Read Logistics UK 'The Logistics Report Summary 2024'
3 Know the facts about recording your Driving Hours .
General Secretary's Page
By the time you read this we will have endured a General Election to select our local MP for another five-year term. With the rise of right-wing political parties across Europe (‘Wheels’ – December 2023) in the past three years, you cannot have escaped news of the growth of ‘Reform UK’ in the UK. Some of you reading this may have voted for your local ‘Reform UK’ candidate. If you are a member reading this living in Clacton, you may have indeed voted for Nigel Farage.
Whatever your politics, the emphasis by right-wing parties across Europe, in seeking to curb migration, means they are undoubtedly attempting to ‘push water’ up a hill!! There are major migratory movements all over the world. Migration is nothing new, it is something that has always existed. We are all aware how the great famine in Europe gave rise to mass migration to the USA and Australia. Among other things the failed potato harvests in Ireland in the mid-19th Century ensured that a closeknit Irish community exists across the oceans to this very day. Rarely do people leave a country for pleasure. Migration is the result of wars, poverty, famine and hopelessness. The right are undoubtedly riding the wave of the anti-European sentiments held by parts of the electorate.
Yet if you drive a truck in the UK, the hand of Europe is all over our industry. The driving and rest period rules that determine how long a professional driver may drive at one stretch before having to take a rest. The tachograph that checks whether the driver is complying with the rules. The cabotage regulation that determine how long a truck driver is allowed to drive around a country before being required to return home. Much of our social legislation emanates from the European Union.
‘Brexit’ failed to feature in our recent General Election, with most political parties not wishing to ‘open up’ the debate surrounding the UK’s decision to leave the European Union. Do we still dare to explain to’ Gen Z’ that the construction of Europe has ensured more than seventy-five years of peace? Many workers, including trade unionists, actively campaigned for our exit from the European Union. Whether they are still convinced of that choice today is probably another question.
Miners Strike
It was my recent pleasure to represent our Union by attending the anniversary of one of the most violent days of the 1984/85 Miners Strike. Around 400 trade unionists attended the annual Orgreave rally in Sheffield, on Saturday 15 June 2024, to take part in raising awareness of the clash involving police and miners outside the Orgreave coking plant in South Yorkshire during 18 June 1984. At the rally those in attendance heard that the ‘Orgreave Truth and Justice Campaign’ were going to deliver, on 18 June 2024, a new report to the Home Office and major political parties calling for an inquiry into one of the most serious abuses of power by police and government in recent history.
Until next time…. Drive safely.
D rivers' hours: recording of other work
New rules were introduced in August 2020 relating to recording all work, including periods of rest to be entered onto a drivers tachograph. Pleas e see below as quoted on the government website ( https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/drivers-hours-recording-of-other-work/drivers-hours-recording-of-other-work):
With effect from 20 August 2020, the following changes were made to the retained Regulation (EC) 561/2006 (EU drivers’ hours rules) and retained Regulation (EU) 165/2014 (tachograph rules).
Article 6(5) of retained Regulation (EC) 561/2006) requires manual records to be kept of all work (including out of scope driving and any other work) and periods of availability, using either the manual inputs on a digital/smart tachograph or by ma king a manual record on a record sheet (from analogue tachographs) or on printout paper ( from digital tachographs).
Article 34(5)(b)(iv) of retained Regulation (EU) 165/2014 requi res periods of annual leave and sick leave, as well as breaks and rest to be recorded on the ta chograph.
Along with other parts of the regulations in place before August 2020, the changes meant that all drivers (including occasional drivers) must keep a full set of records of their activities for the current day and the previous 28 days . The records must cover their:
• driving
• other work
• periods of availability
• breaks
• rest
• annual leave and sick leave
The detailed guidance on the drivers’ hours and tachograph rules for drivers of goods vehicles and passenger vehicles was updated on 20 August 2020 to cover the above and other changes to the rules.
Congratulation Calvin Barnes NEC Region One
Members of the United Road Transport Union would no doubt join with me in offering 'Congratulations' to Calvin Barnes, on behalf of all Union members on his successful election as a member of the Union's National Executive Committee. Calvin will take up his role from 28th September 2024, representing Region One, and will serve a full five year term of office.
