Union Learning Representatives Profiled

By Euroline Observer

Statutory rights for 'union learning representatives' came into force in the UK in 2003. This article reviews the latest evidence on the spread, activities and impact of this new kind of workplace representative.

Where trade unions are recognised by employers, the Employment Act 2002 provides a statutory right to paid time off work for appropriately trained 'union learning representatives' (ULRs) to carry out duties including:

· analysing members' learning or training needs;

· advising members about learning or training matters;

· arranging learning or training;

· promoting the value of learning or training;

· consulting the employer about these issues; and

· undergoing training relevant to their functions.

The new statutory provisions came into force in April 2003, as did a revised Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (Acas) code of practice on time off for trade union duties and activities, which includes guidance on the practical application of ULRs' time-off rights.

TUC survey

According to a survey commissioned by the Trades Union Congress (TUC), published in November 2003, the number of trained ULRs increased from 2,000 in 2000 to 6,500 in 2003. The TUC has set a target of 22,000 ULRs by 2010. With regard to ULRs'demographic profile: there are currently far more men than women (62.5% and 37.5% respectively); over half are aged over 45; only 6% are from minority ethnic groups; and just under 10% have a disability. There has been high growth since 2000 in ULRs in the public sector, where just over half are employed. Almost one-fifth of ULRs work in organisations with fewer than 250 employees.