Wales Blog listing
'169' blogs listed
50 years of TUC Cymru: 50 years of changes from devolution to diversity
As trade unionists gather in Llandudno for TUC Cymru Congress 2024 Shavanah Taj reflects on the last two, and 50, years of our movement.
TUC Cymru 50: Pride and the miners’ strike
In the 2014 award-winning film Pride, Dai Donovan is the warm, good-humoured Welsh miner who meets Lesbians and Gays Support the Miners (LGSM) in London and then, back home in Wales, hosts members of the group on his living-room floor. He’s undoubtedly one of the heroes of the film.
50 years of TUC Cymru: Campaigning for equality puts the menopause on the map
How the menopause became one of TUC Cymru's biggest ever workplace equality campaigns.
50 years of TUC Cymru: Wales Union Learning Fund
For 25 years workers in Wales have been able to access training and learning in their workplace thanks to a Welsh Government funded programme called WULF. Find out how his union and Wales Union Learning Fund helped Mark keep his job, and change his life.
50 years of TUC Cymru: A guiding light for Welsh devolution
50 years ago, the union movement in Wales gathered in Aberystwyth to enact a plan that had been years in the making. The outcome of this meeting would reshape the trade union movement in the UK, and be a guiding light for the path of Wales as a nation.
International Workers' Memorial Day: why we remember the dead and fight for the living
This week, workers across Wales and the world will be remembering those who lost their lives due to work
The Welsh Advantage: supporting trade unions on their Welsh language journey
Wales TUC is committed to improving our own Welsh language offering to trade union members. Now we’re starting to support trade unions on their own Welsh language journeys.
Unions should lead the way on devolution
"I’m very pleased to be able to contribute to the discussion prompted by the Devolution and Work Commission report on behalf of PCS, a union with a longstanding commitment to democratic devolution; our main predecessor unions campaigned for an Assembly in the 1997 referendum and we also backed the ‘yes’ campaign in the 2011 referendum on primary law-making powers."
(Darren Williams, PCS National Officer for Wales)
Why do we keep working for free?
Today is Work Your Proper Hours Day – a day the TUC created two decades ago to draw attention to the huge problem of unpaid overtime.
A View from Down Under: Australia's Push on Workers' Rights
In a guest blog post Gareth Hathway details how Australia’s unions and its Labor Government are driving forward fair work by shutting down loopholes in work regulations.
Workers at Welsh ports and airports could lose the right to strike
Hundreds of workers in Wales, working in ports and airports could effectively lose their right to strike, thanks to harsh new regulations introduced by the UK government.
Newid! A programme for young trade unionists launches in Wales
When young trade unionists interviewed young workers in hospitality and retail in Cardiff and Merthyr Tydfil the results were eye-opening.
Fear, optimism and determination: trade unionists respond to artificial intelligence in myriad ways
More and more, artificial intelligence is being used to manage workers and assist with other tasks in workplaces across Wales. But what are the implications? Wales TUC, Connected by Data and Dr Juan Grigera have been speaking with trade unionists to find out about their experiences.
Future of Devolution and Work in Wales Report: Home Truths and Next Steps
Wales TUC General Secretary Shavanah Taj responds to the publication of the Future of Devolution and Work in Wales report.
Wales TUC Black Activist Development Programme is a leadership programme like no other
Wales TUC’s Black Activist Development Programme was launched in March 2023. Tansaim Hussain-Gul is one of 9 participants on the programme and she’s been telling me all about her experiences so far and how this programme is different from other leadership programmes she’s been part of.
How AI is using creatives' work, voices and images
How AI is using creatives' work, voices and images
Poor workplace democracy can hinder innovation and health and safety, union reps say
Poor workplace democracy can hinder innovation and health and safety, union reps say
Dismantling my language barrier through workplace learning
As a child I always felt that the Welsh language was something ‘other’, something different and removed from my life. But recently I’ve realised how much it’s influenced my life and how I’ve always been surrounded by the language, even when I didn’t notice it.
How workers at a further education college are taking the initiative on AI deployment
How workers at a further education college are taking the initiative on AI deployment
Young workers from Wales take on Norwegian Summer Patrol
Young workers from Wales take on Norwegian Summer Patrol
Artificial intelligence is cleverer than you, workers told
New technology is being forced on workers without consent. But trade union members are determined to resist the negative aspects of artificial intelligence.
Investigating how AI is understood and impacting Welsh workers and trade unionists
Wales TUC are looking into how AI is affecting workers across different sectors, and how trade unionists are managing the increasing roll out of data-driven technologies. Is tech threatening your job or terms and conditions?