Calvin has been a professional driver for over 15 years and is currently the Shop Steward within his Branch.
RAC Welcomes headlight glare study
From: Media/RAC.co.uk
Published: 2nd April 2024
The RAC has today welcomed a commitment from the Government to commission an independent study into the issue of headlight glare, after rese arch showed an overwhelming majority of drivers affected – as many as eight in ten – believe the problem is getting worse.
Responding to a petition set up by a member of the public follo wing campaigning on the issue by the RAC, the College of Optometrists, Baroness Hayter and others, the Government said: “Recognising the need for further evidence [re garding headlight glare], we intend to commission independent research shortly.”
RAC road safety spokesperson Rod Dennis said:
“Brighter headlights, while giving drivers a better view of the road ahead, are clearly causing other road users significant problems. As many as nine-in-10 drivers tell us they believe at least some car headlights are too bright, while 14% of drivers aged 65+ say they have stopped driving altogether as a result of being dazzled."
“We look forward to working with the Department of Transport to help ensure the study is as robust as possible and drivers’ voices are heard.”
Driver CPC and tachograph information now available to view on DVLA’s Driver and vehicles account
From: Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency
Published: 16 October 2023
Professional drivers can now view their Driver Certificate of Professional Competence and tachograph information on the 'Driver and vehicles account'.
Following the successful launch of the Driver and vehicles account, DVLA has today (Monday 16 October 2023) announced that commercial drivers will now be able to view their Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) and tachograph information using the service.
The 'Driver and vehicles account' was initially launched into public beta in August and enables motorists to easily access their driver and vehicle information in one place.
The ability to view tachograph and CPC information is the first of several additions planned for the account and DVLA are asking motorists to test it and provide feedback to help develop the service. In this first iteration of the Driver and vehicles account, drivers will need a UK passport to sign up to the service.
Julie Lennard, DVLA Chief Executive, said:
"We are delighted to be able to provide CPC and tachograph information for professional drivers on the Driver and vehicles account. Since we launched the account into public beta in August we have worked to add more services and we continue to do so, and we are encouraging drivers to test out the service and provide us with any feedback they have".
Motorists with a UK passport to verify their identity online can set up an account today at www.gov.uk/driver-vehicles-account
The Logistics Report 202
The Logistics Report is Logistics UK’s annual review of the trends affecting the logistics industry in the UK. It provides an up-to-date assessment of the issues those moving goods are facing, across all modes of transport and parts of UK logistics. Logistics underpins the whole economy and is an enabler of trade and growth. The data in this report reinforces our calls for partnership with policy makers to unlock the full potential of the sector
You can view or download the report at: https://logistics.org. uk/research-hub/reports/logistics-report
nion Benefit Guidelines U
Here is a guide to two of the benefits the Union offers its members. Full details and links can be found within the Member's area of the website.
Personal Injury
The Union may provide Personal Injury Legal Assistance to Members and their Families. To take advantage of this benefit you will need:
• A valid fully paid up to date membership
• Be paying either the Driver or non-Driver full time rates
To use this service members need to visit the Members Area of the website and choose the 'Personal Injury' page. On this page they will find the telephone number for our dedicated Personal Injury Solicitors.
To make a claim the member or family member:
• Must be a member of the Union at the time of the Accident and remain a member of the Union throughout the case.
• Whilst claims can only be made within 3 years of an accident, in order to ensure that a case can be supported, a claim through our Union should be made within 2 years of the accident where possible.
You will receive 100% of your compensation. There will be no deductions for legal fees. Please note that the Solicitor’s conclusion in all cases is final.
Personal Injury claims can be made if you have an accident at or away from work, or on holiday, It should be noted that our Union's Personal Injury Solicitors are unable to assist Family members with work related injuries.
Employment Law Cases
The Union may provide an Employment Law Solicitor to Members whom have paid 'up to date' membership and by quoting their membership number.
You will need to speak in the first instance to your Regional Officer. They are likely to request paperwork. Therefore, please remember to keep all paperwork associated with your complaint.
