Learning Rep Network Frequently Asked Questions

How do I become a Learning Rep?

You need to discuss it first with your Senior Steward or Convener, then enroll on one of the TUC's Front Line Advice and Guidance courses, or enquire about what courses your own union are running for Learning Reps. Details of all courses that we find out about, from both the TUC and affiliate unions, are publicised in the Learning Rep Newsletter.

Can my employer stop me from going on a Learning Rep course?

This is a matter for local negotiation, as at present Learning Reps don't yet have any legal status like Safety Reps, although this is being lobbied for by the TUC at the moment. TUC Learning Services can help by giving a joint union/management presentation on subjects such as Investors in People, lifelong learning, or any other issues around learning such as NVQs, workplace learning centres, individual learning accounts, and advise them on the benefits, and how important the role of the Learning Rep is in all of this.

Who can be a Learning Rep?

Different unions may have different views on this, so again. take advice from your Senior Steward or Convenor, but the TUC are happy to train anyone who has the support of their Branch or Union, be they existing Stewards or Safety Reps or ordinary lay members who want to become more involved.

I've already been trained up as a Learning Rep, what other support is available?

If you haven't done so already, get on the Learning Rep Network, which is designed to provide you with up to date information on new initiatives and changes, as well as courses and events and ideas to develop in your own workplace via the newsletter and this web site, and regular meetings with other local Learning Reps and BfS project workers to discuss any issues you have, as well as an annual meeting for all Learning Reps in the North West, which should include speakers of national prominence, and be another opportunity to talk to other Learning Reps and ask questions in the workshops. Just complete the questionnaire on this site and send it to us and well make sure you are on the database.

Where can I get further advice from on specific issues?

BfS will be happy to give you any further advice or assistance on any issue around learning, or even help with negotiating around learning for your members. All the advice and assistance is completely free to unions and their members, just contact us by phone, fax or email and we will help however we can.

Any other questions?

If so, contact us, and we'll do our best to answer it, and add it to this list.

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