Together in UNISON: the podcast | UNISON East Midlands

What have trade unions ever done for us?

Join former national radio host turned UNISON East Midlands communications guy Chris Birks as we answer that question and many more in this light-hearted journey through the world of trade unions.

Every episode is shorter than 30 minutes, so it’s the perfect length to listen to on your commute or a break. We’ll introduce you to some interesting guests from the world of trade unionism, politics, culture and the arts. Our ‘meet the member’ section is where we can find out more about the people within UNISON and the work they do, and we’ll do some trade union myth busting along the way!

Remember to follow, share, join! Follow the podcast, share it with your friends and family, and join UNISON if you work in the public sector. The more people we reach the greater impact we can have.

Episode 5: We’re on strike!

A different sounding episode this time, as we join Leicester’s healthcare assistants on the picket line as they strike for a better pay deal.

Also, we chat speak to Megan Wilson-Ibbotson, the co-chair of our regional young members forum, and hear why she got involved in the trade union movement. Plus you’ll meet another member doing incredible things in their workplace.

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Episode 4: Stephanie Sirr MBE

On this episode, Stephanie Sirr MBE joins us. Stephanie runs Nottingham Playhouse and has plenty of stories from her time in the industry – especially from her time in Blackpool!

How do we make theatre and jobs in the arts more accessible to working class kids? Stephanie has plenty of ideas.

You’ll also find about UNISON East Midlands Learning Charter initiative and hear from another member making a real difference in the East Midlands.

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Episode 3: UNISON College and Learning

In this episode, Chris Birks speaks to Gavin McCann who helps organise learning courses for members in the East Midlands. You won’t believe just how many courses are open to UNISON members!

Plus, Labour’s East Midlands Mayoral Candidate Claire Ward stops by to explain what the new role is all about and what she plans to deliver if elected in May.

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Episode 2: Year of the LGBT+ Worker

2024 is UNISON’s Year of the LGBT+ Worker, a year long campaign to embed LGBT+ rights in to our organising and campaigning efforts. Chris Birks speaks to Michael Wrighton, chair of the regional LGBT+ network, and hears about the pioneering work UNISON’s regional Black Members are doing regionally too.

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Episode 1: Christina McAnea

It’s the first podcast, and we’ve only gone and landed the boss! UNISON’s general secretary, Christina McAnea, tells us what leading the UK’s biggest trade union is really like. Hear from two award-winning school support staff, and we do some trade union myth busting.

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