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 Home Get Active Successful Organising
Network Spotlight22 February 2008Network meets up with one of Usdaw’s 10,500-strong army of reps and finds out what life is like at the sharp end. In this issue North West division’s Lorna Young answers our questions. Why did you become an activist? The union’s campaigns attracted me and talking to my area organiser Michala Lafferty. What do you enjoy most as a rep? Helping people and trying to make a difference at work. Is there a down side to being a rep? I don’t think so, I enjoy it and try to help members whatever the issue. What’s been your best moment so far? Two things stand out. Going to last year’s wage negotiations which were very successful. And attending the National Organising Awards in Manchester, with fellow rep David Foster, where our branch won the divisional nomination for team recruitment. What are the most important issues for your members at present? An increase in wages and health and safety. Is recruitment easy in your workplace? We are allowed to recruit at inductions, so that helps. What’s surprised you about being in Usdaw? The number of people, who have never talked to you before, who come and ask about their workplace rights. What advice would you give to a member thinking about becoming a rep? Just go for it. If you want to help improve your workplace, like helping people and are enthusiastic about the campaigns, you’ll enjoy it. You’ll meet good reps on training courses so you’re never on your own. Which news item has caught your attention recently? People trafficking from eastern Europe, especially involving children. Have you changed as a person since you became active? Yes. I’m more confident, better organised and feel more able to talk to management. What would you do if you were prime minister for the day? Increase the national minimum wage, improve pensions and make flexible working available for parents with school-age children. Looking back on your life is there anything you would change? Yes, I would certainly travel more. I would’ve gone back to college earlier but we have a learning suite about to open on-site so that should give me some ideas. What’s next for Lorna Young? I’m going to be a health and safety rep, and recruit another 100 members.
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Contact Details Media and Communications Department Ph: 0161 224 2804 Fax: 0161 249 2490 communications@usdaw.org.uk  Printer Friendly Page  Email to a Friend
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