to raise a Members’ Enquiry requesting a review. However, I made it clear that I am not a decision-maker in this process and advised the resident not to delay any formal appeal — which they understood and agreed with.

The surgery overran, and just as I was leaving, a local resident arrived seeking help. I apologised as I had to attend another meeting in East Ham, and she was happy to follow up by email regarding her housing repair concerns.

It was a busy morning (followed by a full on afternoon meeting), but a good day. Being a Councillor can be challenging, but supporting residents as they deal with often serious issues — and doing so to the best of your ability — is both important and rewarding.

UNISON NDC 2026 - Reflections (Day Four and home)

 

NDC Day – Reflections on a Full and Moving Friday

I was up early and went for a run — well, a slow jog — east along the prom for fifteen minutes before turning back to the hotel. Warm, dry, and misty: the kind of morning that feels suspended in time. And what a way to wake up — to the news that Labour’s candidate, Andy Burnham, had won the by‑election decisively. It was a powerful reminder that you can defeat the far‑right Reform and the increasingly fascistic Restore Party with a confident, progressive left candidate who is both charismatic and competent. A real lift to start the day.

After getting back, showered, and changed, it was straight into the 8.30am NEC pre‑conference meeting. The main item was, of course, the election of the 2026/27 UNISON NEC Presidential Team. I was genuinely delighted that James, Debbie, and Micaela were elected President, Senior Vice President, and Junior Vice President respectively — and by a clear majority. A strong team for the year ahead.

Conference opened at 9.30am. The morning brought several important debates — some ill‑tempered, but most constructive, thoughtful, and focused on building rather than tearing down. With no fringes running (everyone was packing up), I used the lunch break to deal with some branch and work issues. While waiting for a sandwich in Subway, I ended up in conversation with activists in the queue about good practice in internal disciplinary procedures and a local pensions dispute. As ever, you can’t switch off from the work — and nor would I want to.

After 2pm, I spoke on Motion 65: “Men’s Mental Health Matters”, moving a friendly NEC amendment. I mentioned that I had lost male family members to suicide, and the response afterwards was deeply moving. So many people came to speak to me about their own losses — friends, brothers, fathers — and to check on my wellbeing after the speech. That, to me, is UNISON at its very best: compassion, solidarity, and the willingness to share painful truths so that we can change things together. This issue matters enormously, and I am proud that UNISON is committing to take real action. I’ll post the full motion and my amendment speech later.

Conference closed at 3.45pm with a heartfelt tribute to our outgoing President, Catherine McKenna, whose term has now ended. Catherine has been an outstanding leader — strong, no‑nonsense, principled, and deeply respected. A fitting send‑off.

Afterwards, I picked up my suitcase from the hotel and walked up to the station to head home. NDC 2027 will be in Liverpool, and I sincerely hope to be there again.

UNISON NDC 2026 - Reflections (Day Three)

 

Day three started with some early HIIT training to wake me up, followed by an NEC pre-meeting and then breakfast with my Community colleague Denise.

Conference (NDC) began at 9:30am, and thankfully the rudeness and disrespect previously shown towards our lay elected volunteers on the Conference Standing Orders Committee was far more limited today.

Throughout the day, debates were generally more thoughtful and more respectful, even on potentially controversial issues such as Palestine. Many UNISON delegates from London made excellent contributions.

At lunchtime, I attended the fringe meeting on the Employment Rights Act — quite simply the most important victory for UNISON in my entire trade union membership of over 30 years. A huge well done to everyone who played their part in achieving this.

Of course, we want more. The law is still imbalanced in favour of employers. But, for once, can we please give ourselves a collective pat on the back? This is what the Labour Movement family — unions and the Labour Party working together — can deliver: meaningful, positive, and radical change for working-class people.

I remain firmly convinced that the Housing Association and Voluntary Sector should be the next to secure a Fair Pay Agreement. Denise and I will be fighting tooth and nail to make this happen.

In the afternoon, we moved on to rule change debates. Once again, I was pleased to see further respectful but sharp discussion on issues such as reviewing subscription rates and whether LGBT+ members should have NEC seats in the same way as other Self-Organised Groups.

