Network Spotlight on Carolyn Robinson

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. In this issue the North Eastern’s Carolyn ‘Caz’ Robinson answers our questions.

Why did you become an activist?
My job was under threat for the second time. My rep accompanied me at the meeting but did not need to help as I defended myself. They then asked if I had any objections to becoming a rep myself – et voilà!

What do you enjoy most as a rep?
Making a difference in my workplace and helping people to smile.

What’s been your best moment so far?
Helping a member prove his innocence and get reinstated with a clear record.

Is there a down side to being a rep?
No peaceful lunch times!

Is recruiting easy in your workplace?
Yes it is. We have a great relationship with the current management.

Have you been on any union training courses?
All shop steward and health and safety courses, SYA, and federation weekends including a self assertiveness course. All very informative and worth attending.

What did you think of ADM this year?
It was great as my branch had submitted a proposition.

What’s surprised you about being in Usdaw?
How easy it is to contact officials at local and national level.

What advice would you give to a member thinking about becoming a rep?
Just do it, it is well worth the effort. There is always plenty of support from other reps and officials.

How would you improve Usdaw?
By creating a general helpline that would be manned by reps.

Have you changed as a person since you became active?
Very much. My friends and family would say I didn’t need any more confidence, but I did. It’s easy to look confident but feeling it is another matter altogether.

Looking back on your life is there anything you would change?
No, ‘what ifs’ are a waste of energy. Life is what you make it and I am happy with me and mine.

What’s next for Caz Robinson?
I may stand for divisional councillor at the next elections.

Fact File

Name
Caz Robinson

Employer
Tesco, Barnsley

Job
Cash office clerk

Age
44

Lives
Ardsley, South Yorkshire

Union positions
Union rep, branch sec and health and safety rep

Branch
South Yorkshire Tesco F187

Activist
For six years, I joined in 1994

Trivia

Favourite . . .

TV show
Heroes

Music
Take That

Book
All of the Harry Potters

Last film I saw was. . .
American Gangster

In my spare time. . .
I walk, cycle and read

Best moment of my life so far . . .
Having my daughters, but my husband would want me to say marrying him!

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