In early 2023 we will be rolling out a range of measures to better support SoR Reps in the workplace. The moves follow a series of reviews into our processes and how we support Reps.
The developments are aligned with our strategic aims of building upon the existing strengths of our fantastic Rep networks; involving and engaging members and Reps as much as possible in both presenting and developing our policies; and making everything we do as accountable, accessible and sustainable as possible.
Things to look out for...
Increased activity and support across our various Networks
Early in 2023, we will be using Equalise and all of our Regional, National and Group Networks (eg Students, New Professionals, Managers, etc) to consult on an SoR manifesto, capturing our key policy priorities and demands from politicians in the run-up to the next General Election.
We will be consulting widely with NHS members about our approach to the 2023-24 pay round. This could include consulting members again over industrial action if progress towards an above-inflation pay award is not forthcoming.
We will also be consulting with members in the private sector about increasing support, building towards launching a Private Sector and Agency Members Network later in 2023.
Safer representation and accountability
The SoR benefit from flexible local structures that mean if a member wants to volunteer we can find you a role. The best possible representation occurs when we have Reps in every department. If you are interested in putting yourself forward for a representative position, speak to your regional or national officer. Reps are continually coached and supported to represent our members. There are also positions on regional and national councils that could be of interest.
Following a review, we are strengthening support in place for our Representatives. We are introducing a package of measures, already approved by UK Council to strengthen Rep accountability when carrying out roles in the SoR’s name. These include:
- a clearer, SoR-wide, complaints procedure, explicitly linked to SoR values
- a Reps Code of Conduct setting out what members and Reps can expect
- a Member Representation Agreement, so members and Reps know what they can expect from each other during direct representations.
We are also making our election processes more consistent, transparent and accountable. How we do this is still being finalised and is not expected to be ready until towards the end of January 2023. In the meantime, anyone wanting to become a Rep needs only to contact their Regional or National Officer for guidance until the new process is ready.
There will be a series of Rep and Member briefings in all areas to more fully explain these processes as soon as they are finalised so look out for these early in the New Year.
Improved communication and information
We will be consulting Reps in early 2023 on how we can improve and better target communications so they have the information needed, when and where they need it, in the format they can access most quickly and efficiently. This includes considering re-launching an online Reps Newsletter or e-bulletin.
Local Reps will also be asked to contribute motions to our ADC, which is set to run from 23-25 April.
We will be launching our new Representative Development Modules periodically throughout 2023 (and into 2024) to supplement our excellent and ever-evolving New Reps training programmes.
Later in 2023 we will also be launching our first Representative Summits. These are face-to-face events for Reps to receive vital updates, training and to network. Currently these are being planned around our Radiographer Awards, where we celebrate both the Radiographer and Representative of the Year.
2023 promises to be another busy and very important year.
Dean Rogers MCIPD
Executive Director, Industrial Strategy & Member Relations
Image: Caiaimage/Martin Barraud/iStock/Getty Images Plus
