“Lunch and Learn” organiser wins Learning Initiative Award at regional ceremony

Shawn Fleming accepting an award from Debi Potter at UNISON's Get Active Awards Ceremony 2019

Shawn Fleming, Concorde Health UNISON Branch Secretary, won the Learning Initiative Award at this year’s Get Active awards ceremony in Taunton.

Shawn has shown how important education is in empowering colleagues to deal with the threats they face from privatisation in the workplace.

Following an announcement that his employer, North Bristol NHS Trust, was considering privatisation at Southmead Hospital Shawn organised four “Lunch and Learn” sessions for his fellow employees.

The sessions were attended by over 200 hospital staff during their lunch breaks where UNISON delivered training on rights at work, progressing in learning, health and well-being and the NHS Birthday.

The sessions proved so popular that Shawn sought further funding to enable him to organise a learning weekend at UNISON’s Croyde Bay Resort for domestic staff employed at Southmead Hospital. The weekend included half day workshops on Maths, English and IT skills.

This positive work has led to a discussion with his employer about introducing a learning partnership and full programme for UNISON members within the Trust.

UNISON regional organiser, Christina Cook said: 

“By doing the organisational work to let people know about events and speaking with management to facilitate paid time off to allow members to attend Shawn has created a culture of learning.

“The effort he has put in has encouraged members to have the confidence to access learning and get involved.

“I’m delighted that after his hard work and determination UNISON have recognised his efforts with a regional award, congratulations Shawn.”

Read about all the Get Active award winners here