Your UNISON Branch
City and County of Swansea Branch serves Swansea and the surrounding areas. There are currently 24 Community and Town Councils in Swansea. See the latest 2025 Campaigns, Members Help and Support Schemes and Annual Events.
A Swansea Welcome
Welcome To UNISON Swansea Branch. Here you can find information on membership and joining UNISON ….. joining fees ….. what we do ….. getting help and support ….. campaigns ….. and all the latest news.
Campaigns 2025
Campaigns 2026
International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day (IWD), celebrated annually on March 8, is a global day recognizing the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women while calling for accelerated action to advance gender equality. It serves as a unified, powerful platform to challenge discrimination, raise awareness for women’s rights. #InternationalWomensDay #WomensDay More information click here
Climate Change And Women
Climate Change and Women – 10th March, 12.30-13.30pm – Climate change is not gender-neutral. Around the world, and here in the UK, women are disproportionately affected by its impacts – whether through increased economic insecurity, health risks, or the burden of care during environmental crisis. This webinar will explore how climate change intersects with gender inequality and what can be done to create fairer, more resilient communities. Join us for an insightful discussion with expert speakers as we examine the challenges and opportunities for action. To book a place click here
Saint David’s Day
UNISON, the UK’s largest trade union, actively celebrates St David’s Day (Dydd Gŵyl Dewi) on March 1st, marking the national day of Wales and the patron saint. We thank all our members for the celebration messages promoting Welsh culture, language, and community.
Employment Rights Act Preparations
Maggi Ferncombe, UNISON’s assistant general secretary for regions & governance, talks through what activists and branches need to do – starting now More information click here
Employment Rights Act Boost
The latest raft of changes to workers’ rights that have been created by the new Employment Rights Act (ERA) become active this week. Passed in December last year, the ERA was the culmination of years of campaigning and negotiation by UNISON, which hailed the legislation as a ‘gamechanger’ for workers in Britain, both as individuals and collectively. Given its size and scope, the act is being implemented in stages, over the next two years. With Royal Assent came one immediate reform – the repeal of the controversial Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Act 2023, which allowed employers in key public services to force specific people to work on strike days.More information click here
Health And Climate Action
February is UNISON’s national health team highlight month in the Year of Green Activity. Come along to this webinar to explore the link between health and climate action, by looking at case studies of health worker led and local green projects as well as the effect of climate change on our members and their work, the climate adaptability responsibility of health services to ensure health members as workers can continue to deliver essential healthcare services and ensure patient safety. Registration click here
Women’s Conference
‘We carry twice the load and get half the recognition’. UNISON president says that ‘for all the progress women have fought for and won, the reality remains that women across public services… are still paid less than men’. UNISON national women’s conference opened with a speech from president Catherine McKenna. More information link click here
Unions At The Heart
Of Work
Heart Unions week is about what unions mean for workers today. At work, people face pressure on pay, workloads and conditions, with decisions often made without workers’ voices being heard. On your own, it can feel hard to challenge that. A trade union brings workers together so they can support each other, raise concerns collectively and negotiate for better pay, safer workplaces and fair treatment.Unions work because they are made up of ordinary workers choosing to stand together and take action when something needs to change. If you want a stronger voice at work, joining a union is the first step. Find your union and join today: #CaruUndebau #HeartUnions More Information link click here
Ramadan Begins
Supporting Muslim staff during Ramadan. As Ramadan begins, thoughtful workplace adjustments and open conversations can help Muslim employees balance faith, wellbeing and work. More information click here
Campaigns 2026
LGBT+ Month