Your Regional Officer will assess your case. If it merits a referral to the Union's Solicitors, your case will likely be passed to a solicitor whom will determine whether your case will be supported. If appropriate the solicitor will be instructed to provide Legal support.
Holiday Accident Claims
Martyn Gwyther, National Head of Overseas Accident Claims at Thompsons Solicitors, explains what to do if you suffer a holiday accident.
Experiencing an injury is always traumatic, but it can be even more distressing if it happens during a holiday meant for relaxation and enjoyment. Our team understands that injured parties often have concerns about language barriers, accessing medical treatment, the quality of care, other guests at the resort, financial issues, and insurance coverage.
Making a personal injury claim might be the last thing on your mind. However, this guide may help you, your family members, or others traveling with you:
• Secure medical treatment immediately, or as soon as possible after the accident. If it happened in Europe, a UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) may help fund initial treatment. Notify your travel insurers about the accident and your need for medical care if you have travel insurance.
• Report your accident to hotel staff and your travel representative, if applicable.
• Log the accident in any relevant accident book and take photographs or video footage of the area. If a defect caused the accident, measure it if possible or use objects in the photos to show scale.
• Keep receipts for any expenses related to your injury, such as travel costs, prescription charges, and medical bills.
• Report criminal acts to the police and document the circumstances and injuries.
• Gather witness information, including names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses.
• Check for CCTV footage from local shops, garages, or other surveillance cameras and request it be preserved.
• Note the time and date of the accident.
• Seek legal assistance as soon as possible.
Types of Holiday Accident Claims we handle at Thompsons Solicitors include the following::
• Claims against tour operators like TUI, Jet2, First Choice, Kuoni, Hayes Travel, Love
Holidays, etc.
• Claims related to services bought directly from hotels or other service suppliers marketing to the UK.
• Accidents during excursions booked through tour operators, hotels, or service providers.
• Road traffic collisions abroad.
If you have been affected by a holiday-related accident, contact Thompsons Solicitors on 0808 1968 643 for free, no-obligation advice and to discuss your case.
URTU members using the personal injury legal service provided by Thompsons Solicitors keep 100% of their compensation, something you won’t get from non-union lawyers.
Proposed Rule / Policy Changes 2024
In the March 2024 edition of 'Wheels', your Union gave its members the opportunity to alter, rescind or make new rules and to determine policy. Now that the proposed changes have been received by Head Office, all members now have the opportunity to amend any o f these proposed changes in accordance with a timetable determined by our 'National Executi ve Committee' ('NEC') Rule 13(2).
The proposed changes are highlighted below. If you wish to amend any of these proposed changes, please print details of your amendments on the form opposite (page 12) and return to: United Road Transport Union, Almond House, Oak Green, Stanley Green Business Park, Cheadle Hulme, SK8 6QL, to arrive no later than 12 August 2024.
Proposed Rule Changes
Rule 14(15) NEW RULE
In addition to any express powers in these Rules, the National Executive Committee shall have power on behalf of the Union generally to carry on the business of the Union, as it may deem necessary, and do such things and authorise such acts, including the payment of moneys, on behalf of the Union, as it, in the general interests of the Union, may deem expedient, and to delegate to any person or persons the power to represent and to act on behalf of the Union. Between National Executive Committee meetings the National Executive Committee powers are delegated to the General Secretary save the following:
(i) Appeals
(ii) Delegation of powers from the National Executive Committee to any Committee (iii) National Executive Committee Procedures
Rule 14(16) NEW RULE
The National Executive Committee shall be entitled to delegate the execution of documents, deeds, contracts and other documents whose purposes are in the interests of the Union and its members to a minimum of two members of the National Executive Committee, of whom one shall be the General Secretary (or if there is not currently an elected General Secretary, the President), provided that at the next convened meeting of the National Executive Committee, copies of any deeds or documents thereby executed shall be prov ided to those attending.
