Courses

How Do I Get Time Off

Time Off For Training
Stewards, health and safety reps, union learning reps and branch officers have the right to paid time off for training in their union duties in most workplaces. This also applies to part time activists and those who take part in on-line courses.

UNISON advises activists to give several weeks notice to employers and to provide managers with information about the course as required.

Statutory rights to time of for members, workplace contacts and equality reps do not exist. However, from April 2010 all employees have the right to request time off to attend training. Your branch may be able to negotiate time off for these groups of our members as part of a learning agreement with your employer.

If you or your branch, are experiencing difficulties in obtaining time off for trade union training contact your Regional Organiser or Regional Education Officer.