Branch Secretary
The branch secretary (rule G4.2), is responsible for ensuring the proper
completion of the following tasks. It is not expected that, especially in larger
branches, the branch secretary will personally undertake all these functions but
will act as the strategic lead officer and co-ordinator within the branch. The
secretary will encourage partnership working within the branch committee and the
development of new representatives, will be the manager of branch staff and will
manage the delegation of work to other branch officers and branch staff as
appropriate, whilst providing support and guidance.
Tasks relating to the office of branch secretary:
- to guide the branch’s development through the preparation and
implementation of a branch organisation and development plan
- to ensure the representation of members within the branch in accordance
with national guidance (see
UNISON guide to representation, and stock no 2426) and that case forms and applications for services
forwarded to UNISON offices are properly completed and authorised
- to convene and attend all meetings of the branch and branch committee.
- to arrange for the minutes of meetings to be kept in a proper manner and
circulated to all branch officers and stewards
- to arrange for branch records to be kept in a proper manner
l to ensure the branch, speedily and accurately, processes applications for
membership and maintains records in accordance with UNISON’s systems
- to ensure regular communication with the members of the branch with news
of campaigns, negotiations, issues, branch developments and activities
- to communicate with the union’s regional and head offices on behalf of
the branch
- to ensure that branch members are aware of opportunities to participate
in the activities of the wider union, or within self-organisation if
appropriate
- to support, mentor and encourage the stewards in the branch on an
individual and collective basis. The branch secretary should seek to meet
with each steward on a one-to-one basis,
- to discuss issues and workplace organisation, on a six-monthly basis l
to ensure that members and stewards are aware, and take advantage, of
educational and training opportunities within UNISON
- to ensure that appropriate publicity activities are developed and
co-ordinated by the branch
- to act as spokesperson for the branch when in contact with other levels
of the union and external organisations
- to ensure that members receive the benefits, rights and services to
which they are entitled
- to co-ordinate all branch negotiations and industrial relations matters
- to ensure, in conjunction with the branch committee, that the branch
observes the union’s rules, supports UNISON campaigns and works towards
achieving UNISON’s objectives
- to ensure the proper management and direction of any branch employed
staff.
Click here
for details about training to help undertake this role.