Rule 16 (1)1)
-
Trustees - Remove the word 'Seven'
1. Within the two following groupings of the Union's Regions: 1) one, three, Seven 2) nine, eleven
Union Rule Changes - Proposed Amendments
Please print below details of your proposed amendments to the p roposed rule changes for consideration and return to:
United Road Transport Union, Almond House, Oak Green, Stanley Green Business Park, Cheadle Hulme, SK8 6QL
Proposed Amendments to arrive at the above address no later than first post on 12 August 2024:
Three members celebrate 40 years membership of our Union
Three of our members across two Allied Bakeries sites have recently celebrated 40 years of membership within our Union. To help celebrate this a small party was organised to present each of the members with an engraved Union tankard.
Below is a question and answer session taken with two of the me mbers, Nigel Whitehouse, and Graham Jones from Allied Bakeries in Stoke. Nigel Whitehouse is now enjoying Honorary Membership as he has recently retired.
Q: Why did you join the Union?
Nigel - I came from a family of Miners & realised how important it is to be part of a Union. Unions help with the legal side of things when you may not have the full understanding. Unions can explain everything in detail and give full advice an d protection not only for me but for the family.
Graham - I joined the Union at the age of either 18 or 19 for t he Protection of a Union. It is great to also have a Shop Steward and a Branch Secretary on-sit e to go to when you need to.
Q: What has the Union done for you?
Nigel - The Union has helped me with 2 Accident claims, sickness benefit, and representation and helped my family through different times in l ife.
Graham - The Union has always been there to support me with any questions or medical needs.
Q: Why would you recommend a Union?
Nigel - For the unexpected things in life the Union is there fo r you when you need help and support and to get the true facts.
Graham - To provide protection in the workplace. The Union has all the advice needed, to get support with strikes and being on the picket line.
Q: What piece of advice would you give to someone considering joining a Union?
Nigel - My advice would be for all Drivers to join the Union. They have helped me with 2 Accidents including a broken knee cap and sickness Benefits, a TUPE and all the advice needed with that, and a strike.
Graham - Definitely Join a Union! I tell everyone to join.
Q: What changes have you seen over the last 40 years in the ind ustry?
Nigel - I have seen massive changes in Health & Safety over the years there have been lots of improvements in everything. Originally we got charged for losses of products on our vehicles (which could have been a miscount) this came out o f our pockets! Not any more!! Changes in the operating machinery which are much safer now.
Graham - There are lots of improvements from back in the day to technology and standards.
STUC Motion 81 'CCTV Recording of Professional Cameras'
Peter McKevitt, Regional Officer for Region One, attending the STUC Congress 2024 in Dundee as a delegate, moved our Union's motion to prevent the use of 'in cab' cameras in vehicles. This motion was supported by the CWU Union. You can view this address on the following link, 3 minutes into the link https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=1yWgsKRoSOc
We will report in the future on any updates to this motion.
R HA warning on cargo theft as truckstop funding announced
From: Transport Operator
Published: 28 March 2023
Efforts to improve truckstop provision in England took a further step forward last month with the announcement of a £16.5 million joint government and industry investment but the funding comes amidst a continued shortage of secure overnight parking spaces for trucks and growing concern in the industry over cargo theft.
The second round of funding for improved truckstop facilities will see government money of £6 million being used to top up £10.5 million from the operators of truckstops and service areas to improve driver facilities at 38 sites.
The Department for Transport (DfT) claims the move will create around 430 new truck parking spaces, plus new showers and restaurants, and security fencing and lighting improvements. The funding will also support the installation of electric truck charging facilities and solar panels.
The investment is part of a wider HGV parking and driver welfare grant scheme, which also included a £15 million spend allocated in September 2023. The scheme is informed by the national lorry parking survey, which provides evidence as regards required improvements and in which areas more roadside infrastructure is needed.
Declan Pang, director of policy and public affairs at the Road Haulage Association (RHA), said: “We are delighted to see the government’s match funded grant scheme being awarded to projects which will make a tangible difference to the experiences of lorry drivers and provide much needed additional parking capacity to address the well known shortage of spaces. We are pleased to
see facilities operators contribute funding and commit to improving security and conditions at the sites they operate. We look forward to seeing the positive impact the funding will have across the range of projects.”
