Branch chair training

6 July 2021 1:00am

The Branch Chair facilitates branch and committee meetings.  This online course is for all new UNISON Branch Chair Officers.

Who is the course for?

The course is for all new UNISON branch chairs, or any other branch officers that are interested in learning the role.

What will the course help me to do?

  • Understand the range of roles assumed by the chair – both formal and informal,
  • Identify the skills associated with chairing a meeting, both face to face and virtual,
  • Summarise the knowledge needed for the role.

When does the course run?

The online sessions will take place from 10am to 12 noon on

  • 6 July 2021
  • 8 July 2021
  • 12 July 2021

You will be expected to attend all three sessions to complete the course.

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 must give your employer reasonable notice.

Guidance can be found in the ACAS Codes of Practice.

Can I get time off for online courses?

Yes. 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 are having difficulty accessing paid time off, please contact your local branch.

How much is the course?

There is a small charge of £30.  Your branch will fund this cost and they will be invoiced once you have completed the course.

Sign me up!

  • If you’re not sure what branch you’re in, please check UNISON’s branch finder.