date: 25 July 2008

embargo: For immediate release

TUC launches new training programme to boost network of equality reps

A TUC co-ordinated training programme, announced at the recent equalities reps conference, has been set up to further boost the growing network of union equality reps in workplaces across the UK.

The new training programme, which takes place between September and December at venues across the UK, will train new and potential equality reps on how to handle key workplace issues, such as flexible working, equal pay, bullying, harassment and discrimination. The TUC is aiming to train up to 400 equality reps in the first three months of the project.

The expansion of equality reps was a key recommendation of the Women and Work Commission, which recognised the importance the importance of equality reps in delivering equality in workplaces. The TUC training programme has been funded by the Government Equalities Office.

TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber said: 'Workforces dominated by white able-bodied males are increasingly becoming a relic of the past so diversity today is as much a business need as a social goal. But many employers could do with the help of more equality reps to help change workplace culture.

'From help with flexible working requests, to tackling discrimination and harassment, equality reps are playing a vital role in delivering equality where it matters most - on the shop floor.

'We want as many reps as possible to sign up for our equality rep training courses and together we will help to create a better workplace environment for all workers.'

NOTES TO EDITORS:

- Equality rep training courses are taking place between September and December in the following towns and cities; London, Norwich, Southampton, Nottingham, Solihull, Bradford, Hull, Rotherham, Bristol, Taunton, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Liverpool, Manchester, Preston and Warrington.

- To find out more about the equality reps training programme please contact TUC Equality reps officer Teresa Daly on T: 020 4767 1350 or E: tdaly@tuc.org.uk

- All TUC press releases can be found at www.tuc.org.uk

- Register for the TUC's press extranet: a service exclusive to journalists wanting to access pre-embargo releases and reports from the TUC. Visit www.tuc.org.uk/pressextranet

- Congress 2008 will be held at the Brighton Centre, Brighton from Monday 8 September to Thursday 11 September. All applications for media passes must be received no later than noon Tuesday 2 September. Any applications received after this date will be processed in Brighton and subject to a £50 administration fee. The form for media credentials, plus information on how to book wireless internet access and a phone line at the Brighton Centre can be accessed at www.tuc.org.uk/mediacredentials

Contacts:

Media enquiries:
Liz Chinchen T: 020 7467 1248 M: 07778 158175 E: media@tuc.org.uk
Rob Holdsworth T: 020 7467 1372 M: 07717 531150 E: rholdsworth@tuc.org.uk

Press release (500 words) issued 25 Jul 2008