The high quality of Union Learning Reps across the Midlands was demonstrated when the regional TUC held its annual Awards Night and Celebration Dinner last Friday.

The awards night was this year held at Villa Park and the 2019 Andy Becker Union Learning Rep Award was presented to Anthony Dytiche from Unite West Midlands and Herma Hughes from PCS.

Rob Johnston, TUC Midlands Policy and Campaigns Officer, explained:

The panel could not split these two Reps meaning we have joint winners this year.”

Anthony is a bus driver and Trade Union Learning Rep with Unite the Union at First Bus Potteries at Hanley in Stoke on Trent.

TUC Midlands Regional Secretary Lee Barron said:

Anthony is someone who has had a passion for learning for over 20 years – always striving to learn new skills and share with others.” 

 Recently Anthony has been promoting the Mental Health agenda at the garage he works with the programme now put in place in his workplace so impressing the employer that they are looking to roll out nationwide.   

Herma is a PCS ULR working at the Department of Work and Pensions in Birmingham, and well as siting on the unions National Black Members Committee 

Lee said:

Our other winner has an infectious personality who, since becoming active in the trade union movement, has been a hive of activity.”

As a qualified teacher, Herma has brought innovation and passion to the role of learning in the workplace, particularly for lower paid workers, with her efforts being recognised right across her union as a basis for strong organising initiatives.”

Herma is now also a graduate of the TUC’s Women in Leadership programme.