In the evening, I had to write a speech for tomorrow and deal with various branch and other matters. As much as I enjoy conference, I am looking forward to it closing at 4pm tomorrow. However, we then move straight on to the very important NEC Presidential Team elections — watch this space.

UNISON NDC 2026 - Reflections (Day Two)

 

Early Morning Run and NEC Conference Reflections – Brighton

It was an early start this morning with a run—well, more of a slow jog—along Brighton seafront. There’s something grounding about getting out before the day properly begins, especially ahead of a full conference schedule.

After a quick turnaround—shower, breakfast, and coffee—it was straight into the NEC pre-conference meeting. Overall, it went reasonably well. 

Next NDC. the debates were largely positive, with a number of thoughtful contributions. We also heard speeches from the new UNISON General Secretary, Andrea Egan, as well as from the General Secretary of the Palestine General Federation of Trade Unions. Both were significant contributions and set the tone for the day.

That said, I do think there are some important strategic questions we need to reflect on. In particular, I’m not convinced that there is a full appreciation of the political threat posed by Reform/Restore. Alongside that, I’m concerned that simply attacking Labour—particularly using language that labels them broadly as racist—is not a strategy that will help us achieve what we need.

If our objective is to influence Labour policy so that it aligns more closely with UNISON’s priorities, then we need to think carefully about how we do that effectively. Constructive pressure, engagement, and clarity of purpose are essential. We should always be robust in challenging where necessary, but we also need to ensure that our approach creates space for change rather than closing it down.

At lunchtime, I spent some time handing out flyers outside the conference hall for the UNISON Labour Link Social. It was a good opportunity to speak to delegates and raise awareness of the event.

The Social itself went well. With local Labour MPs attending a by-election in Manchester, we didn’t have the usual panel discussion and debate, which was a bit of a shame. However, the event still provided a valuable chance to catch up with comrades from across the union. Sometimes those informal conversations are just as important—if not more so—than the formal sessions when it comes to building relationships and shaping thinking.

All in all, a busy but worthwhile day: a mix of debate, reflection, and reconnecting with colleagues from across the movement.

Apparently there is some sort of football game going on this evening? as Welsh/Scots I have no idea but wish all UK national teams well :-) 

UNISON NDC 2026 - Reflections (Day One)

For the first time in many years, I arrived late to the start of UNISON National Delegate Conference due to other urgent matters. I am attending conference in my capacity as an elected member of the UNISON National Executive Council (NEC) for Community, representing members working in Housing Associations and the voluntary/charity sector.

Despite my late arrival, it was clear that there had been a number of strong and constructive debates on the conference floor. A range of views were expressed in what I would describe as a positive, comradely manner. In my view, this was particularly encouraging, as there is not enough space for appropriate and constructive critical debate on motions. Unfortunately, I missed some of the more controversial items due to my late arrival.

Following the close of conference, I met with members of my branch delegation—where I also serve as Branch Secretary—to deal with some important admin matters.

I then attended a fringe meeting on Responding to Reform and the Populist Right. This featured several strong contributions, including from Nick Lowles of Hope Not Hate. While the discussion recognised the very real challenges posed by the rise of Reform and other far-right elements (including more extreme groups such as Restore), it was not entirely pessimistic. There were some important positive points highlighted, particularly that the overwhelming majority of voters rejected Reform in the recent local elections, despite the party achieving some high-profile results.

A key theme from the discussion was that our response should not be to simply demonise Reform or its supporters. Instead, we should focus on clearly exposing the reality of their policy platform—namely that it would undermine core public goods and protections such as a free NHS, decent public pensions, and essential employment rights.

During the Q&A, I made the point that while I agreed with much of the optimism expressed, there is a real danger that our movement could “sleepwalk” into allowing a Reform government in the future. The current political dynamics remind me strongly of what occurred in the United States, where dissatisfaction with the Democrats for not being “perfect” contributed to the election of Donald Trump—twice. That experience underlines the risks of complacency and fragmentation on the progressive side of politics.

