Network Spotlight on Stephen Francis

Network meets up with one of Usdaw’s 10,500-strong army of reps and finds out what life is like at the sharp end. Midlands division’s Stephen Francis answers our questions.

Why did you become an activist?
I wanted to make a difference in the workplace for the members and myself.

What do you enjoy most as a rep?
Helping the members.

Is there a down side to being a rep?
Some days they love you, other days they hate you.

Have you been on any training courses?
Yes and I enjoyed them, although they probably could have been longer.

You went to the Annual Delegate Meeting, what did you think?
Fabulous, I made my first speech when I moved our proposition on the air ambulance service – and it was carried.

What are the most important issues for your members at present?
Wages.

Is recruitment easy in your workplace?
Yes and no. Some days it is, other days it isn’t.

What’s surprised you about being in Usdaw?
Nothing surprises me these days.

What advice would you give to a member thinking about becoming a rep?
Be prepared for every eventuality.

Would you change anything about Usdaw?
We have to make sure we continue to provide the reps with the best training available. Without the reps the union will stand still because it’s the reps who recruit the members.

You went to the black members weekend last year, how was it?
Very good, hard work but very entertaining too.

Have you changed as a person since you became active?
Yes, I’m more confident, assertive and better organised.

Which news item has caught your attention recently?
The ongoing Madeleine McCann disappearance.

What would you do if you were prime minister for the day?
Make sure that pensioners have a comfortable retirement. It’s wrong that people work until they’re 65, retire and then die soon after.

Looking back on your life is there anything you would change?
No, nothing.

What’s next for Stephen Francis?
Just to carry on doing what I’m doing.

Fact File

Name:
Stephen Francis

Employer:
Wincanton/Morrisons

Job:
Reach truck driver

Age:
39

Lives:
Northampton

Union positions:
Rep

Branch:
Midlands Wincanton Logistics E161

Activist:
Since June 2005

Favourite . . .

TV show:
The soaps

Last film I saw was:
Jumper

Artist:
Snoop Dog

Previous jobs:
Warehouseman

In my spare time . . .
I watch TV

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