Black workers are more likely to be trade union members, yet they remain under-represented 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 Yorkshire & the Humber is offering an exciting new development programme for the next generation of black activists from across the Yorkshire & the Humber region.

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.
• A mentoring scheme.

Programme dates

The programme will take place over 4 months from September 2023. The session dates, times and locations are as follows: 

• 19th & 20th September / 10am-4.30pm / TUC Leeds Office
• 7th & 8th November / 10am - 4.30pm / TUC Leeds Office
• 15th & 16th November / 10am - 4.30pm / Leeds (venue tbc)
• 20th & 21st November / 9.30am - 5.00pm / London (overnight accommodation on 19th and 20th)
• 5th December / 10am - 4.30pm / TUC Leeds Office

Who can apply?

We welcome applications from trade union members, activists and reps, who work or live in the Yorkshire & the Humber 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 deadline for applications is Thursday 14 September 2023, at 12pm.

*The term Black is used in a broad political and inclusive sense to describe people in the UK who have suffered from colonialism and enslavement in the past and continue to experience racism and diminished opportunities in today’s society.

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 jwheatley@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

Costs are involved when participating in this programme, but these should be covered by your union, not by you.

To ensure this, participants should approach their respective trade union and/or branch to sponsor them. As part of this sponsorship the union will need to agree to:

• Cover the travel expenses to and from training dates (including to and from London), and
• Agree to pay £500 to TUC Yorkshire & the Humber which will be used to fund accommodation and food costs during the in-person training days and training materials.

Participants must secure union/branch sponsorship prior to submitting your application form. The application form will also ask you to provide contact details of the individual union official who can administer and/or sign off on your sponsorship/financial support.

What if my union refuses to pay/can’t afford it?

We do not wish for costs to be a barrier. So, if you are concerned your union has insufficient funds, please get in touch with the TUC Yorkshire & the Humber team so we can discuss options.

We want everyone attending TUC events to have a safe and enjoyable experience. If you require any adjustments or assistance to participate at this event, please let us know.