UNISON is committed to achieving equality: in our workplaces, in our union branches, and throughout UNISON's structures. Equality is also a high priority in our negotiating and campaigning work. It is one of UNISON's founding principles. For example, UNISON has been at the forefront of campaigns for equal pay, for rights at work for same sex partners and for proper protection for disabled workers. Tackling racism remains a key priority. UNISON is committed to ensuring that all our members are able to be involved in the union and have their voices heard.

Part of UNISON's approach to achieving equality is the organisation of groups of members who may themselves face prejudice and discrimination. UNISON has four self-organised groups - for women members, black members, disabled members and lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender members. Self-organised groups work in partnership with other parts of the union to identify and promote our equality agenda.

Your branch has 4 Self-Organised Group Officers and they would each like to set up a network of members to organise in equality matters. Please get in contact for further information:

Women Members: Claire Marsden (claire@unisoncymruwalesgas.org.uk)
Black Members: Kevin Thomas (kevin@unisoncymruwalesgas.org.uk)
LGBT Members: Simon Woods (simon@unisoncymruwalesgas.org.uk)
Disabled Members: Irene Humphreys (irene@unisoncymruwalesgas.org.uk)

Young members - for the under 27's

UNISON wants young members to play a full part in union activities and knows that young members need supporting in a variety of ways - for many young people it can be difficult in being taken seriously or speaking out with confidence in a room full of older people who can give the impression they know it all. That's why we have created a young members organisation in UNISON which is designed to:

* encourage recruitment and participation by young members * provide a voice for young members * give young members the chance to develop their skills and knowledge * support young members in becoming active in the wider union

We are developing a range of information, advice, support, training, and networking opportunities. Your Young Members Officer is Helen Martyn. Please get in contact if you'd like to join the network for all our young members! helenm@unisoncymruwalesgas.org.uk