Following a statutory recognition agreement at the ready-meal manufacturer Oscar Mayer, new Union Workplace Representatives (Reps) in Wrexham are enhancing their skills through specialised training. This move highlights the connection between formal recognition and the need for knowledgeable representation in the workplace.

Union Reps from the Oscar Mayer site in Wrexham are participating in Unite’s Workplace Reps Introductory Certificate (WPR1A) course. This training is being held at the Wrexham office, in partnership with Adult Learning Wales, and is led by Trade Union Tutor Darren Thelwell.

Darren said:

“It’s been great to see the reps grow in confidence throughout the course. They asked lots of questions and shared their experiences openly. The reps were fully engaged and supported each other and gained the knowledge and confidence to enable them to step into the role of a work-placed representative.”

The WPR1A course serves as a foundational step for new Unite Workplace Reps, offering a curriculum designed to provide them with the knowledge and confidence required to effectively represent their colleagues.

The training modules cover a comprehensive array of vital skills, including:

• Key skills for organising your workplace and building a strong workplace union.
• Handling discipline and grievance cases
• Introduction to Employment Law and Equality at Work.
• Bargaining skills and problem-solving.
• Understanding and dealing with issues around Dignity and Respect in the workplace and the concept of ‘good work’.

By providing this detailed training, the union aims to ensure that Oscar Mayer’s workplace Union Reps are well-prepared to maintain the new agreement and represent members effectively on a range of issues, from daily work-life balance to more complex legal matters.

This commitment to upskilling the trade union movement is delivered through Adult Learning Wales’ Trade Union Studies in partnership with Unite, ensuring workplace reps across Wales have access to the supportive, practical, and accredited education they need to effectively advocate for their members.

To find out more about the Trade Union Courses available for Union Reps by Adult Learning Wales in partnership with the major trade unions in Wales, click here