Conference resumes tomorrow, with the NEC pre-meeting at 8:30am and conference business recommencing for delegates at 9:30am.

West Ham Ward Panel AGM & Meeting 4.6.26

Yesterday evening myself and my Labour & Co‑op Councillor colleague Adjoa Kwarteng with Green Councillor Ibrahim Alom attended the meeting of the West Ham Ward Panel, alongside local residents and four officers from our Safer Neighbourhoods Team.

The session opened with the panel’s AGM, where residents re‑elected the Chair and confirmed all existing panel members for another year. Only residents can stand or vote, which keeps the panel firmly rooted in the community it represents.

The main discussion focused on crime and anti‑social behaviour across the ward. Residents raised a number of concerns, and councillors and the SNT were able to agree several areas of joint action — including issues on Council estate land and properties managed by local housing associations. We also received helpful guidance on what can be done to address a safety hazard at the Portway entrance to West Ham Park.

A recurring theme from residents and Councillors was the impact of a local betting shop which appears to attract ASB to the surrounding area. This will be followed up as part of the wider partnership work.

Councillors also asked for closer links with the West Ham Volunteer Police Cadets, and for details of plans for the annual PC Nina Mackay memorial event later this year, as well as the Remembrance Sunday service at All Saints Church. It would be excellent to see the cadets and local schools involved in these important community moments.

Overall, it was a constructive meeting with strong resident leadership and a clear shared commitment to improving safety and wellbeing across West Ham.

Tribute to Councillor who built trust

 A touching tribute from a resident to former Labour Stratford Councillor Sabia Kamali, who unfortunately lost her seat in last month’s elections. She was one of the most talented and dedicated Councillors I’ve ever met. I’m confident this is just a temporary setback and that she’ll be back serving her community before long.

https://newhamvoices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Newham-Voices-June-2026.pdf

Thank you dinner for Labour activists

 

A great snapshot from last week’s dinner for Labour activists in Newham, held after May’s election. It was a lovely meal with constructive feedback on the campaign. 

Many thanks to the candidates for organising such a well-supported event. 

Everyone had the chance to speak, and as Statutory Deputy Mayor, I spoke last, making it clear that while we won the Mayoral contest in Newham and Labour remains the largest political group, excellent Labour candidates unfortunately weren’t elected due to circumstances beyond their control—but we’ll be back for the next Newham Council elections in 2030, and we will win.

"What has a Labour Government ever done for us?...Employment rights reforms"

🌙 Rough Sleeper Count: A Midnight Snapshot of Life on Our Streets

 

Last Thursday evening, just before midnight, our Newham Council teams gathered once again for the latest bi‑monthly count of people sleeping rough across the borough. From midnight until 3am, staff and volunteers fanned out across known locations, not only to record numbers but to engage with people where possible.

Some colleagues (not pictured) were already stationed at key “hot spots” to speak with individuals, understand their situations, and offer support. The emphasis in these areas was not just on a head count—important as that is for understanding the scale of the issue—but on meaningful contact.

I paired up with a Council colleague to visit an area where we know rough sleeping is more prevalent. Even when you’ve done this work for years, it remains a sobering experience. Seeing vulnerable people trying to rest in noisy, exposed, polluted, and sometimes dangerous surroundings is a stark reminder of the realities many face every night.

And yet, amid the hardship, there were glimmers of hope. As we walked, my colleague shared stories of long‑term rough sleepers who, through persistent outreach and support, have moved into permanent accommodation. Those successes matter. They show what is possible when services are properly resourced, when trust is built over time, and when people are met with compassion rather than judgement.

The count is never easy, but it is necessary. It grounds us in the truth of what’s happening on our streets—and it strengthens our resolve to keep pushing for the support, housing, and long‑term solutions people deserve.

Newham Council Annual General Meeting 2026

 

A belated report on the AGM last week in the beautiful main hall of East Ham (also referred to as Newham but disputed by West Ham) Town Hall. 

