A new narrative for tssa and unions

Progress report published on the blog (probably) on 17th May.

Remembering Prescott’s mantra – traditional values in a modern setting - if there’s to be a modern take on trade unions (and trade feels a bit out of date these days), a new 21st century workplace charter or narrative, might it be –

1. Respect at work: Nonsense often happens at the workplace; you could use a service to help you if nonsense happens to you; and you can be more confident in yourself and colleagues if you know you’re supported; we all deserve respect at work (including not expecting people to work excess for the sake of a job or a career), and we should campaign for that respect to be at every workplace everywhere (and not just predominantly in the public sector).

2. Better management: There should be a new expectation of management that means all in managerial roles should be trained up and be clear on ambition, planning, performance, capacity, culture, capability and legitimacy; we should expect those in responsibility to be accountable for their actions - law and regulation can only take us so far.

3. Better commerce: Not enough of the wealth generated is staying with the people whose labour is enabling the wealth to be generated; we should look to the modern economies that see worker representatives involved to effect in the direction of their concerns.

4. Better quality of life: it is natural that unions should seek representation in Parliament and other representative bodies; including to meet wider aims of improving quality of life generally, and specifically ensuring local jobs for local people (our friends, relatives and neighbours).

I liked the idea of a new name for the union of transaction.eu suggested at the Llandudno conference; a recognition of Ireland, a twist on the words transport and action; and a more general name that certainly embraces I.T.