Becoming a trade union rep just before the Covid-19 pandemic
Becoming a trade union rep just before the Covid-19 pandemic, By Stacey Keane, midwife in Cwm Taf Morganwg and member of the Royal College of Midwives.
Finding confidence and inner strength through my union
Finding confidence and inner strength through my union, by Marjorie Magsino, a nurse at Moriston Hospital and UNISON member
The day everything changed: midwifery during the Covid-19 pandemic
The day everything changed: midwifery during the Covid-19 pandemic, By Suzanne Hardacre, Head of Midwifery in Cardiff during the Covid-19 pandemic and member of the Royal College of Midwives
Social Partnership: a new way forward for Wales
The Social Partnership and Public Procurement Act is a landmark piece of legislation. But what does it mean for you and why is the Act so important?
A Wales where everyone is free to be themselves – why we need to make workplaces inclusive for LGBTQ+ workers
"I believe the new Wales TUC 10 step action plan will help bring about the change we need to see for LGBTQ+ workers in Wales."
Welsh workers remember their colleagues who were killed at work while the UK government plans to remove British laws which make workplaces safe
On 28 April, workers across Wales who lost their lives at work will be remembered in a national ceremony in Cardiff attended by the First Minister.
Meanwhile in Westminster, ministers are planning to trash British safety protections for workers in an ideological attack on standards.
Why we need Fair Funding for Wales
People in Wales are enduring the worst cost of living crisis for a generation. Nisreen Mansour explains what Wales TUC is calling on the UK Government to do to deliver better for Wales.
Where would we be without Trade Union women?
On International Women’s Day Rhianydd Williams highlights some Welsh Trade Union women heroes who inspire her today.
Expanding our Welsh language services on St David’s Day
On 1 March we celebrate all things Welsh – our food, our music, our beautiful landscapes and vibrant cities, our strong trade union tradition and, of course, our language.
This Apprenticeship Week, join a union
As an apprentice, you have the right to join a trade union. Trade unions exist to represent, protect and support their members in the workplace.
For too long apprentices haven’t been treated fairly. Only the trade union movement can protect them properly, celebrating their contribution all year round.
Unions and the World of Work: essential lessons on workplace rights for students across Wales
When the students of today enter the workplaces of tomorrow they need to be armed with the knowledge to keep them safe from exploitation and harm. This is the only way to enable them to have the rewarding careers they deserve.
The next step on our Welsh Language journey: launching our Welsh Language Forum
Earlier this year TUC Cymru launched our ‘Cynnig Cymraeg Welsh Language Offer’ setting out what you can expect to receive in Welsh when communicating with us.
The Welsh Language is an important part of our commitment to equality and diversity. And one of the ways in which we are developing Welsh Language support for our affiliate Unions in Wales is by launching our Welsh Language Forum in 2023.
One year on from the global climate conference in Glasgow, what’s changed in Wales for workers?
One year ago, I was representing Welsh workers at the Cop 26 global climate meeting of world leaders in Glasgow. The meeting agreed a set of targets and actions to tackle global warming.
The president of the conference, Alok Sharma, said it was an “historic agreement which kept the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5C above pre-industrial levels in reach.”
But one year on, what is the reality?
Trade unions are changing the way we think about menopause in the workplace
In the past few years trade unions in Wales have helped make some big, and small, improvements in the workplace for women going through the menopause.
Working people are using food banks in Swansea – it's time to demand better
Wales TUC and Swansea trades council are holding a rally at the Volcano Theatre on Swansea High Street on Monday 10 October.
Ahead of the rally Gareth Bromhall, the Secretary of Swansea trades council, writes about the impact the cost-of-living crisis is having on people in Swansea.
Nine in ten of us feel our work has made our mental health worse – we need urgent changes in the workplace
Linsey Imms reveals shocking statistics from our recent mental health survey, and explains what we can do to make life better for all workers in Wales.
“If you don’t fight you will always lose”
New Wales TUC President, Brendan Kelly, tells us about his priorities for the year ahead and why he’ll be marching in London on 18 June.
A stronger social partnership
The Social Partnership and Public Procurement Bill has been published today, opening a new chapter in the relationship between unions, government and employers.
Cynnig Cymraeg: Why we’re committed to communicating bilingually
Our Bilingual Communications Officer explains why we’re pleased to be launching our Cynnig Cymraeg (Welsh Offer).
What makes a good job?
If I asked you what you like about your job, I hope you’d be able to come up with a few things. But if I asked you what you don’t like about your job, would that be a longer list?
