Why should you get involved in your union?

Louise Adams is a Prospect health and safety rep at United Utilities, and she successfully campaigned to have a menopause policy introduced in her workplace.

We spoke to her for this year’s International Women’s Day to hear her story and find out why she got involved in the union.

Tell us a bit about your role at United Utilities.

I am currently the Senior Scientist in the Street Works Laboratory at United Utilities (UU) based in Salford. I look after a small team testing cores taken from roads and pavements for air void to comply with the regulations. I am also on the Aspiring Managers Degree Apprenticeship programme and currently attending Manchester Metropolitan University alongside my day job studying for a management degree. My background is Biology and previous to my current role, I worked in the Life Sciences laboratory at UU testing drinking water for bacteria and parasites for almost 18 years.

Why did you join Prospect union?

I started at UU almost straight from full time education and my entire team were members of Prospect. The idea of being part of a collective voice had always made sense to me and I could see the benefits, so I joined. There are 4 unions recognised at UU but Prospect is definitely the best fit for me.

How did you first become a union rep?

A member of my team who was a rep was stepping down, and by this time I had become quite interested in getting more involved so put my name forward. I also became a health and safety rep and took over as the H&S lead for Prospect at UU in 2015. Since then, I have gained a diploma in occupational health and employment law which have helped in both rep roles. I really enjoy ensuring our members are listened to and try to resolve issues before they become formal.

Tell us about some of the union or branch campaigns you’ve been involved in?

As a branch we form part of the Joint Trade Union Forum (JTUF) here at UU. I sit on the policy working group with HR where we consult on, and drive policy changes and improvements. As well as ensuring all policies are fair for our members, in addition we have introduced a menopause policy, transitioning policy, equality and diversity policy and are currently working on a disability passport to name a few. We also form part of the pay negotiations that are happening as we speak.

In my role as lead H&S rep I have a close relationship with the H&S team alongside the lead reps from the other 3 unions. We have a seat at all H&S forums and are consulted when changes need to be made. We are currently going through a culture change programme to ensure everyone goes home safe and well.

What would you say to encourage more women to get involved in Prospect?

Being part of a union is so important to ensure your voice is heard. My industry is typically male dominated and often women’s issues in the workplace can be overlooked because of this. Changes are definitely happening though, with a drive to become more inclusive and we need to be part of that to ensure its success. On a personal level, my role as a union rep has given me lots of experience in speaking to people at all levels across the entire business. As a result, I have grown in confidence and gained skills I use in other parts of my work too.