UNISON now has over 3,000 active Learning Representatives. They are a major resource in helping to encourage lifelong learning at work. The role of the ULR is recognised in law and attracts certain rights. They can play a vital role in:

• raising the profile and importance of lifelong learning with UNISON members
• providing support to workers who are studying
• negotiating with employers for special facilities for learning and learners in the workplace
• identifying and promoting relevant courses and programmes that help members return to learn and improve their job satisfaction and career prospects.

Become a UNISON Learning Representative

If you are interested in:

• helping those who are keen to take up learning opportunities
• working with other UNISON members in your local UNISON branch to promote learning

contact UNISON direct on 0845 355 0845 and ask for the number of your regional education officer. Or ask your local UNISON branch for information.

We recognise the key role ULRs play in making UNISON members aware of what the partnership can offer. For this reason we have created a leaflet entitled Working together to improve access to learning opportunities, which is specifically to support ULRs in their role. This summarises the key OU courses on offer to the health and social care sector, the support members can expect from UNISON and the funding options available. You can view an electronic copy of this leaflet by clicking on the link below or you can contact us at HSC-UNISON@open.ac.uk and request printed copies to be sent directly to you.

Working together to improve access to learning opportunities

We hope that ULRs will find this website helpful. There is up-to-date information and advice on courses and the support offered through the OU/UNISON partnership. We also highlight new opportunities and ways to promote flexible and innovative short sessions for members that can generate interest in learning and the opportunities ensuing from the OU/UNISON partnership.

In addition lots more information is available from UNISON ULRnet.

UNISON ULRnet – connecting ULRs

UNISON ULRnet is the Learning and Organising Services dedicated website for UNISON Learning Representatives. The website has been designed to encourage an online community of ULRs across all the UNISON regions and to offer information and resources to help support them in their role.

What can I find on UNISON ULRnet?

• A network of ULRs
• Online Learning and Organising Services information, resources and materials
• Access to resources for ULRs
• Specialist information about organising around learning

How can UNISON ULRnet support ULRs?

UNISON ULRnet is designed specifically to help ULRs in their role. It allows easy access to resources and documents, as well as providing a platform for information, communication and networking.

The site includes information on specialist subjects, which are changed on a regular basis, such as information on Adult Learners Week or updates on Skills for Life issues.

How will ULRs be able to use the website?

UNISON ULRnet is a password protected, nationally moderated site. It is only available to UNISON ULRs, so all users need to complete a registration form to join the site.

If you are a UNISON ULR and would like join the site please contact:

Jane Shepherd
Learning and Workforce Development Officer
Learning and Organising Services
1 Mabledon Place, London WC1H 9AJ

tel: 020 7551 1679
email: j.shepherd@unison.co.uk