We are not in my view really into "pomp and circumstance" in Newham but this is the formal Annual General meeting of the Council and I freely admit to liking appropriate local historic traditions but this meeting is also very political. 

While many do not understand that we have in Newham, a directly elected Executive Mayor, with very strong powers (I would prefer a different governance model but that boat has sailed), the AGM does elect important constitutional posts such as the Chairs of Council and of other important committees. 

The election of these important positions was disrupted by some simply bizarre and aggressive interventions by the so called "Newham Independent Group" who stormed off in the middle of the meeting because they I think they did not understand what was going on. 

In the election on May 7th, the Labour Candidate for Executive Mayor, Forhad Hussain, won convincingly and will the be Executive Mayor for the next 4 years. 

Labour is the single largest party but we did not win a majority of seats on this occasion (next time will be different). The Independents came next then the Greens. Council officers had made a recommendation to all the Groups about sharing Chairs of Council committees according to the number of seats each Group they held. 

While I would of course rather the Labour Councillors elect all Chairs that was not going to happen . I will not comment on all the discussions that went on but it is crystal clear that the independents were wheeling and dealing and for them to suggest otherwise is just hypocritical and rather silly. 

Labour and Green members voted largely to adopt the original Council officers recommendations about a fairish allocation of positions while it was clear to me that the independents did not understand that they had been given some of the most important positions in the Council outside the Executive but they still were against? 

I pointed out to them during the debate that Mayor Forhad Hussain had "put the hand of friendship out to the Independent group and to the Greens”.

However, the fact of the matter is that the Independent group did not wish to work with the mayor for the betterment of Newham and our residents.” https://www.newhamcitizen.co.uk/newham-independents-green-labour-council-roles/

Apart from this daftness the meeting ran smoothly and it was good to meet up with many comrades and guests. 

Our rights at work are under attack - Help us Stop the Steal Tuesday 2 June | 2:00 - 3:00

 

Trade union rights and renters’ rights are under attack.

Join the TUC and guest speakers for a webinar on the #StopTheSteal campaign and how union reps can help defend hard-won protections at work and at home. We’ll discuss what proposed attacks on employment and housing rights could mean in practice, how reps can organise effective conversations in workplaces and communities, and why solidarity between workers and renters matters more than ever. You’ll hear about Stop the Steal’s day of action on 11th June, with workers across the UK putting up Stop the Steal posters on their noticeboards at work or at home. This helps to raise awareness about the threat of the Great Repeal Bill. This session is for anyone who wants to help build collective resistance to insecure work, low rights, and unfair housing. We want everyone attending TUC events to have a safe and enjoyable experience. If you require any adjustments or assistance to participate at this event, please let us know at TUCEducation@tuc.org.uk Live captions will be available during the webinar.

https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/3517768511757/WN_TJtJfWltSDmlU1rMQqhmTg?mc_cid=5ca57508be&mc_eid=3ad1a32733#/registration

Labour Unions - Join us to campaign for Andy Burnham in the Makerfield by-election

 

Join us to campaign for Andy Burnham in the Makerfield by-election.

Help Labour win.

Working people are crying out for change. That’s why policies like the New Deal for Working People are so important.

Andy Burnham is standing because he believes that communities like Makerfield deserve better.

But make no mistake, this by-election will be a straight fight between Labour and Reform, and every vote will count. With Reform throwing everything at Makerfield, we need trade union activists out in force, making calls, knocking on doors and delivering leaflets, making the positive case for change and pushing back on their politics of division.

Hear from leading voices across the movement and join the campaign on Sunday 31 May.  Full details coming soon.  Sign up ↓

Makerfield Trade Union Campaign Day - Sunday 31 May, 1pm

https://labourunions.org.uk/makerfield-campaign-day/

(I am hoping to be there to help out) 

🚲 A Sunday Morning in West Ham: Community, Conversation and a Rossi with the Mayor

 

Sunday started early with a cycle over to my ward and a hearty breakfast at the Plaistow Café — the kind of place where the tea is strong, the portions generous, and the conversations even better.