Reaching out – combating loneliness when working from home
This week is Mental Health Awareness week and the theme this year is loneliness. Loneliness is a serious issue for people working from home on a regular basis, and it can have a significant impact on wellbeing if not addressed.
Your rights on returning to work after having a baby
This Mothers Day, Wales TUC's Ffion Dean discusses her experiences of becoming a mother, her thoughts about returning to work, and what your rights are after having a baby.
How can the trade union movement raise our voices for action against racial discrimination?
The theme of this year’s UN International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination was ‘voices for action against racism’. Now that we have raised our voices, what actions can the trade union movement do to make sure that we raise our voices against racism, and that our actions are not performative empty gestures?
Supply teachers in Wales are treated as second class citizens by schools and agencies
At Wales TUC we want to see supply teachers receive the rewards they deserve as dedicated educators. We've raised the issue with Welsh Government and are pushing for an end to the private agency provision of supply teachers.
Break the bias: the role of women in today’s trade union movement
If you were to close your eyes and think of the typical trade unionist, it’s quite possible that you’d imagine a stereotypical image – a white, middle-aged man. It’s true that our movement has many members who look like this, and they are important and valued members. But we are so much more than that.
Reaching younger workers – how to build your branch
HeartUnions week is a great time to reach out to new members, especially younger members. Read our new blog with practical tips on how to build your union branch.
Establishing the first ever train driving apprenticeship for Wales
Emma Penman tells us how ASLEF successfully campaigned for the first ever Train Driver Apprenticeship for Wales
Time for the ‘unsung heroes’ of the school day to be recognised
At the beginning of 2022 teaching assistants are being called into schools again to supervise vulnerable children. Will our hardworking TAs ever get the praise and recognition they deserve?
A moment in time to tame technology
As new technology expands rapidly in the workplace, Unions should take advantage of their relative strength to demand and secure a long term futures of their members.
The importance of tolerance in a divided world
On International Day for Tolerance, Wales TUC's Liam Perry looks at where things are going wrong in the physical and digital world, and what needs to be done to create a more tolerant and respectful society.
COP26 Diary: The Fight for a Just Transition
Wales TUC General Secretary Shavanah Taj reflects on a week as a delegate at COP 26 in Glasgow and on Wales TUC's new research showing how workers can gain from the transition to Net Zero - if their voices are heard.
WULF 2022-25: How union-led learning can tackle Wales's skills challenges
The new round of Wales Union Learning Fund (WULF) projects are ideally positioned to help Wales meet the challenges of the future economy by amplifying the voice of the worker and increasing fairness and individual choice in the adult learning and skills system.
Black History Month in Wales: History, statues and today's battles
As we mark Black History Month, Wales TUC's Billy Mazoya reflects on progress in Wales - and how much more is left to do.
How have unions led the way on the menopause?
Wales TUC's Rhianydd Williams writes about how unions have been at the forefront of securing rights and dignity at work for women going through the menopause.
Wales needs an honest discussion about identity and division
Far too often Welsh civic and political leaders gloss over the real divisions in Wales on key social issues. New research shows that we need a more open and honest discussion.
Covid as an industrial disease: What it would mean for workers in Wales
How classifying Covid as an industrial disease could open up access to greater financial support for workers. But such a move would need support from the UK Government.
Living Wage for care workers in Wales: A start but not enough
This afternoon Welsh Government will make a statement on its plans to introduce a real Living Wage for social care workers. So who will this make the most difference to? And is addressing hourly pay in the sector enough?
Celebrating the Windrush Generation on Windrush Day
On National Windrush Day, Wales TUC Equality Officer Billy Mazoya writes about the history of the Windrush Generation and the impact that they've had on Wales
Labour market enforcement: How Wales can lead on reforming a broken system
Addressing the failings of our labour market enforcement system must be central to building a Fair Work Wales.
Reshaping the Welsh economy - now is the moment
The First Minister should feel emboldened to use the political capital that he’s won to reshape the Welsh economy in a way that provides real results for working people.
Our movement needs to step up for young workers
Our movement needs to grow if we are to continue to be one that can change the world of work. Young workers are essential to this process and trade unions need to address the challenge of increasing union membership amongst young people.
Rebuilding for Good Jobs: Why the next Welsh Government must focus on job quality
If we're going to come out of the Covid crisis with a fairer economy and a more equal Wales then the next Welsh Government must confront the grim realities of our labour market and target job quality - not just unemployment.
