Pages 19 Network Sept Oct 2013_usdaw 20/09/2013 12:33 Page 1 WWW.USDAW.ORG.UK | NETWORK IN THE SPOTLIGHT ACTIVIST IN-DEPTH Scottish division’s Stewart Walker answers our questions on his experiences as a rep I’m passionate about the way people at work are treated and wanted to make a difference to ensure people are treated fairly, and with compassion and respect. ~ ~ FACT FILE & TRIVIA FAST FACTS n Employer Tesco Bank n Occupation Customer collections representative n Age 47 n Lives Cambuslang in Glasgow (still classed as the largest village in Scotland) n Usdaw Activist since November 2011 n Married to my beautiful wife Elaine for 19 years. We first met 28 years ago when I was in the Navy. We met up seven years later and the rest is history as they say. MY FAVOURITE... n n n n for all so that everyone in our society is treated with care and compassion. I’d look to help those who want to get back into work, and ensure people are not penalised as they are at the moment. The best and worst things about being a rep? What are the important issues for your members at present? Seeing the difference we make for our members and watching management take action on problems we have raised. Unfortunately it can be hard to get away to help members at times due to work commitments. I find it difficult to turn people away, however I’ll always get back to them as soon as I can. Safety is a big issue, as we work in a large building with six floors we need to be pro-active with our evacuation plans. I’ve worked hard on this and have a good relationship with the Facilities Manager. We now have a plan in place which should see the staff feel more safe and secure in the building. Have you been on any union training courses? Is recruitment easy at your workplace? I have completed the health and safety courses through the STUC and also the shop steward course. I have also been to federation school and completed a weekend workshop in mental health awareness in the workplace. The training courses have all been to a high standard and I’ve really enjoyed them. Recruitment is going well within Tesco Bank as we are able to have regular recruitment events. In addition, awareness of the union is good as we have a dedicated intranet site for staff to find information on Usdaw. We are well supported by senior management. Our branch has a 26 per cent density within the Glasgow and Edinburgh sites with over 400 members, considering we started with a handful only three years ago, we’ve come on a long way. Why did you become a rep? Being a rep is the best decision I’ve made and I’m sure it’ll be the same for anyone who takes up the challenge Book... The Battle for the Falklands TV... Top Gear The last film I saw... The Cruel Sea The best moment of my life so far...Was when my wife was told she was in remission from cancer. n I spend my spare time... I enjoy reading. I’m currently studying for a diploma in Financial Crime and Money Laundering. I also like walking and spending time with my family. Network is looking for the next Activist in-Depth, email us if you’d like to tell your story ✉ [email protected] Have you changed as a person since you became active? I’m more assertive and feel a much stronger person in dealing with the company over health and safety matters, a firm hand is needed in this area and I feel my training has taught me to be firm when required. What did you think of ADM? I learnt a lot and the experience was great. I felt it was a great induction into what the union does and stands for. I made some good friends from different parts of the country and have already booked time off for next year. It was good to see our branch take its place on the national stage, and hopefully I’ll be selected as a delegate next year. What law would you introduce if you were prime minister? I would create a fairer benefits system Any advice for a member thinking about being a rep? I’d say to any member that this is a great role to take on. I’d advise them to speak to their local rep, or official and get involved. It’s the best decision I’ve made and I’m sure it’ll be the same for anyone who takes up the challenge. It’s a very rewarding and satisfying role. There can be challenges, but the help and support you get from your fellow reps is invaluable and this has made me a much stronger and confident person. What’s next for you? I’m hoping to get to Summer School in 2014 and learn more about Usdaw and how to be more pro-active within the workplace and maybe one day work for the union as an area organiser. SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER | 19