CONTACT THE BRANCH

If you have a problem at work which you need to discuss, then you should approach your local workplace representative, who will be able to assist you.

Members in workplaces where a representative is not available should contact the Branch after reading the CVO Branch Guide to Representation and Advice. Before you do so, please bear in mind:

‘4 Week Rule’: Please note that if you have a pre-existing issue when joining UNISON, or your issue has arisen within the first 4 weeks of your membership, then you are entitled to brief advice only. We will be unable to provide further representation in regard to this issue at any stage of membership.

Restrictions on representation: Members seeking representation in workplaces where there is no established workplace representative may seek representation from Branch Staff. Such representation and advice will initially be conducted via email or telephone. Due to the high demand for representation, in most instances, Branch Staff will only be able to meet members on the day of any formal hearing. Please see the guide for further information.

Members may also want to review our Frequently Asked Questions prior to contacting the branch for advice.

NEED ADVICE? – FAQ

Branch Contact Details:

Contact form available here.

E – info@unisoncvob.org.uk

T – 0207 729 4001

A – UNISON Community and Voluntary Organisation Branch, Studio 103, 134 – 146 Curtain Road, London. EC2A 3AR

Who are they?

Paul Coles is the Branch Development Organiser.

They are responsible for the branch recruitment and organising strategy. They recruit new members and stewards and support and advise stewards who are dealing with individual cases and with workplace issues. They help the stewards to organise in their workplaces and advise and represent members who do not have a UNISON steward in their workplace. At the moment, a lot of Paul’s time is taken up with case work for members.

The branch is currently recruiting a full-time Branch Case Worker and has assistance from a member of the regional team who is seconded part-time to assist the branch with case work, and the branch has employed a part-time very experienced case worker to provide support with case work.

Anita Fakhri is the Branch Administrator. She deals with membership queries, stewards training, finance issues and day-to-day running of the office .

Most advice is given on the telephone or by email, email being our preferred method of communication, ensuring that we obtain from members an accurate outline of their issues. Our branch organiser and our case workers are working from home or are out of the office representing members at hearings. Branch staff can access further legal advice if needed from our regional office if required.

The branch is supported at regional level by a member of the team from the Region.