Initiatives extend training's reach

Two unions are taking action to extend the reach of their learning and training operations.

In a major initiative to boost its influence in the private sector, public services union UNISON is offering places on its educational courses to private companies that don't have the resources to train their own staff to encourage closer working.

However, the programme will be available only to companies that are willing to form a partnership with the union.

"In return for our expertise in workplace learning, we would like greater recognition and better negotiating rights," said general secretary Dave Prentis. "This will allow our private company partnerships to grow, with benefits for all."

UNISON already provides training to public sector organisations in areas such as basic computer and literacy skills, and English as a second language (ESOL).

"Our union has the knowledge and experience to deliver training to those that need it the most - the low-paid, low-skilled workforce," added Prentis. "Some private companies don't have the resources to offer training to these workers. We can offer them bespoke courses that meet their needs."

The scheme has been welcomed by outsourcing companies, with the human resources director of one firm describing it as "fantastic".

Meanwhile, the CWU communication workers' union has launched a website to encourage all its members into learning and training.

The site, at www.cwueducation.org, contains support and information for workplace learning reps, but is aimed primarily at ordinary members of the CWU who are interested in getting back into learning but do not know how to go about it.

A wealth of information on training courses and contacts is already available, broken down by region, and an online booking system for the activist education programme will be added to the site next month.

"This website will be a real focal point for union learning," said CWU head of education and training Trish Lavelle. "It will refer even more of our members to their nearest union learning centre or rep for support and guidance, so that eventually we can reach out to every single member."