Branch is looking for Union Learn reps

The OU relies absolutely on its staff, and those staff need access to first class training and professional development in order to serve the University to the best of their abilities whilst forging a fulfilling and successful career.  To make sure that this happens, particularly in the context of the Students First change programme, UCU is introducing a number of new ‘Learning Rep’ roles and looking for volunteers from within the membership to fill them.
 
The Role
The main responsibilities of the role will be:

• Identifying opportunities to improve training opportunities at the OU through developing new and existing University level policies, e.g. CDSA, redeployment, redundancy, bullying & harassment.
• Advising branch officers when negotiating changes to policies and UCU’s demands during change / restructuring programmes.
• Investigating training provision in specific units and areas of the University, and making recommendations accordingly.
• Advising individual OU UCU members on their individual training and education rights and opportunities, working alongside caseworkers as necessary.

What we offer
The role does not bring extra money but you are entitled to time off to carry out the duties.  There are also other benefits:

• The chance to develop skills in research & analysis, policy development, negotiation, and advice, guidance & advocacy.
• The opportunity to help colleagues when they most need it, whilst also helping the University to a successful future.
• Ongoing training and support as required.

What we are looking for
The branch has a very diverse membership and we do not expect volunteers to have an in-depth understanding of all areas.  We are aiming to establish a team of Reps with complementary backgrounds and experience, who can work together to cover all aspects of the role.
 
Each individual should ideally have:

• An appreciation of the benefits of training and professional development.
• Experience or knowledge of at least one of the main areas of the role.
• A keenness to help colleagues, often at a difficult time in their careers.
• Willingness to attend an initial 1 day course, and to undertake other training as required.
• Approximately 5 days per annum to give to the role.

If you would like to help but are unable to commit the time required or do not feel you have enough knowledge or experience, please do still get in touch.  You may be able to help the branch by working alongside the Learning Reps on particular projects or cases, and if you wish to take on the Learning Rep role in the future this would be invaluable experience.

Please contact ucu@open.ac.uk for more information.
Union Learn website: https://www.unionlearn.org.uk