UNISON has almost one million women members – more than two thirds of our union.
Women still earn a lot less than men and face sex discrimination and harassment at work. Our members also juggle work and home commitments. Many have caring responsibilities and almost half work part-time. This is why UNISON takes a lead on negotiating and campaigning on women’s rights at work and in the community.
Women must be able to participate fully in union activities and decision-making. We can only achieve our goal of promoting equality at work, in the community, in public services and in the union itself through active organisation to break down the barriers
The South East region also has a women’s committee (also known as a self-organised group) that campaign for improvements to women’s rights in the workplace and in the wider community and support campaigns aimed at improving women’s lives – for example, to change the law to protect women experiencing domestic violence, or to raise awareness of health issues which mainly affect women.
The Women’s Committee meet on a regular basis to develop policies, promote equality and encourage wider participation of women members at all levels of the union. The Committee also provide a number of courses for women each year such as, ‘Women’s History’, ‘Assertiveness Skills’, ‘Women, Work and Health’ – for more information please see the Regional Education programme.
As a member of UNISON, you have the support and guidance of thousands of other women members, who face the same workplace challenges as you. If you encounter issues such as the gender pay gap or denial of your maternity rights, UNISON can help you with practical information, support and legal advice.