But while welcoming the latest round of funding, the RHA said that more work was needed on the simplification of planning rules to ensure that new facilities could be constructed more quickly; and the association also warned last month that the industry was still suffering from an estimated shortage of 11,000 parking spaces, leaving many drivers with no option but to park up on laybys and industrial estates where they are more vulnerable to attack.
Rhys Hacking, managing director of Direct Connect, an RHA member based in Bicester, Oxfordshire, told the newspaper that the company had experienced 80 attempted thefts over the past five years, with most occurring in what are considered secure parking areas, where CCTV and number-plate recognition technology was in operation. He said truckstops needed security guards on site as a deterrent to crime gangs.
Ashton Cull, RHA Policy Manager, cited figures from the National Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service (NaVCIS), which reported more than 5,000 incidents of freight crime in 2022, with goods lost valued at almost £70 million – though taking into account VAT and market price, the actual loss would be far higher, he said.
“We believe it’s likely to get worse with millions struggling to make ends meet. The British Standards Institution says that 24 per cent of all thefts from lorries and warehouses last year were food and drink — up from 13 per cent of the total the previous year.”
“Many would-be truckers might think twice
about coming into our industry when they see disturbing images of slashed curtains, and worse still reports of assaults. And what about for those already doing the job? The thought of parking up in isolated spots in the middle of nowhere can only exacerbate drivers’ feelings of anxiety, loneliness, and isolation.
“Providing more safe and secure truckstops, through reformed planning rules and a focus on the highest security standards across the board will help this situation, as will a review of sentencing guidelines so the impact of freight crime is properly considered – a deterrent for criminals and taking away their opportunities to act.”
In February, the RHA announced it would be leading a new government taskforce on roadside facilities, claiming that 62 per cent of HGV drivers were dissatisfied with both the quality and quantity of parking facilities available in the UK.
“For decades there’s been a severe shortage of safe, secure parking and welfare facilities available to truckers,” said the association.
“The taskforce will be a vital part of how we collaborate on bringing forward new lorry and coach parking to the areas most in
need of additional parking capacity –working with industry and local government to attract investment and get planning approved swiftly.”
Announcing the latest round of truckstop funding, the roads minister, Guy Opperman, said: “Our lorry drivers are the backbone of a successful economy, ensuring food, goods and crucial medical supplies can get where they need to be, all over the country. “That’s why it’s only right we leave no stone unturned when it comes to supporting our lorry drivers as part of our plan to grow the economy, and today’s £16.5 million in joint government and industry funding will provide them with the safe, spacious and modern facilities they deserve.”
Ron Perry, whose A19 sites in County Durham were among the beneficiaries of the funding, said: “The DfT welfare grant scheme goes a long way towards realising our ambitious project of delivering modern, secure and appealing facilities for lorry drivers to park overnight.
“Without the grant from the department, this project simply would not be viable for us. We very much look forward to delivering the improvements so that we can provide lorry drivers the fantastic facilities they deserve.” A full list of sites benefiting from the scheme can be found at the gov.uk website
nion Sickness Benefit. U
The Union offers a Sickness Benefit to members who are on the 'A+ BF' and 'A' scales. Below is a brief overview of the benefit and how to claim.
• A member has to be fully paid up for a minimum of 26 weeks to be able to claim the benefit.
• The Union requires copies of sick notes for the entirety of the sickness period.
• A member can only make and receive sickness benefit once within a 12 month period. Once a sickness period has ended, the member has to pay Union contri butions for 49 weeks before a new sickness claim can be submitted.
• There is an initial three week 'waiting period' at the start of a sick claim. Your Union does require sick notes to cover this period.
• The Sickness Benefit entitles the claimant to £15 per week, for a maximum of 12 weeks.
• Sick notes also cover a member's contributions. After the full £180 Sickness Benefit has been paid out, if a member is still off sick they need to contin ue to send in copies of their sick notes. This is to ensure that they do not pay contributions whilst absent from work through sickness.
• A refund of contributions can not be backdated. Refunds of contributions start from when the first sick note is received into the Union's Head Office, but will be reimbursed from receipt of the second sick note.
• To receive a refund of contributions a member has to be paid 'up to' date.
• Sick notes can be sent through the membership area of the Union's Website or by e-mailing the Union's Head Office.
