A UNISON young members officer from Sheffield has won a prestigious national award for the work she has done in the role.
The Eric Roberts Award, named after the union’s former president, celebrates effective or innovative campaigning by young members – for workplace issues, or wider political campaigns.
Helena Fletcher, the young members officer for UNISON Sheffield community health branch, was nominated – with the branch highlighting that she’d “shown an enormous amount of enthusiasm towards the role of young members officer, the importance of union membership and celebrating diversity”.
The branch also mentioned that Helena’s “enthusiasm has become welcomely contagious amongst everyone she meets”.
UNISON Sheffield community health young members officer Helena Fletcher said: “I feel honoured to even be nominated by my branch – to win is an overwhelming surprise.
“I can’t thank the branch enough for their support with my learning, and for making me feel welcome and part of the team.
“I’m honoured, thankful and a bit shocked to win this award! I hope to continue driving change – and I’m hoping to encourage fellow members too.”
UNISON Sheffield community health assistant branch secretary Julie Marsland said: “The whole branch is incredibly proud of Helena.
“She’s done fantastic work since taking up the position of young members officer, and it felt right to do something to acknowledge that.
“We’re delighted that the National Young Members Forum have also recognised the great work she’s been doing. She fully deserves the award.”
Helena will be presented with the Eric Roberts Award at UNISON’s National Delegate Conference in Brighton in June.
Congratulations, Helena!
