Network Journal 2006 Issue 4 Nov/Dec

North West Division

The union’s biggest division, the North West, has enjoyed a strong year and will go into 2007 confident in its ability to grow even bigger.

That was the upbeat message from divisional officer Mike Aylward as he addressed more than 240 members at the division's half-yearly conference held in Blackpool in November.

"We've had a busy and productive year," said Mike. "We have rearranged our branch structure. Our officials' branch allocation has been revised and our committees have also made a significant contribution to the work of the union.

"Our campaigning work has gone from strength to strength, especially our Marks and Spencer recruitment drive. All of this is down to the dedication and commitment of our reps and officials."

Members were also informed and entertained by Sharon Davies, one of the division's eight organising officers, part of this year's Academy intake, who gave a presentation on behalf of her colleagues.

"Being on the Academy is the biggest roller-coaster ride of your life," she said. "We've all travelled a long hard road over the last six months and it has been absolutely fantastic. We've recruited, organised, and campaigned for Usdaw.

"As a team we've laughed together, cried together and supported each other. We've all made some really good friends along the way."

Deputy divisional officer Pat Frost was full of praise for the eight organising officers. "The Academy has made new people of them," she said. "They have all worked very hard and it's clearly paid off. All eight have really grown and developed as reps over the last six months."

Conference also heard about the union's latest educational initiative Return to Learning. This has seen two successful pilot projects in the North West and Scottish divisions which has allowed retail reps to access the Key Skills in Communication course.

Two North West reps Jane Rogers and Helen Grindley successfully completed the course and were presented with certificates at the conference.

"I've learned so much," said Jane. "It was a magnificent course, great fun and I'd recommend it." Helen agreed. "I've a lot more confidence now. Before the course I wouldn't have spoken up at any meeting, but now I have the presentation skills to make my voice heard. Since doing the course I have signed up as a union learning rep."

"It's great to see our reps progress," said John Hannett.

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