Author: Stirling Websites

An Inspirational Woman – International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day gives us the chance not only to reflect on the inequalities women have faced, but also to recognise and celebrate the women whose leadership, strength, and solidarity shape our workplaces and our union.

Today, UNISON Stirling Branch is proud to honour the exceptional contribution of our Branch Secretary, Lorraine Thomson.

For the past 13 years, Lorraine has been a steadfast advocate for our members—negotiating, bargaining, and campaigning for fairer working conditions, improved pay, and strong public services. Her commitment to equality and justice has strengthened our Branch and made a real difference to the lives of countless colleagues.

Lorraine’s leadership is matched by her humanity. She has been a trusted friend and colleague to many, offering support, guidance, and a listening ear through some of the most challenging moments in our workplaces. She is supportive, knowledgeable, and always willing to stand beside others when they need it most.

Her dedication has often meant giving up time with her own family to ensure the Branch has her full commitment. She has consistently gone above and beyond what has ever been expected of her, demonstrating a level of care and responsibility that truly sets her apart.

On International Women’s Day, we celebrate Lorraine not only as a dedicated Branch Secretary and strong female activist, but as someone whose presence, integrity, and compassion continue to inspire us all. We thank her sincerely for everything she has done—and continues to do—for our members and our Branch.

Lorraine has spoken passionately on women’s issues both locally and nationally, ensuring that women’s voices are heard, respected, and valued.

Through her mentorship and support, she has inspired and guided many newer female activists within the Branch and beyond, helping to build confidence, solidarity, and lasting change. Her dedication to equality and justice continues to strengthen our Branch and empower future generations.

With gratitude and solidarity on International Women’s Day, and on behalf of Stirling UNISON, we wish Lorraine every success in her new adventure.

International Women’s Day on 8 March

International Women’s Day on 8 March grew out of early 20th‑century movements for women’s rights, beginning with employment protests and expanding into a global call for equality. It marks both the achievements of women and the ongoing struggle for social, political, and economic rights.

 Early roots in the United States (1908–1909)

  • In 1908, 15,000 women marched through New York City demanding shorter working hours, better pay, and voting rights.
  • The first National Woman’s Day was held on 28 February 1909, declared by the Socialist Party of America.

 International adoption (1910–1913)

  • At a 1910 international socialist women’s conference, German activists Luise Zietz and Clara Zetkin proposed creating an annual Women’s Day to promote women’s rights, including suffrage. Delegates from 17 countries supported the idea.
  • Early observances varied by country, often held in late February.

Why March 8? (1914 onward)

  • By 1914, many European countries began marking the day on 8 March, aligning with growing political activism and the push for women’s suffrage.
  • Over time, 8 March became the standard date worldwide, commemorating women’s fight for equality and liberation.

Becoming a global movement

  • Throughout the 20th century, International Women’s Day expanded into a broader word-wide celebrations.
  • Today it is recognised by the United Nations and celebrated worldwide as a day to honour women’s achievements and call for gender equality.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGS

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGS 18th February 2026

Meeting 1 in Person Council Chambers, Viewforth, Wednesday
18th February 2026, 12pm – 2pm, Refreshments Provided

Meeting 2 Teams Video Link, Wednesday 18th February 2026 6p.m-7.30p.m

Business begins meeting 1, Council Chambers, Viewforth 12:00noon sharp and meeting 2 online 6p.m sharp.

Please note this year we will be holding 2 meetings on this date 1 in person and 1 online to increase and encourage wider participation (your attendance is required at only one of these meetings depending on your preference).

If you are attending our on line AGM then you should register for this asap by e-mailing Lorraine Thomson, UNISON Stirling Branch Secretary e-mail thomsonl34s@stirling.gov.uk.

Free Prize Draw

UNISON briefing and press coverage – Children (Care) Bill Stage 1 vote

The Children (Care, Care Experience etc) Bill receives its Stage 1 debate and vote in parliament tomorrow (Wed 14th)

A UNISON briefing about the bill’s failure to remove profit from the care of looked after children was sent to all MSPs a day ago (web link: https://unison-scotland.org/msp-briefing-children-care-care-experience-services-planning-bill-stage-1-debate/)

Coverage in The Herald today SNP face breaking Sturgeon’s Promise to children | The Herald

MSP-Brief-Childrens-services-Bill-Jan-2026

Unison Stirling Branch LG Organisational Change Policy Dispute/Grievance Update

We advised members of concerns and the decision taken at a full committee meeting of Stirling Council held on Thursday 26th June 2025 to change and implement a new Organisational Change Policy despite the UNISON Stirling Branch having raised concerns in relation to the changes proposed, lack of information/detail, lack of robust/meaningful consultation and erosion of our members terms and conditions. We issued the employer with the grievance/dispute on the 21st July 2025.

Failure to Consult Letter Greivance/Dispute

We can now advise that we met with the employer on the 2nd September to discuss our Grievance dispute, however at that point there was no further movement in relation to our concerns. The UNISON Stirling Branch Executive took the decision on the 16th September to move to a consultative ballot of all our Stirling Council members on this matter. Since notifying the employer of this decision to move to an all members ballot the employer has reached out and has advised they wish to have further discussions. Whilst we are happy to engage on this matter in the hope of achieving a satisfactory resolution that we can put to our members the UNISON Stirling Branch Executive have made the decision to continue with the consultative ballot in the event that talks fail to address the concerns we have raised with the employer.

On that basis to allow preparation for the ballot we ask all members to immediately check that all their UNISON membership details are up to date particularly their e-mail address. You can do this by going to your MyUNISON account or by contacting UNISON direct on 0800 0857 857. The consultative ballot will be a digital ballot and your ballot will be sent directly to the e-mail address we hold for you.