Category: News

Public services across Scotland are facing some of the most significant challenges in decades. The Scottish government has announced plans to reform public services, cut jobs and slash millions from public service budgets. As proposals for public service reform develop, UNISON Scotland is clear that our members must have a strong voice in shaping what comes next.

In a joint statement to branches and activists, UNISON Scotland convenor Mark Ferguson and deputy convenor Louise Noble set out how the union will engage with reform proposals, represent members’ views and challenge decisions that put jobs or vital public services at risk. Reform must not become a smokescreen for cuts, or mean asking already stretched workers to deliver more with less.

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World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) takes place every year on September 10th and is organised by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP), with co-sponsorship from the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Suicide remains a leading cause of death globally, particularly among young people aged 15-29. The WHO estimates that over 700,000 people die by suicide each year, with many more attempting it. Prevention strategies shown to help include:

• School-based mental health programmes
• Training for frontline professionals to identify warning signs
• Postvention support for families and communities affected by suicide

If you or someone you know is struggling, Samaritans offer 24/7 confidential support in the UK and Ireland on 116 123

The ballot over Stirling Council’s failure to agree to UNISON’s demands over changing terms and conditions of employment due to the imposition of a new Organisational Change Policy, has now closed.

Those balloted were in Enforcement, Wellgreen Car Park, Street Cleansing and Waste.

Of voting members, 96% voted yes that they were prepared to take industrial action.

Lesley Russell, hugely respected Systems and Support Librarian is retiring after a phenomenal 49 years of service.

Lesley dedicated many years of service to UNISON, taking on several important representative roles, including Equalities Officer, Branch Secretary (2007–2009), and later Chair. She managed these commitments alongside the considerable demands of her day-to-day role, always finding time to support colleagues and members. No matter the issue, Lesley was invariably at the end of the phone, offering guidance, encouragement, and practical help. Her commitment and dedication have made a lasting impact on the branch and its members.