Highland first council to sign learning agreement

by Ian Allen, Highland Union Learning Rep

Highland Council has become the first local council in Scotland, in signing an agreement with trade unions, to offer their staff an opportunity to access lifelong learning opportunities within the workplace.

This agreement has taken several months of hard work and cross union working plus constant negotiating with council officials.

Liz Mackay, UNISON Highland Branch secretary, said "The Government is placing great emphasis on learning in the workplace. This agreement marks a significant opportunity for everyone who works for the council. Whether they sit at a computer, protect the environment, or care for older people, children or vulnerable citizens, employees have the chance to learn new skills and be supported by their employer."

Highland Council considers the agreement to be a "worthwhile initiative" and wants to help "develop the potential of all staff".

Lifelong learning is open to everyone and, like UNISON, does not discriminate on the grounds of age, sex, race, religion, disability or gender. Learning should be fun and accessible to all!

If you have members that would benefit from learning a new skill or need further information on how we can help then get in touch with your nearest ULR.

More details of Highland's Learning Agreement by contacting the Resource Centre on 01463 715891

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