1. Challenges and Priorities A Regional Perspective
Clare Williams UNISON Northern Regional Secretary National Schools Seminar 3 May 2017
Challenges and Priorities
A Regional Perspective

2. UNISON Northern Region
Largest trade union in North East
High level of participation from women in lay structures
Leading role in Northern TUC
Formed Public Service Alliance – 8 local coalitions and Chair of the steering group
Strong partnership with other campaigning organisations such as
Robust political relationships with Labour MPs (26 out of 29), Councillors and Labour Group Leaders

3. Northern Region organising context
High level of public sector employment
Since 2010 Coalition and Conservative Government policies of Austerity had a disproportionate impact in region and on public sector jobs
Over 60,000 public sector jobs lost and essential services
Region has highest rate of unemployment
High level of young people not in employment or able to access further training
Set out understand the question and develop rapport with the panel

4. Organising challenges
Education funding cuts – impacts on school budgets and staff numbers
Privatisation of education – increase in multi-agency academies
Fragmentation – how keep in touch with such large number of schools
Competitor unions

5. Our Response Organising Priorities and initiatives
Regional Schools Forum
Regional newsletters/communications to school based staff
General Fighting Fund project in schools to increase profile, membership and activist base
Stars in Schools
TA Professional Standards project
Durham TA dispute and campaign
Working with other education unions on funding cuts

6. Shout Out to Durham TAs