Teesside’s future trade union representatives now have access to local training in defending workers’ rights, thanks to a partnership between the TUC and Middlesbrough College.
Workplace union representatives – employees who represent and give advice to colleagues – will now get expert training at Middlesbrough College following funding secured from Tees Valley Combined Authority.
Previously the only provider of trade union education in the North East of England was Newcastle College.
Middlesbrough College is currently looking to recruit a tutor during the autumn term, with courses taking place online due to Covid-19 restrictions and in-person courses tentatively planned to take place in January depending on government advice.
A new Union Reps Stage 1 and a Health and Safety Stage 1 is expected to begin enrolment in January 2021.
Beth Farhat, Regional Secretary of Northern TUC said:
“It’s great to hear that union learning will be returning to Teesside, I would like to thank Middlesbrough College and the TUC Education Team who have worked had over the last year to make sure vital training of union reps continues”
“The current pandemic has reinforced the need for more union reps who can make sure workplaces put the health and safety of their workers front and centre at all times.”
Zoe Lewis, Principal & Chief Executive of Middlesbrough College said:
“Union reps do a really important job in workplaces across Teesside – including here in the College – and we’re delighted that our expert training staff will once again be able to pass their skills and knowledge on to future cohorts.
“Localised training and support will help reps deliver for their colleagues.”
Tony Saunders, TUC Education Officer said:
“We are pleased to see the return of TUC Education to the Teesside area and look forward to working with Middlesbrough College to develop a thriving centre to support all Union Reps, Health and Safety Reps and Union Learning Reps across the area.”
Find out more about the courses on offer at Middlesbrough College.
