Jeremy Corbyn MP Leader of the Labour Party gave an opening speech covering unions, Europe, removal of the trade union bill if labour gain power, and that he is proud to be a UNISON member always.
Debates and discussions were then held around Gateway to the Future: stable and sustainable branch resources.
There was a presentation for young members organising awards and branch organising awards.
Other discussussions on motions this morning covered an organising response to the Trade Union Bill, Organising for the growth in the community and voluntary sector, Fairer taxation and the future funding of our public services, Austerity – how much worse will it get for Black members? And finally The Housing Crisis.
There was also a conference photo taken for #moreincommon – Far More Unites us Than Devides us.
The conference started continuing discussions about the debate on poverty. And then moved onto a debate on the motion surrounding attacks on democracy. Then a speech from Dave Prentis, General Secretary of UNISON. Dave made a tribute to Jo Cox and the mass murder in Orlando, he also made a special mention to the School Support Staff on strike in Derby and Durham. Then debates took place on the motions for Living Standards, pay justice and the living wage, and Funding for National Minimum Wage.
Wendy Nichols – UNISON President delivered a opening address and welcomed everyone to the National Delegate Conference. Wendy then payed tribute to members who have sadly passed away over the last year and a moment of silence was held with special mention of MP Jo Cox.