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Young Organisers Network in Croyde, Sep 2024

TUC SW Young Organisers' Network

The Young Organisers' Network is a solidarity and training space for young activists from TUC-affiliated unions. We grapple with the challenges facing young workers today, get our hands dirty with organising and training, and deepen youth engagement in all areas of the trade union movement.

Join the Young Organisers' Network here!

Recognising that many young workers make a start in precarious and low-paid work, the network weaves elements of training and development alongside the general principle of a network of solidarity.

It aims to give our young activists a jumpstart on organising skills, provide a space to share what impacts them, and cultivate a safe environment to workshop plans and strategy for effective workplace organising.

Who is eligible to join?

Any young person who is a member of a TUC affiliated union living or working in the South West Region. The definition of "young member" in this instance is being accepted as - if your union considers you a young member, then so do we.

Union members do not have to be active reps in order to be eligible to join the network.

You will need sign-off from a union officer to join the network.

What does the network do?

The inaugural year of the network has seen young workers build a foundation through a guided online webinar series paired with unique seminars; plus visits to Bristol for networking and organising practice, a delegation to Norway to learn about workplace patrolling, and a Strategic Planning Residential in September to bring everything together and work collectively to tackle the unique challenges of individuals' workplaces. In 2025 we will travel to Plymouth together to do outreach on health and safety, coordinate a training "summer camp" weekend and deepen our engagement in the Tolpuddle Martyrs' Festival (the largest union festival in the UK).

Is there a cost to join the network?

Online webinars and training sessions are organised and provided by the TUC South West. Travel and accommodation and other expenses to attend these should be financially supported by your union or branch in the first instance.
Please reach out to the TUC South West if costs are a concern to your involvement with the Network.

Is there a closing date to sign up to the network?

Registration does not close; this is a network rather than a training programme. We have measures in place to ensure new participants can get caught up with the programme. This is to ensure maximum accessibility for a group of workers disproportionately in areas with high workplace turnover.

How do I sign up?

Fill in this expression of interest form. Please ensure your union is aware of your application; if this is a challenge, we will work with you to secure their support for your involvement in the network.

I have further questions about the Network. How can I contact you to discuss them?

Reach out to Sadie Fulton at sfulton@tuc.org.uk to discuss any questions you may have.

Key Dates

W/C 10 Feb (HeartUnions Week, exact date TBC)   Safety patrol, Plymouth
March (exact dates TBC)   Joint organising weekend with TUC Wales
April   Network discussion on Tolpuddle
May   Workplace patrol
June   Network discussion on training weekend
June   Likely young workers' delegation to Norway
18-20 July   Tolpuddle Martyrs' Festival
29-31 Aug   Young Workers' Training Weekend

Join the Young Organisers' Network here!