Union Learning Representatives Online

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Union Learning Representatives (ULRs) are helping to give people the skills and knowledge to improve their lives at work and beyond. They are making a real difference in workplaces up and down the country, raising the profile of training and development by providing advice, encouragement and information to members about a range of learning opportunities. There are currently over 20,000 ULRs in the UK. They have been key in building participation in lifelong learning. As well as helping individual members, ULRs have had a positive affect upon workplaces and organisations themselves.

• Who is the course for?
• When does the course start?
• How long is the course?
• What will the course help me to do?
• Can I get time off to learn?
• Can I get time off for online courses?
• How much is the course?
• Further Information
• How do I apply?

Who is the course for?

This is the first stage ULR* training course. It introduces the role of the ULR, the importance of learning and skills at work and provides the tools and knowledge that will enable ULRs to carry out their role successfully.

When does the course start?

January 2009 and each term thereafter.

How long is the course?

The ULR online is a 60 hour course delivered over 16 weeks.

What will the course help me to do?

The course will help you:

• understand the role and statutory rights of the ULR
• promote the value of training and learning to union members
• give support and encouragement to members who want to broaden their skills
• arrange training and learning opportunities
• consult with the employer about training and learning
• promote union policies and activities on training and learning

Can I get time off to learn?

Union representatives who wish to attend TUC courses in working time should first ask their employer for time off with pay. The Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 and the Safety Representatives and Safety Committee Regulations 1977 give accredited union and safety representatives a legal right to reasonable time off with pay to attend courses approved by the TUC or their union. Guidance towards establishing what constitutes reasonable time off can be found in the ACAS Code of Practice (http://www.acas.org.uk/media/pdf/l/q/CP03_1.pdf).
Representatives who find difficulty in obtaining paid time off to attend TUC courses should seek assistance from their senior union representative or full time union officer.

Can I get time off for online courses?

Online learning* should not be seen as an alternative to paid release from work. The law still applies, whether learning takes place away from work or in work, at a workstation or in a company learning centre.

How much is the course?

This course is free for all recognised union reps from TUC member unions.

Further Information

If you require any further information about this course, please contact:
Craig Hawkins
Online Learning Officer
unionlearn*
Congress House
Great Russell Street
London
WC1B 3LS
t: 020 7079 6947
f: 020 7079 6921
e: chawkins@tuc.org.uk

How do I apply?

If you are interested in this course, please complete the online form using the link below.

Proceed to online application form

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unionlearn
Congress House
Great Russell Street
London WC1B 3LS

Telephone 020 7079 6920
Fax 020 7079 6921
Email ulweb@tuc.org.uk

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