The government should stop undermining the laws that protect us.

Delegates at the UNISON North West Regional Health & Safety Seminar marked the end of a packed day in solidarity with the Hazards ‘We Love Red Tape’ Campaign calling for the government to stop undermining the laws that protect us. 

Earlier, Heather Roughley, Health & Safety Officer from UNISON Bridgewater Health Branch, shared her experience in tackling stress management in the workplace in partnership with her employer, with the approach of changing the workplace...not the worker. 

Neil Hope-Collins, Prospect NEC member and Health & Safety Executive Inspector shared his unique insight as a trade unionist and inspector.  Neil told delegates not to lose the opportunity to organise and recruit – if members are stressed then so are non-members. 

Jane Warburton from UNISON Care Workers for Change Campaign spoke on how the social care crisis affects the mental health of care workers struggling to make ends meet, and their struggle to provide dignity in care. 

Phil Liptrot from Thompsons Solicitors explained how the best way to prevent workplace assaults in the future is through successful claims that hit employers financially in the present. 

Janet Newsham from Greater Manchester Hazards Centre sent a message to the government - 'Stop killing us in the workplace - we want sound rights...not soundbites'. 

Participants’ feedback about the seminar was very positive.  Among the comments were:  

• Really enjoyed all the speakers and content, gave me a lot to think about and go back to my employer with.

• This is my first seminar as I am a new rep and I thoroughly enjoyed today.

• Very useful all round health and safety seminar. A very good quality of speaker.

• Looking forward to next year’s H&S seminar. Thank you.