Workplace learning should be there for all

Jim Burnett

By Kate Ramsden

Workplace learning is in great demand and has encouraged many employees who would not otherwise have considered it into learning and development opportunities.

Delegates commended the key role played by trade unions and the STUC and called on employers to support the learning agenda and grant time off for Union learning Reps (ULRs) to carry out their duties. The STUC will also campaign for improved legal rights for ULRs and a compulsory levy to fund workplace learning.

Jim Burnett, who chairs UNISON Scotland's Learning and Organising Committee, told delegates of the work UNISON is doing to promote workplace learning.

UNISON has over 300 ULRs in over 50 branches to encourage members into learning, to help identify learning needs and to provide learning opportunities. They also help branches negotiate Learning Partnerships, including time off.

"And many ULRs are undertaking further development such as everyday skills and dyslexia identification which will not only enhance their own skills but, more importantly, enhance the skills of their colleagues, both at work and in their home environment", said Jim.

He warned, however, that more needs to be done, particularly among low paid women members, many of whom are over 40 and who often work part-time - groups traditionally excluded from learning.

"UNISON believes in equal opportunities for all to access lifelong learning which leads to a more informed, educated and upskilled workforce", said Jim, calling for the development and expansion of the learning agenda with sustained and appropriate funding.

top | STUC Index