LGBT+ History Month, observed in February each year, is a chance to end invisibility and celebrate the lives and achievements of the diverse LGBT+ community. UNISON looks back on our own LGBT+ history to see how far we have come, remind us of what we have achieved and recommit to the campaigns ahead. More information click here
New General Secretary
Andrea Egan begins her five-year term as UNISON general secretary. ‘We will put faith in members’ decisions and stand up to any employer, politician or cabinet minister who acts against our interests’ ’We can be an incredible force for change’ – UNISON general secretary Andrea Egan. More information click here
Senedd Elections
With the crucial Senedd Election on 7 May approaching, UNISON Cymru is working on lots of ways that you can get active in the campaign through your union. I would also like to invite you to join us for a pilot of the “Use your vote in Wales” citizenship webinar on Friday 6 February, 12.00-13.00. We look forward to seeing you there. More information click here
2026 Year Of Green Activity
UNISON and many of our members are already active on climate change. Read on to find out what we are doing and how you can join us during this special highlight Year of Green Activity – there is a whole calendar of activity to get involved in. Full article link click here
Employers Rights Bill
Parliament passes the Employment Rights Bill . UNISON is celebrating the passing of the Employment Rights Bill by Parliament – heralding what the union believes will be a bright new era for workers’ rights in Britain. More information link click here
Ukraine Fourth Year
‘The part of our work – and truly of my life – which is connected with war is never ending’. On the 4th anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, trade unionist Ivanna Khrapko talks about the physical and psychological toll of life in a warzone, and how the role of unions in her country is more important than ever More information click here
Campaigns 2026
CHECK YOUR RATE OF PAY
UNISON campaigning for a living wage. This sets a clear benchmark for the rate of pay needed to keep workers out of poverty.
“Low-paid staff working for fair employers are the ones who’ll see the benefits of this rise. But for most workers in public services, it’s the government’s responsibility to make sure they’re on a decent rate.
UNISON useful links to save members money
As well as the links below you can visit UNISON latest benefits page.
Full information click here.
UNISON POD CAST
A new episode of the UNISON Local Government podcast is out now. Yesterday, an all-member email was sent to local government members advising them of the podcast. After evaluating series 1, we’ve changed the podcast’s name to ‘Behind the Service: a UNISON insight into Local Government’.
In this podcast, Ruth Levin and Paul Bell chat with Tony Wright and Abi Coombs from UNISON’s charity, There For You.
This episode of the UNISON Podcast covers:
– What ‘There For You’ is, and how it works
– The sheer range of support available
– Quantifying the charity’s massive impact across the year
– How UNISON members can access support and get involved with the charity
Listen now on your favourite podcast platform via the links below! Please promote the podcast within your branch and regional networks.
Listen Online click here
Listen on Spotify click here
Listen on Apple click here
Listen on Amazon click here
Help & Support
The Campaign
Cancer touches millions of lives in countless ways but it doesn’t define who we are. We are more than a disease, more than a statistic. The World Cancer Day campaign 2025-27 “United by Unique” places people at the centre of care and explores new ways of making a difference. More information click here
Winter Help
You shouldn’t have to choose between heating and eating, but UNISON Welfare is there for you. If you’re a UNISON member on a low income, you may be eligible to apply for a £200 voucher towards your food shopping. More information click link here
Support For Family And Friends
You can claim UNISON death benefit by filling in the form below and returning it to your local UNISON regional office by email or post. More information click link here
Member Support And Services
UNISON can help you in many ways, both at work and at home. If you are not sure who you should contact for help, or where to find the information that you need, this section of the website will help you find it. More information click link here
World Suicide
Prevention Day
A time to raise awareness, break stigma, and remind everyone that help is always available. In Wales, 350 people died by suspected suicide between April 2023 and March 2024, a rate of 12.4 per 100,000 people.
