Responding to shared services and privatisation‏

UNISON local government conference heard that shared services and privatisation are increasingly likely to become a widespread response from councils facing budget cuts during the Con-Dem "age of austerity."

The consequences of such proposals are cuts to members terms and conditions along with an inevitable reduction in service quality as corporate vultures look to maximise profits at the expense of the workers and our communities.

Whilst this is without doubt a worrying threat for UNISON, conference heard speeches that referred to successful campaigns against privatisation. It shows we can win these fights if we get organised; liaise with other branches affected by proposals; speak to and mobilise our members; and engage specialist technical advice to unpick the proposals.

This was a timely and valuable debate that branches need to take to heart to make sure they are ready to respond.