Delegates should be aware of the ongoing challenges related to facility time for union reps. Many reps, including those with limited facility time (e.g., 15 hours per week), face the enormous responsibility of supporting members through highly complex and emotionally charged cases. This work often involves providing immediate emotional support to distressed members, sometimes during crisis moments.
The emotional toll on reps is significant, yet access to adequate support is limited. Confidentiality rules like GDPR restrict the ability to seek help through workplace health services, and existing occupational health provisions often do not fully meet the unique needs of union reps or the members they support.
This situation underscores the urgent need for better recognition of the emotional labor involved in union representation and improved support systems for reps working within constrained facility time.
Delegates are encouraged to bring forward ideas and campaign priorities to enhance support for union reps and protect facility time as a vital resource for effective member representation.