Cancer Awareness Calendar
If you would like to get involved in an event or seek excellent cancer advice then Cancer Research UK website provides a wealth of useful information to help you, family or friend. #Cancer #CancerAwareness #CancerResearchUK Annual events link click here
Check Your Benefits
It can often be tricky to figure out which benefits you are eligible for and how to claim. Check your support now with the UNISON Benefits Calculator. More information link click here
Help & Support
Warm Winter Discount
In England and Wales, households receiving Housing Benefit, Income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income Support, Pension Credit, or Universal Credit will qualify. #Winter #WinterBills #WinterDiscount More information link click here
Members 20% Off
20% discount on all standard rates for UNISON members – just select the member price when you book online or contact us on 01271 890890. 50% discount available to some low paid UNISON members – check whether you are eligible below Full details link here
Contact A Samaritan
If you need someone to talk to, we listen. We won’t judge or tell you what to do.
More information click link here
School Uniform Grant
The Welsh Government’s School’s Essential Grant. Eligible families can apply for a grant of £125 per child per year. Families with children entering year 7 can apply for £200 to help with increased costs associated with starting secondary school. Support video here
Check eligibility here
April Price Rises
It is being dubbed “awful April” with a range of household bills set to go up in the next few days. There are a few things that you can consider to save money. There are free household bill online calculators to work out monthly bill totals. Find out what benefits and extra help you are entitled to click here. Check eligibility here
The BBC have published an excellent support and help link here. Full article click here
Young Members Mental Health Matters
UNISON believes mental health is a trade union issue. We all have difficult times, and sometimes that’s because of work. Our leaflet for our Young Members Mental Health Matters campaign outlines how we look after our young members.
Full article link here
School Shoes Cost Support
For lots of people, the cost-of-living crisis leaves little left over after food shopping and bills have been paid. Yet many children have grown out of the school shoes that were bought for the new school year, and parents are forced to make them last the final term of the year to try and save on costs. Adults are also putting away their winter shoes as the days get longer and the weather improves. UNISON’s charity for members has a limited fund available to assist with the cost of spring footwear.
Help & Support
Join A Union
Check Your Benefits
It can often be tricky to figure out which benefits you are eligible for and how to claim. Check your support now with the UNISON benefits calculator.
UNISON Rewards
As a UNISON member you can save £££’s on discounted gift vouchers and shopping cards and get cashback from top retailers such as M&S, Very, Comet, Thorntons and more #UNISONRewards #SaveMoney Full A to Z Retailers list here
A to Z
Energy Support Appeal
There for You is proud to support thousands of members and their families every year with things such as: general living cost, household appliances, urgent repairs, disability equipment and adaptations, utility bills and funeral costs. The support fund is there to help members through this cost-of-living crisis.
Cost Of Living Survival Event
Vital knowledge to help you and your colleagues survive in these challenging times. Full details here.
Wellbeing Matters
Wellbeing breaks can provide welcome relief from stress and respite from difficult circumstances – this can include assisting with recovery from illness to help prepare for a return to work. eing breaks
Wellbeing breaks can provide welcome relief from stress and respite from difficult circumstances – this can include assisting with recovery from illness to help prepare for a return to work. If you are on a low income or in hardship and cannot afford the cost of a break, There for You may be able to help you towards the cost.
Budget Planner
Our user friendly budget planner is free to use and should only take minutes to complete if you have all your financial information to hand.
Help With Debt
There’s lots of help out there to get you back on track and it’s important to know you’re not alone. You can turn to UNISON Debtline, a free debt advice service.
UNISON MEMBERS 20% OFF NOW
That’s right, UNISON Members are entitled to 20% discount.
Only valid for direct bookings through Croyde Bay Resort at croydeunison.co.uk or 01271 890 890.
More information on the Croyde Bay holiday resort, click here
Annual Events
International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day (IWD), celebrated annually on March 8, is a global day recognizing the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women while calling for accelerated action to advance gender equality. It serves as a unified, powerful platform to challenge discrimination, raise awareness for women’s rights. #InternationalWomensDay #WomensDay More information click here
Saint David’s Day
UNISON, the UK’s largest trade union, actively celebrates St David’s Day (Dydd Gŵyl Dewi) on March 1st, marking the national day of Wales and the patron saint. We thank all our members for the celebration messages promoting Welsh culture, language, and community.
