Ioana Cerasella Chis
During my previous studies at the University of Birmingham, I always appreciated, supported, and admired the work undertaken by the UNISON branch. As such, seconds after I signed first my substantial contract at UoB, I became a UNISON member. Within a few weeks I attended the first branch meeting, and since then I have had the pleasure of working closely with fantastic members who are all interested in making the campus a better place for everyone. Over the past few years, UNISON members’ collective strength has grown significantly, and we should be proud of our achievements.
At the moment I am undertaking postgraduate research studies and working in the Academic Skills Centre (Library Services).
Being a member of a trade union is a must for every single worker on campus, and I would like to emphasise that this includes students who work through Worklink, agency staff (i.e. Pertemps), staff in the outsourced ‘Edgbaston Hotel’, and everyone who works in the Guild of Students.
I encourage all members to become active in the branch, as our collective power and ability to improve our working conditions rests in the way we work together (within the branch but also beyond), the workplace-based experience and knowledge each of us has, and the commitment to ensuring that no one is treated unfairly on this campus. An injury to one is an injury to all.
If you want to be involved in organising members’ meetings in various workplaces on campus, campaigning, and helping out with anything else, please get in touch. Also, consider joining the committee as a workplace contact, steward, equality/ education/ health and safety rep, or officer. More information can be found on the website.