General election 2017: Make our UNISON members’ voices heard

Make sure members are registered to vote by 22 May; Use our new campaign guide for branches and activists

The general election is just five weeks away. It is vital that UNISON members make their voices heard – which means making sure as many as possible are registered to vote before the deadline of 22 May. Click https://www.gov.uk/register-to-vote to register within 5 minutes (You may need the following, if you have them: your National Insurance number your passport if you’re a British citizen living abroad) If members can't or are unwilling to vote in person on 8 June, they can also request a postal vote – as long as they are registered and the request is received by 23 May. Remember that the Lobbying Act means new restrictions on how and when UNISON can campaign directly to the public.  But we know we are at our most effective when talking to our own members about the issues UNISON has real authority to speak on – public services and the jobs and pressures faced by those who provide them. So UNISON has produced a new guide to campaigning between now and 8 June for union branches and activists. Make sure you download and read it. DOWNLOAD the full campaigning guide for branches

No whingers - National Register to Vote Day

This morning on Breakfast TV there was a really, really sensible and articulate young man on why everyone should register and vote.

My view of course is if you don't vote then don't complain or whinge about anything to do with the government or local councils. 

Such winging without even voting once every 4 years is frankly pathetic. But is your choice. 

But remember that millions of Brits have died for your right to vote. 

Don't disrespect them.

A family member of mine has a Zero hour employment contract on minimum wage. She lives in marginal Tory constituency. I asked her if she voted at the last general election and she and her partner said no.