Free funding for reps who want to learn more
Recognising that juggling home, work and being an active representative can leave little time for study, SoR reps are being urged to apply for funding to help them develop leadership skills.
An accredited rep can apply for money from the Bryan Macey Scholarship to cover course fees and expenses up to a total amount of £1500. The chosen course does not have to be trade union specific because typical leadership programmes cover the skills and attributes that trade union reps need such as communicating and negotiating effectively, presentation skills, getting the best from people and managing difficult conversations.
Applications are welcomed from reps either who want to attend a shorter course or who wish to go for a post-graduate degree, such as an MA or MSc in an industrial relations related topic.
There are just three criteria for consideration. Reps must have:
- Already completed a SoR or TUC induction course;
- Can show that they are an active rep; and
- Can describe how their chosen course will benefit both themselves and the SoR.
The successful applicant will receive funding of up to £1500 towards course fees, accommodation and travel. If costs exceed this amount, applicants must accept responsibility for paying any additional costs incurred.
Applications must be submitted no later than 30 March 2012. They will be considered by a panel and the successful applicants will be announced during the Annual Delegates Conference in Leeds which takes place from 22-24 April.
Helen Wickham, the Society's Lead Officer for trade union education, commented: “This is a brilliant opportunity for reps to be able to attend the course that most suits their developmental needs.
"Through the SoR courses and longer TUC courses, we can provide the nuts and bolts of trade unionism. This scholarship allows a rep to go beyond that and be exposed to external training in the specific area of leadership," she continued.
Click here to find out more and to go to the application form.