From there I joined local residents for a site visit at a long‑derelict plot in West Ham where they hope to build a much‑needed community centre. I made clear that I’ll be a critical friend to the project: supportive, experienced, and honest about what specialist advice and guidance they’ll need to turn a great idea into a real, sustainable asset for local people. My ward colleague Cllr Adjoa Kwarteng could not attend but will be organising another site visit.

Next stop was West Ham Park, where I met our newly elected Executive Mayor, Forhad Hussain. We treated ourselves to a Rossi ice cream and took a walk around the park. It felt a bit like accompanying a film star — every few steps someone stopped to congratulate him, shake his hand, or ask for a selfie. The warmth and pride from residents was unmistakable.

A good Sunday: community at its best, people with ambition for their neighbourhood, and a Mayor who clearly connects with those he serves.

🚶‍♂️ A Return to North Weald: Forgotten Paths, Hidden Forts and a 450‑Year‑Old Pub

 

After finishing my Councillor surgery yesterday, Gill and I drove out to North Weald for a 4.7‑mile circular walk — a route we first did in 1998, again in 2011, and then somehow managed to forget entirely. It begins near the historic North Weald Railway Station and winds through quiet, open countryside that feels far more remote than its distance from London would suggest.

One stretch follows the line of a long‑lost Roman road. As we walked, we spotted deer pretending to be statutes, red kites circling overhead, and one particularly assertive hare who sat bolt upright within 50 metres of us, fully aware of our presence but entirely unimpressed by it. He held his ground until we passed, as if he owned the area.

What truly astonished me, though, was stumbling across the site of the "North Weald Redoubt" — one of 13 late‑19th‑century forts built around 1896 to defend London from invasion. Despite my strong interest in local history, I am slightly ashamed to admit that I had no idea these forts existed. The main site is shut off as "dangerous" for whatever reason but it is a reminder of a period when Britain feared attack from continental Europe long before the world wars reshaped those anxieties. (Reference: https://www.visiteppingforest.org/things-to-do/north-weald-redoubt-p1833191 )

Nearby fields were also dotted with dozens of seemingly random concrete blocks. I have never seen anything like it? At first I assumed they were part of the Victorian defensive system or perhaps connected to the nearby "Battle of Britain" airfield. But it appears they may have been anchoring points for very early post first world war Marconi telecommunications masts — though information is sparse and the truth remains a little unclear. A small mystery for another day.

We ended the walk in the rear garden of The Kings Head, one of the oldest pubs in Essex. Parts of the building date back nearly 450 years. The main structure — a beautiful half‑timbered building — was constructed in the 17th century using old ships’ timbers. Sitting there with a drink in the late afternoon sun felt like the perfect way to finish a walk steeped in layers of history.

A forgotten route rediscovered, and a reminder that even in places we think we know, there is always more to learn.

🟣 West Ham Ward Labour & Co‑op Councillors - Our First Advice Surgery of the New Term

 

This morning Adjoa Kwarteng and I held our first free, confidential advice surgery of the new term as your West Ham Ward Labour & Cooperative Councillors.

We’re pleased to confirm that our weekly face‑to‑face surgeries will now take place at:

Vicarage Lane Community Centre

Govier Road, E15 4HW

The centre has been newly refurbished and will soon be available for private bookings — a great asset for our community.

Weekly Drop‑In Surgeries

Every Saturday, 10–11am

(No appointment needed. Closed on Bank Holiday weekends.)

Either Adjoa or I will always be there to help with council issues, casework, or local concerns.

We’ll also be publishing dates for virtual and telephone surgeries shortly, to make sure everyone can reach us in the way that suits them best.

Contact Us Anytime

John Gray

John.Gray@newham.gov.uk

020 3373 2615

Adjoa Kwarteng

Adjoa.Kwarteng@newham.gov.uk

020 3373 1539

Ward Newsletter

We’ll be sending out a regular West Ham Ward newsletter.

If you’d like to receive it, just email us with your name and address. If you want to add your mobile number that would also be great.

We promise not to spam you — only useful local updates.