Celebrating our reps in the public services sector

This spring, our Public Services team launched a new initiative, Celebrating Reps, designed to bring workplace representatives together to share experiences, strengthen connections, and build collaboration across branches.

The first event took place in York on 8 April, followed by a second session in London on 16 May. Each workshop drew a diverse mix of reps from across the sector, including colleagues from departments, agencies, and organisations such as the Forestry Commission, UKHSA, MCA, NPL, DEFRA, and the University of Greenwich.

Both events provided an open and engaging space for reps to reflect on their roles, exchange ideas, and explore solutions to shared challenges. Conversations centred around five key themes:

• Let’s Talk About It – creating open dialogue about the realities of engaging members

• Growing Stronger – developing leadership capacity and union presence

• Successes and Challenges – learning from wins and setbacks

• Social Media & Visibility – building engagement and profile

• Making Connections – strengthening relationships across branches

Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive. Reps valued the opportunity to meet colleagues from different workplaces, share best practice, and explore how to better support members. Many also highlighted the importance of improving communication between branches and the Public Services Sector Executive Committee, sparking conversations about how to build stronger links with this vital body.

The energy and commitment shown at both York and London underline the importance of continuing this programme. By creating regular opportunities for reps to connect, we can foster solidarity, share resources, and strengthen our collective voice.

The next Celebrating Reps event will be held in the West Midlands, with more planned across the country. Together, these workshops are helping to shape the future of union activity and help us build a stronger, more connected rep network.