I’m ever so pleased to report that UNISON North West has met its 2014 recruitment target of 25,000 new members.  This is an incredible achievement.  Despite the job losses and fragmentation of public services caused by the austerity agenda, our union in the region has grown again this year.  In workplaces across the North West, stewards and activists have played an essential role in this success.  It’s a great effort.

We need to keep up the momentum in what promises to be a challenging 2015.  An important event that will help us in our work is our first ever Organising Convention on Saturday 7 March in Manchester.  The Convention is a chance for activists across the region to get together and build the confidence and skills we need.  There will be guest speakers with a wealth of organising experience from home and abroad.  We’ll have useful tips, discussions and workshops to equip us for the tasks ahead.  You’ll have a chance to book your place at this exciting event early in the New Year – so look out for more information in January.

I’m very proud of the performance of our region in recruitment and organising. 

I’d like to wish everybody a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.