Branches across the region honour the day in a variety of different ways, including holding memorial services with other trade unions and trades councils in their local area.
As part of commemorating this year’s IWMD, we spoke with some of our activists involved in keeping workplaces safe.
What does International Workers Memorial Day mean to you?
“Workers Memorial Day is a time to remember all workers who lost their lives to workplace illness or injury, and to recommit ourselves to fighting to keep workers safe.” – Stephen Hull, Health & Safety Rep, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Police and Justice UNISON
“…a chance to pause and remember why health and safety is so important…”
“It is a reminder of how dangerous, even now, the workplace can be.” – Ann Marie Brittan, Health and Safety rep, Gosport and Fareham Borough UNISON
“It is a reminder that we should celebrate that staff who have fears for their safety can bring their concerns to their union if they are not being heard by their managers.” – Jenny Ford, Branch Secretary, Portsmouth Health UNISON
“Workers Memorial Day is a day to remember those who went to work and unfortunately didn’t return home.” – Gavin Thomas, Health and Safety Officer, Portsmouth City UNISON
“It’s a chance to pause and remember why health and safety is so important.” – Barry Olson, Health and Safety Rep, Southampton District UNISON
In terms of resolving health and safety issues with your employer, what would you say you are most proud of?
“I was asked to review a new style of ambulance for the Trust. I had the opportunity to advise on safety changes to the vehicle build which were implemented by the manufacturer, and will now benefit everyone. Also, for the first time, crews who are using them on the Isle of Wight have no complaints – so a great achievement!” – Allan Norman, Health and Safety Officer, Isle of Wight Health UNISON
“I’m proud of ensuring improved building ventilation continued beyond the Covid-19 pandemic.” – Charlotte Sunley, Health and Safety Officer, Southampton University UNISON
“…most pressing issues are resolved quickly once the union raises them…”
“I’m proud of the changes made to the reception in the former Community Rehabilitation Company office at the Civic offices so that it’s safe for staff to work in.” – Matt Harvey, Health and Safety rep, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Police and Justice UNISON
“I’m proud of how we dealt with a particularly violent assault on a member of staff last year.” – Mark Chiverton, Branch Secretary, UNISON Isle of Wight Local Government UNISON
“I’m proud that most pressing issues are resolved quickly once the union raises them with HR.” – Cian Wagstaffe, Branch Secretary, Gosport and Fareham Boroughs UNISON
With respect to health and safety where you work, what one thing would you like to achieve before Workers’ Memorial Day 2025?
“We want better risk assessments for disabled members that support them to do their jobs – and a formal disability absence and leave policy.” – Charlotte Sunley, Health and Safety Officer, Southampton University UNISON
“No big target – but to keep on with our work ensuring the employer and its buildings are compliant.” – Neill Payne, Branch Secretary, Havant UNISON
Being a health and safety rep means you will be playing a crucial role in making sure your workplace is safe, healthy, and secure for all your colleagues and service users.