Join Our Lobby for the February 2025 Budget Meeting

Budget Proposals
We recently met with the employer regarding the 2025 budget proposals. While we are now aware of the intended proposals and savings, we still have little supporting information. Additionally, we were informed that the list of proposals we reviewed needs further updates. Although we raised concerns during our brief discussion, we hope for more robust discussions as the proposals are confirmed.

Concerns
We understand this is an anxious time for all members across all services, and some of you may already be concerned following the recent community consultations. If any members have concerns, please contact the branch directly or your workplace steward. We are more than happy to meet with you to discuss your concerns. We can also arrange workplace meetings either in person or online.

There will also be a budget update at our AGM on Wednesday 19 February 2025 in the Council Chambers or Online in the evening. 

Lobbying
Stirling Council will hold their budget meeting on the 27th of February in the Council Chambers, Viewforth, where proposals will be considered and agreed upon.
Our branch is currently organizing a lobby outside Viewforth before the meeting convenes. We encourage all members who can attend to join us at Viewforth at 9:15 a.m. on the 27th of February.

regards
Lorraine Thomson
UNISON Stirling, Branch Secretary

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UNISONProtect – Working for Working Families

UNISONProtect aims to provide working people and their families with access to greater financial security through insurance policies that protect against the financial impact of major life trauma.

You are entitled to £5,000 of FREE Accidental Death Cover
I am pleased to let you know that your UNISON membership entitles you to free insurance cover, which pays your loved ones £5,000 if you die from an accident. Cover lasts for one year, then you can renew it for free. Please read the details below:

SJC Pay Claim 2025-26

Please see below a copy of the Local Government Claim lodged with the employers.

We have endeavoured to agree on a pay claim that accommodates all the trade unions’ aspirations. Unfortunately, we were unable to achieve this by the set submission date. We suggested further discussion around a joint submission, however the other trade unions felt there was little prospect of agreeing on a joint pay claim and decided to submit their own claims.

Our claim is pragmatic and aims to address the devaluation of local government worker pay through a process of pay restoration. It also continues to support UNISON’s call for a minimum of £15 an hour. Addressing these issues is essential to attract and retain the highest quality staff at every level within local government.

Summary of claim

  • A one-year settlement from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026.
  • A 6.5% increase to all spinal column points and related allowances, crucial for restoring pay levels and making significant progress towards UNISON claim for a minimum pay rate of £15 per hour.
  • Parity with other local government bargaining groups, ensuring no less than equal treatment.

Best regards,

Colette Hunter                                                                     David O’Connor

Chair                                                                                          Regional Organiser

Local Government Committee                                   Joint Lead Organiser – Local Government (Bargaining)

Training programme for UNISON activists

The 2025 Learning and Organising programme for UNISON activists in Scotland is out – offering a wide range of in-person and online courses, to enhance your knowledge and skills.

If you want to  book on a course please speak to your branch.

You can read our 2025 training programme, and more details about learning and organising here

Workplace stewards are the foundation of our union and last year UNISON proudly welcomed nearly 500 new stewards and safety representatives into our ranks, significantly strengthening our network across Scotland.

We offer training on representation, negotiation, health and safety, communication, campaigning, equalities and tackling discrimination and branch officer roles– to name just a few.

Our courses are friendly and informal. You don’t need any formal qualifications. We want to equip you with the essential skills you need to advocate for the rights and working conditions of those dedicated to delivering public services in Scotland.

UNISON Stirling Branch (AGM)

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGS (AGM)
19th February 2025

Meeting 1
In Person Council Chambers, Viewforth, Wednesday
19th February 2025, 12pm – 2pm, Refreshments Provided

Meeting 2
Teams Video Link, Wednesday 19th February 2025, 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).

Please see our website www.stirlingunison.co.uk for further guidance on how to register for the video link AGM.

Free Prize Draw

UNISON Christmas Party

This year’s Christmas party will be at the Corn Exchange in Stirling. This is a private party so only open to ticket holders.
We will have great entertainment, a disco, fabulous raffles prizes, a fantastic buffet and the first drink is on the house.
If you are looking your work night out then this is the place to be, lots of fun with colleagues throughout the council at an affordable price.
This year, you can also bring a friend or partner!

Where: Corn Exchange Stirling
When: Friday 13 December
Time: 7:30 till late
Tickets: ONLY £5 each

Come along for the best night of the year – Don’t miss it

Book your tickets now – email dicksony@stirling.gov.uk