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  9. Representing individual members: An introduction to casework - April, 2026, Online

Representing individual members: An introduction to casework - 23 April, 2026, Midlands Regions, Online

This is a course for reps who are new to representing individual members or those who are considering becoming more involved in the direct representation of members. More experienced reps are welcome to join as a refresher.

Representing courses

Course details

Nation/region:Midlands
Course meeting dates: 23, April, 2026

Please ensure you can attend the entire course prior to submitting your application  form. Please further ensure you have secured time off from your employer to attend.
Course meeting times:

9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. with regular breaks.

Course time commitment:8 hours (including pre-course work)
Location:

Online. The course materials will be on the ucu sharepoint platform. You will be issued with a login for which you will need to use an 'incognito' or 'private browsing' window. You will be given full instructions nearer the course, but keep in mind the logins are unique so you will not be able to ask to share access. Teaching will take place on the zoom platform for which a link will be sent.

Course closure date:

Application for this course will close at 12 noon on Monday 20th April, 2026. This is to allow course logistics and logins to be generated in good time. Applications beyond the closing date risk not being accepted.

Course content

This course will look at: 

  • UCU legal support scheme 
  • the role of the rep
  • effective communication with members seeking advice and representation
  • sources of support and information for members seeking representation
  • the importance of using individual cases for collective organisation and describe the circumstances and ways in which this can be done
  • how to develop a collaborative approach with the member and manage their expectations
  • confidentiality and conflicts of interest
  • your own rights and take care of your own well being when handling personal cases
  • how your institution/employers policies and procedures relate to individual representation
  • systems for dealing with individual casework in your branch
  • online communication with members 
UCU courses are funded via members' contributions and public funding.

Information Facility time

Online courses are no different to face-to-face courses in terms of time off for training. Time off for training is a right and one which should be exercised as part of normal industrial relations. For more info please see  Facilities and time off for UCU reps.

When you apply for a course we will assume that are making a commitment to attend the course as advertised, and have secured time off from your employer. Please contact your branch/region if you are having problems securing time off.

Please ensure you can attend the course in it's entirety. Thank you.