UNISON is now hiring and looking for fantastic local organisers to support our branches across Wales.
We spoke to former events organiser Ffion Thomas (pictured above) who took on the role in 2022 and told us trade unions are needed now more than ever.
Ffion said her passion for, and knowledge of the trade union movement attracted her to become a local organiser as she knew this, combined with her skillset, would lend itself well to recruitment events within branches.
Ffion added: “I knew working for UNISON would allow me to actively engage with the public to communicate the benefits of membership and highlight the important work undertaken by the union.
“Working as a local organiser over the last eight months has provided me with many opportunities to engage with members on a local level, but also on a national scale.
“The NHS pay ballot was the first campaign I was involved in which was a real eye opener to the work that UNISON does.
“My days were filled with going out to work sites to meet with members, as well as taking part in phoning our members to encourage them to use their vote and return their ballot papers.
“Alongside campaigns, I also work closely with a number of branches, looking to recruit new members and activists by holding themed events such as Easter stalls and drop-in surgeries. This has been a really dynamic part of my role and has given me an insight into UNISON’s activities at a grassroots level, as well as helping me to engage with members and represent UNISON at their workplace.
“My advice to anyone wanting to apply to be a local organiser would be to think about how your transferrable skills could be used in the role. Don’t be put off by thinking you lack experience in an organising role – enthusiasm, great communication and problem-solving skills are just some of the attributes that make up a great UNISON Cymru/Wales local organiser.”
UNISON is now hiring for local organisers in Wales.
Click here to find out more.