Progress report

Two young reps from Tesco made such an impact in their workplaces they both won their divisional nominations for the most promising new activist at the 2007 National Organising Awards.

Business support executive Estelle Crump, 23, from the Cardiff call centre and Aron Vernon, 22, an assistant at the Faversham store in Kent have made rapid and impressive progress.

“Getting active with the union has been a life changing experience for me,” said Aron.

“I’ve been involved with every union activity possible both divisionally and nationally during the last 12 months. It’s been a fantastic experience and superb for my personal development and self-confidence. I’m really fired up and would love to pursue a career with the union.

“We have a great team of reps in-store who have encouraged and supported me all the way. Carol Jackson, in particular, took me under her wing very early on and showed me the ropes. She’s a very experienced rep and arranged for me to shadow her during stand-down recruitment sessions. I learned a lot and I’m now extremely confident and capable of going out to recruit by myself.

“I’d like to see more young people getting involved with the union, the opportunities are endless. I went to ADM as a first time visitor last year and attended the national youth weekend up in Warrington. Both events were absolutely fantastic, a great learning curve. I met a lot of Usdaw reps and members from all over the country.

“What’s next? Well I’ve applied for the union’s Organising Academy so watch this space.”

Meanwhile estelle has graduated to the ranks of Usdaw having completed a law degree at the University of Glamorgan. “I haven’t looked back since I was elected as a rep just over a year ago,” she said.

“I had no hesitation in joining at my induction when I started working here 14 months ago. At University we covered employment law and the role of trade unions so there was no doubt in my mind about joining. I’ve had tremendous support and encouragement from everyone at the Cardiff office and the training from Usdaw has been first-class.

“I went to my first ADM in Blackpool last year as a visitor – I’d definitely recommend it – what a fantastic experience.

“We now have eight reps and we work well as a team. Membership stands at around 75 per cent and staff and management are very positive about the role the union plays in our workplace.

“I’ve just been elected onto my divisional youth committee which will give me the opportunity to get more involved. I’ve also had a chat with my area organiser about doing some stand-down.

“I’m really enjoying being a rep. It’s very rewarding. There’s a lot to learn and you gain a lot of respect from your colleagues.”

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