UNISON is Scotland’s largest public sector trade union representing around 160,000 members delivering services in the public, community and private sector across Scotland.

What is a trade union?

A trade union is a group of working people who have joined together to achieve better pay and working conditions and a safer working environment.

Trade unions negotiate with employers on behalf of union members to agree wages, work rules, complaint procedures, rules governing hiring, firing and promotion of workers, benefits, workplace safety and other policies.

In recent years, unions have campaigned for and won:

● a national minimum wage
● improved parental leave provisions
● equality legislation
● laws on reasonable working hours
● minimum holiday and sickness entitlements
● health and safety in the workplace

You can think of trade unions as your insurance policy for work.

UNISON is the trade union for all public service workers even if they work for voluntary organisations or private companies; we believe in:

• Equality – we are all different, but we all deserve to be treated with respect and fairness.  UNISON is structured to encourage participation from members in equality groups.
• All of our voices should be heard in solidarity – we work together to support each other at work.
• Our members have a right to make the decisions that shape their union participation.
• We aim to share our skills, commitment and creativity to build a stronger union.

UNISON in Dumfries & Galloway

We have around 5000 members in Dumfries and Galloway, with Branch Officers, Stewards and Health & Safety Reps located throughout the region you have a strong local Branch support network ready to help you wherever and whenever you need us.

Locally, UNISON reps have negotiated far better than statutory minimum terms and conditions for members in their workplaces.  Please join us and support your colleagues in attaining better working conditions – Together, we are stronger.

If you are looking for support in your workplace in these uncertain times  Join UNISON today.