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74
C
Encourage trade unions to modernise traditional structures and models to ensure that
members that are not based in workplaces can participate fully in union activities
Motion 3
NAPO
Representatives, Training
1
The GFTU plays a critical role in helping small unions train representatives. The formation of
a training co-ordinators network to help shape, develop and test the representative training
programme is welcomed as positive and should be encouraged and supported.
2
This BCGM thinks that there is scope for the GFTU to broaden it's impact by using this
network to identify best practice and sharing best practice in training for union activists
where the focus is on softer skills, vital to successful union organizing, but not traditionally
central to representative training - such as active listening, overcoming deficit thinking
through positive communication, and writing effective campaigning materials.
3
Similarly the GFTU should promote identifying common recruitment and organising
challenges and support active learning around best practice and overcoming these
challenges. For example, managers are critical union gatekeepers across the public sector
but some unions, such as Napo have seen a significant reduction of membership in
managerial roles and could learn from unions who have retained strong managerial
membership levels.
This BCGM calls upon the GFTU to:
A- identify examples of best practice and such opportunities for such sharing
B- use the training co-ordinators network to support this activity
C- identify champions, who can be supported to lead on progressing identified themes
D- use the GFTU'S network to access academics, specialists and experts in other fields to support
developing the highest quality of training and practice in these critical skills.
Motion 4
NAPO
Promoting efficiencies & greater inter-union co-operation
1
The GFTU provides a safe space for union leaders to come together, share challenges, and
celebrate successes. However, all GFTU affiliates will be aiming to stretch resources so they have the
maximum impact for members and this BCGM believes that the GFTU is not fulfilling it's potential as
a broker for finding shared solutions to common resourcing challenges amongst affiliates.
2
By definition affiliates are small so capacity to find solutions to internal operational
challenges is difficult - in terms of time, expertise and cost. For example, Napo would like to have
cutting edge integrated ICT platforms that could make our membership, finance and
communications more efficient and effective with a direct benefit for supporting activists,