ANNUAL EVENTS ACROSS THE WORLD IN YEAR 2026
Ramadan Begins
Supporting Muslim staff during Ramadan. As Ramadan begins, thoughtful workplace adjustments and open conversations can help Muslim employees balance faith, wellbeing and work. More information click here
The Campaign
Cancer touches millions of lives in countless ways but it doesn’t define who we are. We are more than a disease, more than a statistic. The World Cancer Day campaign 2025-27 “United by Unique” places people at the centre of care and explores new ways of making a difference. More information click here
Annual Events
Annual Events
LGBT+ Month
LGBT+ History Month, observed in February each year, is a chance to end invisibility and celebrate the lives and achievements of the diverse LGBT+ community. UNISON looks back on our own LGBT+ history to see how far we have come, remind us of what we have achieved and recommit to the campaigns ahead. More information click here
Holocaust Memorial Day
Bridging generations this Holocaust Memorial Day. UNISON marks Holocaust Memorial Day on Tuesday 27 January with a reminder that the responsibility of remembrance does not end with the survivors. More information link click here
Training And Events
All Wales Online Webinars
Our WULF team and our pool of expert tutors and providers offer a range of webinars that are free and open to all Welsh public service workers. You can also request bespoke versions for your UNISON branch. Webinars information click link here
2026 Training And Events
UNISON Cymru Activist Education Programme 2026. Your employer should allow for paid time off for all of these training courses under the Employment Relations Act. More information link click here
2026 Latest Courses
Up and coming courses for this year. All UNISON Members across the UK can access exclusive courses, bursaries, financial support, special events and e-learning platforms from UNISON College. Find out what you can do today! More information link click here
Training And Events
Training Proud History
UNISON has a proud history of providing high quality learning opportunities for our members. We work with trusted national institutions like The Open University and the Workers’ Educational Association (WEA) and a host of local providers, and we also deliver informal learning in-house. Full article link here
Swansea Learning Festival
Swansea UNESCO Learning Festival 2025 – Unlocking Opportunities. Found in south Wales, Swansea Bay is a welcoming and diverse coastal destination with a passion for culture, creativity and sustainability. The Swansea Bay Area covers Gower, Mumbles, Swansea City Centre and Rural Swansea. More information link here
LEARN
TUC Education
The TUC provides training for union reps. If you’re interested in developing your skills or refreshing your knowledge, you’ll find everything you need in this section. Explore our classroom courses, online courses, webinars and eNotes. Sign up to our latest news.
For courses link here
UNISON College In Cymru / Wales
All UNISON Members across the UK can access exclusive courses, bursaries, financial support, special events and e-learning platforms from UNISON College. Find out what you can do today!
For more information and to register, please click the link here
Training And Events
UNISON e-Learning
UNISON College provides activist training and member learning opportunities for all UNISON members. More information link here
Eventbrite Training Courses
Eventbrite is a self-service platform, which means third party organizers create and manage their own events. If you have questions about an event, see if the information you need is on the event listing. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, select Contact the organizer on the event listing. If you already have a ticket, you can also contact the organizer by going to Tickets in your Eventbrite account. Eventbrite can’t answer questions about an event on the organizer’s behalf. Details link here
A-Z UNISON Learning Resources
You will find a wide range of links, both to UNISON resources and to resources created and maintained by other organisations, which may be helpful to you. These are arranged alphabetically. You can use Ctrl+F (Command+F on a Mac) or your browser’s search function to look for a specific word or phrase. UNISON activists and staff are also encouraged to visit the Organising Space, where many useful resources have been collated under the Learning and Development tile.
For more information and to register, please click the link here
A to Z
Become A Health And Safety Rep
Become A Regional Organiser
Ever thought about becoming a UNISON regional organiser?
UNISON is now recruiting and looking for a fantastic regional organiser in Wales.