To develop the next generation of leaders within the union, UNISON Yorkshire & Humberside is delighted to be running our inaugural Leadership Programme.
This will be open to active members with the aspiration to help lead our union, who would welcome the opportunity to develop their skills as part of a dynamic network of activists.
This year, 2024, we are focussing on Women’s Leadership and, in the legacy of the 2023 Year of the Black Worker and 2024 Year of the LGBT+ Worker, we also encourage Black Women and LGBT+ Women to apply.
To be considered, applicants must commit to attending the whole course and must confirm their availability for all dates.
The residential events will take place at the Leeds Regional Centre with accommodation at a nearby hotel. Online events will be held via Teams.
Our regional Women’s Leadership Programme is a specialised initiative designed to empower and support our women members through the development and deployment of their leadership skills. The programme aims to maximise the influence and opportunity they can achieve through their Trade Union roles and activities and foster personal and professional growth.
Components of our Women’s Leadership Programme
Leadership Development: We will provide training and resources focused on leadership skills such as communication, negotiation, decision-making, conflict resolution, and strategic thinking.
Mentorship and Coaching: We will pair participants with mentors or coaches who can offer guidance, advice, and support based on their own experiences in leadership positions.
Networking: We will facilitate an opportunity to develop lasting connections and support networks within a diverse community of leaders and peers.
Skill-Building Workshops: We will conduct workshops and seminars covering a wide range of topics including time management, public speaking, self-confidence, and other relevant skills crucial for leadership roles.
UNISON Activism Journey Advancement Strategies: We will offer guidance on navigating the union’s structures, breaking through barriers, and pursuing advancement opportunities.
Personal Development: We will focus on personal growth, work-life balance, stress management, and overcoming challenges faced by women in leadership positions.
Community Engagement: We will encourage involvement in other community initiatives outside of the union, building support networks, and contributing to the broader discussion around gender equality and women’s empowerment.
Benefits of our Women’s Leadership Programme
Empowerment: You will be equipped with the tools, skills, and confidence necessary to succeed in leadership roles. This will be of great benefit not just in your UNISON activism journey but also wider in your work and life.
Networking: You will have an opportunity to develop lasting connections and support networks within a diverse community of leaders and peers.
Skill Enhancement: We will offer targeted training and development opportunities to enhance your leadership capabilities.
UNISON Activism Journey Advancement: We will provide resources and strategies for your union activism progression and support and tips to help you break through barriers.
Visibility and Recognition: We will highlight the achievements and contributions of women leaders, fostering a culture of recognition and appreciation.
Organisational Impact: Our leadership programme will improve the diversity and inclusivity of women within our region which can lead to better decision-making and innovation.
Our programme will play a crucial role in addressing gender disparities in our leadership positions, empowering women to take on more new and challenging roles in the union and contribute to a more diverse and inclusive regional union.
This is a high quality intensive 12-month programme including three weekend residentials in central Leeds as well as two online sessions and follow up mentoring.
Each of the three residentials will be part facilitated by an external partner (Vivid Minds) who have worked with UNISON over several years in delivering bespoke Leadership programmes. Four regional staff are also facilitating this programme.
Cost to branches is £1,300. Branches can apply to pay in instalments but must commit to the entire programme.
Branches experiencing real hardship in meeting these costs can apply for regional match funding providing evidence of hardship. Travel and other expenses will need to be met by branches.
Timetable of events
Introduction to the Leadership Programme – Online 1-hour max (date tbc)
Weekend Residential 1 – 7pm Friday 12 April 2024 – 3:30pm Sunday 14 April 2024
Online Day Session 1 – Thursday 4 July 2024 (09:30 – 12:00pm)
Weekend Residential 2 – 10am Saturday 12 October 2023 – 3:30pm Sunday October 2024
Online Day Session 2 – Thursday 30 January 2025 (09:30 – 12:00pm)
Weekend Residential 3 – 10am Saturday 8 March 2025 – 3:30pm Sunday 9 March 2025
How to sign up
Complete the application form and send this to be received at the regional office before 5pm on the 8 March 2024.
Once we have received your form and your application has been approved, we will approach the Branch Secretary for their support. If you have already secured their support, then countersign the form indicating this.
We will send you further registration details on final acceptance.