What Workers in Wales Want: 5 Priorities for the Next Senedd Term
Between December 2020 and April 2021 we worked with YouGov to talk to thousands of workers across Wales to better understand how they view their working lives, their experiences of the Covid crisis, and their priorities for the future of the country.
Wales's Social Partnership Bill: A chance for change
Progress on the Welsh Government’s Fair Work agenda has been stop-start in the two years since the independent Fair Work Commission published its ambitious set of recommendations. The new Social Partnership Bill is a chance to give it proper momentum.
Air pollution - a workplace issue
Air pollution is blighting communities. It is affecting the health of workers on their journeys to and from work. It also harms workers while they are at work (both those working indoors and out). It’s why tackling air pollution is a key priority for unions.
The fight for dignity and security for older workers
Increasing numbers of people are working into later life but too many are being forced out of work due to ill health and consigned to poverty. We cannot allow this to continue and change needs to happen now to protect older workers from an uncertain future.
How can we make the remote working revolution less middle class?
What can be done to make sure that the Welsh Government's commitment to supporting more remote working doesn't end up re-enforcing inequalities in the labour market.
International Women’s Day 2021: A woman’s place is in her union
On International Women's Day, Wales TUC General Secretary Shavanah Taj argues that women deserve a feminist, intersectional recovery. But it will only be achieved if women workers are at the heart of recovery plans and at the decision-making tables.
Covid workplace safety in Wales: Enforce the rules and listen to workers
Too many employers in Wales have not followed the Welsh Government's guidance on Covid safe workplaces. New regulations will need to be properly monitored and enforced if they are to be effective - and that includes making sure workers are heard.
HeartUnions: the value of union learning in Wales
During Heart Unions week, we celebrate trade unions and how they make life better for working people. One of the most important ways they do this is through union learning and skills training, something that changes the lives of learners for the better.
Wales needs a better Self-Isolation Support Scheme
Changes need to be made to Wales' Self-Isolation Support Scheme to make sure that all lower paid workers are getting the help they need to isolate.
Making our workplaces in Wales a better, fairer place
Making our workplaces in Wales a better, fairer place
It’s never been more important for workers and employers to be aware of their workplace rights and responsibilities.
Problem Gambling - a trade union issue
Over the last 15 years the gambling industry has changed beyond recognition. Since the passing of the 2005 Gambling Act the sector has grown at an alarming pace.
How men are taught that their mental health doesn’t matter - we can change that
How men are taught that their mental health doesn’t matter - we can change that
Covid-19 Firebreak in Wales: what it means for you
Firebreak lockdown regulations will be introduced in Wales from 23 October. Find out everything you need to know about the lockdown and what your rights are as a worker.
Black History Month: Let’s choose joy
I think we can all agree that 2020 has been quite a year. The Covid crisis has shown us more clearly than ever that, even if we're all in the same sea, some of us are in very different boats. And some of us are floating in the water just trying our best not to go under.
Learning Welsh at work: proof that you can teach an old dog new tricks
All my adult life I’ve made excuses about why I didn’t speak Welsh like “I didn’t learn it in school” or “my family didn’t speak Welsh”. I was embarrassed every time I was asked. But the truth was the real reason I didn’t speak Welsh was that I had never bothered to learn.
Trade unions – bringing people together
I’ve written previously about the impact of coronavirus on the BME community, anti-Semitism, and anti-Chinese racism. This week I’m looking at something a lot more positive – the role of trade unions in tackling the far-right.
I am not a virus – anti-Chinese racism and coronavirus
The far-right are always seeking to normalise racist attitudes and behaviours. Legitimate criticism of the actions of the Chinese state have been hijacked. Chinese visitors and students, as well as UK citizens of Chinese or South-East Asian heritage, have been personally blamed for the pandemic.
An old libel – coronavirus & anti-Semitism
Anti-Semitic tropes, dating back to the Middle Ages, are being used by the far-right in the coronavirus age.
Hatred in the age of coronavirus
Coronavirus is, in many ways, showing the best of British. But alongside this humanity, we’ve seen a rise in hatred. Far-right extremists have tried to take advantage of coronavirus to spread division. They’re undermining our communities, our trade unions and our hard fought for rights.
Coronavirus - a turning point for cycling to work?
Wales is becoming a safer place to cycle. Local authorities have new funding to set up networks of segregated ‘pop-up’ cycleways and more people are getting out and about on their bikes.
Will this lead to a long-term change in the way we travel to work? And what can unions do to get employers to provide support and facilities for those who want to cycle?
