Black workers are more likely to be trade union members, yet they remain underrepresented as union reps, activists, staff, officers, political leaders and change makers.
If we want the trade union movement to truly reflect the workers it represents and to bring about effective change for all, then we need to remove the barriers that prevent Black members from becoming active, developing and advancing within the movement.
TUC London, East and South East (LESE) is offering an exciting programme for the next generation of Black activists from across the LESE region. This is the second running of the programme after a succesful pilot in 2024.
Aim of the programme
The aim of this programme is to identify, empower and enable Black members and activists interested in doing so, to step forward within the movement.
It will also help the TUC to continue to learn what the trade union movement should be doing better in order to ensure the movement reflects and represents its diverse membership.
What will participants gain from completing the programme?
The programme will enable participants to develop the knowledge, skills and networks they need to become active or progress within the movement.
The programme will cover the following:
- Understanding union structures and how to navigate them.
- Identify and breaking through barriers.
- Organising for power – building and maintaining your unions strength and effectiveness.
- Running successful campaigns.
- Communicating as an effective trade unionist.
- Becoming an effective leader.
- Making change through politics.
The programme will also provide networking opportunities with leading union officials and political figures.
Programme dates
The programme will take place over six days from March to July 2025. Programme dates are:
- Monday 10 March
- Monday 31 March
- Monday 28 April
- Monday 19 May
- Monday 16 June
- Monday 14 July
Most of the training programme will take place in Congress House, London WC1B 3LW, but there may be one or two days that take place elsewhere.
Who is this course aimed at?
This programme will suit any trade unionist looking to step up into a new role or position of influence within their branch and/or union.
The programme is open to all members of TUC affiliated trade unions only.
Who can apply?
We welcome applications from trade union members, activists, reps, and officers who work or live in the London, East and South-East region and self-identify as *Black.
We would like to see applications from trade unionists who are keen to broaden their skills, advance in their roles and union, and help us achieve the changes we need to make the working world fairer, more equal, and just.
*The term Black is used in a broad political and inclusive sense to describe people in the UK from backgrounds who have suffered from colonialism and enslavement in the past and continue to experience racism and diminished opportunities in today’s society.
Application deadline
Please ensure your application is submitted by 23:59 on Sunday, 12 January 2025.
Applicants will be notified of whether they will be invited to participate in the programme by the start of February 2025.
We expect a high number of applications and unfortunately will not be able offer all applicants a place on the programme. Preference will be given to applicants who provide information on their trade union experience (even if it is none) and explain why they are applying to the programme.
This programme is designed for newer trade unionists. Therefore, preference will also be given to applicants who are towards the start of their journey in our movement.
Applicants are advised to speak to their branch or regional office at the point of application about securing release from work to attend the six programme dates (see above) if their application is successful.
Nominating someone to take part
If you know someone who would be perfect for this programme, we welcome referrals from trade union officials.
Simply email lese@tuc.org.uk with their full name and email address and we will reach out to them with all the information and details on how to apply.
We have found that in previous programmes a formal nomination greatly boosts the confidence and potential of those being nominated, helps further recognise their role in the union and also means we can help support them during the application stage.
If you do wish to nominate someone, please do so as soon as possible so that the individual has enough time to complete and send in their application to us.
Cost/union sponsorship
Therefore, we are asking participant's respective trade union and/or branch to support the participant and agree to cover travel expenses to and from training dates.
Some unions may also wish to cover other individual costs if and as required by the student (e.g. lunch costs; child care, etc). This is at the discretion of the union or branch.
The TUC will cover all other remaining costs of the programme, including meeting room bookings, tutor salary and guest speakers.
Participants are encouraged to secure union/branch support prior to submitting their application form. The application form will also ask you to give the contact details of the individual union official who supports your application, though we also welcome applications from those who have not yet spoken with their union about this programme.
TUC LESE Regional Office
Congress House
23-28 Great Russell St
London
WC1B 3LW
United Kingdom
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