13 November 2024 2:30pm–4:00pm
Online
This Ace/Aro Awareness session is designed by UNISON’s national LGBT+ committee as a safe space for members to learn about some of the + identities.
It covers terminology, what being ace/aro means (and what it doesn’t mean), the issues faced by people identifying as ace/aro in and out of work and how to be an ally to ace/aro members. There will be the opportunity for questions, with none being silly.
Ace is the abbreviation of asexual, a term used specifically to describe a lack of, varying, or occasional experiences of sexual attraction. Aro is short for aromantic – used to describe having little or no romantic feeling towards others. You can find out more with this factsheet.
Why it's a workplace issue
Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect and should be able to bring their whole selves to work. But a recent Stonewall survey found that just one in five ace/aro people have had a positive experience coming out at work.
A lack of information and education about ace/aro people are a contributing factor to this, which puts the responsibility on ace/aro people to educate co-workers.
Sometimes this can lead to inappropriate curiosity by colleagues, which then can lead to bullying and harassment at work.
Can I get time off to learn?
Yes, if you are in a recognised workplace the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 and the 1997 Safety Representative and Safety Committee Regulations give you the right to time off with pay to attend trade union courses. You just have to give your employer reasonable notice.
Guidance towards establishing what constitutes reasonable time off can be found in the ACAS Code of Practice.
Online learning is not an alternative to paid release from work. The law still applies, whether learning takes place away from work or in work, at a workstation or in a company learning centre.
If you’re having difficulty accessing paid time off please contact your local branch.
What will the course cost?
The cost is free to UNISON Eastern members.
Sign me up!
Please register using the link below. We will be in touch to confirm your place.