Building your branch

The secret of union power is having a strong and active branch behind you. Building the strength and activity of your branch is the most important task for UCU workplace representatives; everything else flows from this. On this page you will find a range of guides to help you.

Model local rules

•  Word version (.rtf) [92kb] |  PDF file (.pdf) [144kb]

The committee

• Building the branch/LA committee:
   Word version (.doc) [165kb] |  PDF file (.pdf) [25kb]
• Aiming for representation of fixed-term and hourly paid members on local committees

Also look at Model Local Rules for information on the roles of the branch/LA officers.

Organising your branch

• Branch/LA health check exercise:
   Word version (.doc) [168kb] |  PDF file (.pdf) [24kb]
• Organising to build a strong and active branch/LA:
   Word version (.doc) [170kb] |  PDF file (.pdf) [30kb]
• Rebuilding a branch/LA: A checklist for action:
   Word version (.doc) [158kb] |  PDF file (.pdf) [19kb]
• Workplace mapping:
   Word version (.doc) [207kb] |  PDF file (.pdf) [39kb]
•  The appointment of trade union safety representatives (.doc) [163kb]
•  How many health and safety reps should there be? (.doc) [161kb]

Communicating with members

• Organising events:
   Word version (.doc) [160kb] |  PDF file (.pdf) [22kb]
• Organising meetings:
   Word version (.doc) [172kb] |  PDF file (.pdf) [46kb]
• Running formal meetings:
   Word version (.doc) [191kb] |  PDF file (.pdf) [37kb]
• Also look at Model Local Rules for more information on branch/LA general meetings and standing orders.
• How to produce leaflets:
   Word version (.doc) [158kb] |  PDF file (.pdf) [19kb]
• Sample staff survey:
   Word version (.doc) [185kb] |  PDF file (.pdf) [24kb]