• Members are responsible for sending or ensuring that their own sick lines are forwarded to our Union's Head Office.
B uilding Maths Confidence
Carl Jones is a driver at Warburtons Port Talbot. He is currently in the middle of studying towards his GCSE Maths qualification.
He found out about the 'Build Your Maths Confidence' campaign during a learning event at work. He then joined the WhatsApp group where information on learning opportunities is regularly distributed by the Union Learning Rep.
Carl said:
“I took part in a basic maths activity and then an online course available on the URTU E-Learning Academy portal. I found it enjoyable and it got me thinking about other courses I could do. I then spoke to the union representative and this conversation led me to enrol on a Maths course.
I never got my exam results thirty-three years ago. I was never interested in school and the life skills I gained helped me solve problems logically, but as I got older I started to think about getting a qualification and certificate. I am enjoying the course and look forward to my next lesson.
I have received a lot of support from my wife with planning my learning and taking one step at a time. “
There are many opportunities for you to
improve your Maths skills in a stress-free way. You may want to consider doing a short online course first before deciding if you would like to take your learning further.
If you would like to consider studying a bit of Maths online, please click HERE to register and we will contact you with more information.
Alternatively, please contact us to discuss your needs and we will attempt to find the right course for you.
H ow Learning can keep you Healthy
In today's fast-paced world, the pursuit of well-being has never been more important. One effective way to achieve this is through continuous learning and completing educational courses. Learning can have profound, positive effects on your overall well-being. From mental stimulation to emotional upliftment and enriched social interactions, learning offers a multifaceted approach to improving your quality of life.
The human brain thrives on challenges and new information. When you learn something new, your brain forms new neural connections, enhancing cognitive functions such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity. The mental workout involved in learning can be incredibly beneficial for brain health.
One of the most significant benefits of mental stimulation through learning is the improvement of memory. Engaging with new material, understanding it, and recalling it later strengthens neural pathways associated with memory.
Completing a course, whether it is a short online module or a comprehensive degree program, brings a profound sense of accomplishment. The journey of learning often involves overcoming obstacles, managing time effectively, and persevering through difficult topics. The culmination of these efforts marked by the completion of a course provides a tangible sense of achievement.
The pursuit of knowledge and the completion of courses provide a holistic approach to improving well-being. They nurture the mind, boost emotional health, and foster meaningful social connections. In an ever-evolving world, the commitment to learning not only equips individuals with new skills and knowledge but also fortifies them with the mental and emotional resilience needed to thrive. By embracing lifelong learning, one can unlock a richer, more fulfilling life, marked by continuous growth and
well-rounded well-being.
URTU Learning Project aims to create healthy workplaces by identifying and offering learning opportunities to support those with long-term health conditions and to prevent people from falling out of work due to ill physical or mental health.
One of the examples of workplaces in Wales that have benefitted from lifelong learning opportunities is DHL Next in Ebbw Vale where learners have completed various informal learning in the subjects of prostate awareness, mental health, healthy eating, or beating stress with hydration.
Adrian Jacob is one of the employees who have completed learning through the project. This is what Adrian has said about his learning experience:
“There are many learning opportunities available through the URTU WULF project – some courses can take place at work (e.g. computer training), but there are also others that can help both with your work and home life, such as autism awareness. You get the chance to read up about the subject and help you understand it better. Some other courses help you learn how to eat and look after yourself better.
The good thing about this is that we get offered various learning opportunities during regular visits and events, and we can also educate ourselves on the different information that is regularly distributed at work. Completing learning helps you understand why it is important to look at what you’re eating and generally look after yourself, especially as you get older in life”.
To view the latest brochure on short courses to keep you healthy, please click HERE.
Dear Editor
Earlier today, accompanied by Joanna Richards, I had a meeting with my employer where she ably represented me: I thank you for her invaluable a ssistance. As part of premeeting discussions I mentioned the Men's Shed as a great source of social life and practical activities, aimed primarily at retired men. Joanna was impressed by the scheme and suggested that I communicate with you as she thought it may be a useful article in Wheels.
I belong to Wayland Men's Shed but similar venues are distributed throughout the country.
