The following is an account of a discussion with Jon on his role as a Unite Union Representative and impact on:

• the workplace
• the union as a whole
• the members
• the organisations business and value added.

I have attended Derby Trade Union Education Centre for many years and have completed my Health and Safety Stage 1 and 2 plus Union Representatives Stage 1 and 2.I have also completed a number of short courses training to support my Union Representative responsibilities. I have found the Johnson Building where the courses are held to be very comfortable, with good facilities and a good place to study.

I have enjoyed all training courses undertaken and as a mature learner recognise the value of returning to learning after a long period of not being active. This has re-kindled my passion for learning. My Health and Safety qualifications have enabled me to be recognised by Management and I am often sought out by members with issues to raise. I am able to support members and management and my self-confidence has improved greatly as a consequence. Other workplace colleagues have been sent on courses at Derby as a consequence of my attendance at Derby TU Centre.

Within my role as a Machinist at Rolls Royce in Derby, I have found that skills learnt on training have been transferred as a benefit to both members and the organisation who I work for. Good working relationships have been fostered with management and members.

I am more confident in –

• working with external contractors and maintaining standards
• working with H&S data for improvements
• seeking improvements through agreed H&S checklists with management
• H&S site tours with management.

The skills and associated knowledge gained from training has been transferred to my work role also; this has been acknowledged by Senior Managers and is seen as a benefit to the Company.

Within the Department I feel I am more valued and respected as a consequence within my union role and by management.

With the knowledge gained Union members value and respect me as a Representative and we are now able to get them on board with the value and benefits Union membership brings. My Union, Unite has been supportive and offered financial help in order for me to develop further.

I have inspired others to learn more and to look at being a Union Rep themselves. I will use my personal experience and check on others so that they receive the training they need.

I have been inspired to learn more and will be looking at progression courses for my future development at Derby Trade Union Education Centre.

Jon Yardley