Returning to Safe Workplaces in Wales
Whether working from home, already back at work or preparing to return, we’re all facing changing times. Shops, businesses and schools opening means that not only do we need to make sure our workplaces are safe but that our commutes are safe too.
A new job in a new world
I’ve recently joined the Wales TUC team so have first-hand experience of the challenges a new starter faces, and the bizarre circumstances they will need to adjust to. I’ve put together some advice on how to navigate the strange waters of a starting a new job during the coronavirus.
Live to learn, learn to live
I hated school and formal education but have found a passion for learning now, my story proves it's never too late.
Our vision for a green recovery after coronavirus
Building the recovery from Coronavirus is a once in a generation challenge. But it is also an opportunity that must be seized.
Coronavirus lockdown: what health and safety reps can do
The Covid-19 pandemic has upended normal working practices, especially for trade union health and safety reps. Whether working from home or as key workers, everyone is facing new and often difficult ways of working.
Six tips for better communication with workers with an Autism Spectrum Condition
If you’ve got colleagues with an Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) then World Autism Awareness Week (30 March – 5 April) is a good time to think about how you communicate in the workplace.
Learn something new from home
Ready to learn a new skill? Or even consider a change of career? Here's a selection of online learning offers to try.
How do we look after our mental health during the coronavirus crisis?
We’re in new and unprecedented times. Bombarded with stories of a mystery virus leaving a trail of destruction throughout the world and ending up in our communities. We’re panicked, our shelves are empty, our stomping grounds are getting smaller and our relationships are being tested. How are we expected to process what’s going on, let alone thrive through it?
Mother’s Day – supporting working mothers in the workplace and at home
Working mothers are present in every workplace across the UK balancing their work with their share of child care duties. But Covid-19 is putting extra strain on working mothers across Wales as they navigate home schooling, working from home, or a key worker job whilst still feeling the emotional burden of their share of caring for loved ones.
3 reasons why you should work your proper hours
Friday 28 February is the TUC’s 16th annual Work Your Proper Hours Day. On this day we raise awareness of the billions of pounds worth of unpaid overtime worked in the UK every year.
6 tips for negotiating with your employer/management team
Negotiating with management can be a scary prospect. Asking for ‘more’ or ‘better’ is a vital part of trade union activity but it often makes people feel awkward or as if they are making trouble. On top of that, management generally have more power – including the power to say ‘no’ to your demands – and are often experienced negotiators.
How will Wales keep up with the EU after Brexit?
How will Wales keep pace with the EU on labour standards after Brexit? And are we aiming high enough?
Tackling the far right - a view from Wales
Tackling the far right is an issue for all of us who care about freedom, equality and community over division. It's an issue for all us in the trade union movement.
Next steps for Social Partnership in Wales
The Welsh Government is legislating to strengthen social partnership and to create a platform to deliver fair work in Wales.
Six steps to better mental health at work
Blue Monday may be a marketing ploy, but the start of a new year can be a hard time for many workers.
Workers are on the front line of the climate crisis. Here's what unions are doing about it.
The Wales TUC will be working with the Welsh Government to ensure that workers’ voices are central to the transition to a net-zero economy. The move to a net-zero Wales can mean exciting opportunities. But there must be clear and funded pathways with training and support for the transition across to new jobs.
What has austerity meant for Wales?
Austerity is mentioned all the time in election coverage, but what’s been the impact on Wales?
The use of zero-hours contracts in Wales is out of control. It's time to ban them.
The number of zero-hours contracts in Wales is higher than ever and jumped 35% in the last year alone. It's time for a ban.
Pay, Work and Poverty in Wales: The facts that all Welsh voters need to know
Ahead of polling day on 12 December, we’ve pulled together some of the key facts and figures about work, pay and poverty in Wales. This is stuff that all voters should know.
20 Years, 20 Stories - Two decades of changing lives
At the Wales TUC we’ve been celebrating 20 years of the Wales Union Learning Fund (WULF). WULF supports learning initiatives in unionised workplaces across Wales, giving tens of thousands of workers the chance to take part in over 200 learning projects.
A typical union member?
A recent study reveals some surprising - and some less surprising - insights into union membership in Wales.
The value of trade unions in Wales
A new study looks at the health and impact of the trade union movement in Wales.
Fair Work: a voice for care workers
Most of us agree that social care needs more funding, but would this necessarily make social care work fairer?
Supporting autistic workers in Wales
Autistic workers in Wales face daily discrimination. The shift to autism-friendly workplaces is long overdue – and it’s one that unions should be leading.
Digital jobs in a digital age?
Will robots take our jobs? Not necessarily, according to a Welsh Government review that was published today.
