English schools pause ‘the right thing to do’, says UNISON

Commenting on the announcement today (Tuesday) that primary schools in England will not have to open up to more pupils before the end of the summer term, UNISON head of education Jon Richards said: “This was the right thing to do. As important as it is to open up schools, the challenges of bringing back all […]

NJC committee to put pay offer to members

Consultation will allow branches and members to discuss the employers’ final offer – the best that can be achieved by negotiation

Police and justice committee adds voice to George Floyd protests

UNISON group says the killing in the US – and its aftermath – shows that the fight against racism must be redoubled

Safety must be at the heart of universities’ rebuilding plan

Protecting health has to be the number one priority

NEC told: ‘We will hold government to account on COVID-19’

First remote national executive council hears tributes to UNISON members who have lost their lives during the coronavirus crisis

Blog: The murder of George Floyd is another example of the racism that blights US society – Guest post by Mavreen Ncube

The murder of George Floyd is another example of the racism that blights US society. There are those who would claim that the situation in the UK is different, but that’s not true. That is why we all have to commit ourselves to be actively anti-racist in our attitudes and our behaviours. UNISON Northern has […]

US unrest is a reminder to stand up to racism, says UNISON

Commenting on the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis and the resulting civil unrest across the US, UNISON assistant general secretary Roger McKenzie said: “The death of George Floyd has reminded the world once again of the racism that scars US society. It exists too in the shameful brutality of some police officers, whipped up further by […]

Advice for schools and nursery members with serious concerns about returning to work on 1 June

UNISON has consistently opposed the expansion of pupil numbers in primary schools and nurseries in England on 1 June. We believe that it increases the risks to pupils, staff, parents and the wider community. Many councils and schools have agreed with us and are delaying the expanded return to work. Unfortunately last night the government […]

Support staff losing sleep and suffering anxiety ahead of return to school in England, says UNISON

Anxiety is widespread among school workers about their safety, their families’ and that of pupils ahead of a return to the classroom across England, says UNISON today (Thursday). On the day unions are due to meet with education secretary Gavin Williamson, UNISON has published a catalogue of concerns from support staff who make up more […]

Update for School Support Staff (27 May 2020)

We know this is a really anxious time for school staff in England and many of you will be unsure of where you stand with regards to returning to work on 1 June. Please be assured that we are doing everything we can to continue to produce robust advice for members. We are having final […]