I quote from our constitution which is similar to the others:
"
1. To reduce social isolation in men.
2. To promote men’s good health and wellbeing for the benefit of the local community. In particular for persons over the age of 18 or who are retired, unemployed, recovering from ill health, social issues or who ma y simply wish to make use of the facilities offered in a safe and friendly enviro nment.
3. To provide a physical space for persons to take part in creative and/or recreational activities that benefit themselves and the communit y and includes the opportunity to share skills or learn new ones, to practice inte rests or develop new ones, to socialise and to engage in the wider society by helpin g with community-based projects undertaken by the WMS."
Further information can be found on the website at waylandmensshed.co.uk I hope that you and other members find this useful.
Thanks URTU.
Member in Region 11
Dear United Road Transport Union
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Joanna Richards for all the hard work and support she gave me during a difficult time regarding my health .
Joanna was always there when I needed help with my employment i ssues and kept my employer on the right tracks.
If Joanna had not been there I had no doubt they would have not followed procedure. It is fair to say that a membership to this union is truly bene ficial.
Thankyou once again Joanna
Member in Region 11
Basic Shop Steward
The course has been designed to enable our Shop Stewards to develop and improve their skills and knowledge. The course identifies ways in which improvements can be implemented to make the Union more effective at a local level.
Course aims:
• Ensure you understand your role within the Union and your responsibilities toward the members.
• Learn essential skills to assist you in representation at disciplinary and grievance meetings.
• Develop your communication skills.
• Give you a clearer understanding of relevant legislation.
• Consolidate your negotiating skills.
• Give you an understanding of the importance of recruitment and retention.
• Develop your recruitment skills.
• Increase your confidence as a Shop Steward.
Advanced Shop Steward
The course has been designed for our Shop Stewards who have previously attended the Basic Shop Steward course.
Course aims:
• Develop your knowledge of Disciplinary and Grievance procedures.
• Develop your knowledge of Collective Consultation and TUPE.
• Improve your negotiating skills.
• Develop your understanding of the UK legal system.
• Gain an understanding of current Employment Law.
• Develop your understanding of the Working Time Regulations.
Basic Health & Safety
The course has been designed to equip our Health & Safety Representatives with the knowledge of the role and the trade union approach to Health and Safety.
Course aims:
• Ensure you can handle Health & Safety issues and develop an appropriate response to both members and management.
• Demonstrate your understanding of the updated SRSc Regulations.
• Ensure you know how to conduct effective workplace inspections, including all accidents and near misses.
• Develop your skills to identify, obtain, order, and summarise relevant Health & Safety information.
Advanced Health & Safety
The course has been designed for our Health & Safety Representatives who have previously attended the Basic Health & Safety course.
Course aims:
• Ensure you enhance your Health & Safety skills.
• Demonstrate your knowledge to enable you to function in a professional and confident manner within the confines of Health & Safety legislation.
• Develop your understanding of current European Health & Safety legislation.
• Develop your understanding of the constituent parts of the major pieces of this legislation.
• Develop your understanding of the Union’s approach to Health & Safety legislation.
courses
Course Dates
Union Representatives play a vital role within the Union, helpi ng members within their branches and recruiting. To support them your Union hosts a number of courses throughout the year. These courses are designed to give the representative the skills they need to undertake their role and are specifically tailored to the Logistics sector.
Below is a list of upcoming course dates. These are held at the Quorn Grange Hotel and are a three day residential course.
To book your place on one of these courses, please contact your Union's Head Office on 0161 486 2100 or freephone 0800 526 639. You can also e-mail them at admin@urtu.com
We are here to support you.
We are here to help, advise and support with any issues, problems or concerns you may have with your employment.
Your membership.
Your employer does not need to know if you are in a union. If you move jobs you can take your membership with you.
We are not politically affiliated.
United Road Transport Union is not affiliated to any political party.
Pay Terms and Conditions.
If we don’t negotiate on your behalf for better working conditions, who will?
Value for Money.
.Legal Support .Hardship grants .Personal Injury .Peace of Mind & More
Benefits.
We have a wide range of benefits available to you, many of which can extend to your family and friends.
