Usdaw commits to developing a network of support for equality reps to ensure they have the time to help colleagues facing inequalities and discrimination and contribute to positive changes in workplaces.
 
Responding to a debate on qualities issues at the Usdaw Annual Delegate Meeting in Blackpool’s Winter Gardens, Dave McCrossen – Usdaw Deputy General Secretary said: “Usdaw is focused on the vital role that union equality reps can play in helping to promote fairness at work, being part of the wider rep team and helping to recruit, organise and represent members.
 
“In many workplaces equality reps act as the 'equality lens' in the workplace, helping to raise awareness of equality issues with the employer and acting as a reassuring presence for members who may face discrimination or harassment.
 
“We welcome Labour's commitment to legislating for statutory rights for union equality reps so that they will be on an equal footing with health and safety reps and shop stewards. Usdaw is fully committed to supporting the development of a network of union equality reps.”
 
Notes for editors:
 
Usdaw (Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers) is one of the fastest growing unions in the TUC and the UK's fifth biggest trade union with around 360,000 members. Most Usdaw members work in the retail sector, but the union also has many members in transport, distribution, food manufacturing, chemical industry and other trades www.usdaw.org.uk
 
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