Mutual Benefit

#uNDC11 An attempt to substitute a slogan for a comprehensive union approach to public service reform was overwhelmingly rejected by Conference following NEC opposition to amendment 39.1.

Josie Bird (NEC) and Angie Bowen (Stockport) both reaffirmed UNISON’s policy against the imposition of mutual models but supported the West Midlands region’s proposal for a 12 month review to ensure branches are equipped and resourced to respond to the new wave of so called social enterprise being promoted by the Con Dem Government.

Much work has already been done by the union on this subject, with the TUC Touchstone blog reporting on a new UNISON publication ‘Mutual Benefit’ examining the issues of mutuals, co-operatives and social enterprises running public services launched at Conference this week: http://www.touchstoneblog.org.uk/2011/06/promoting-an-alternative-vision-of-public-service-reform/

The full report can be downloaded here:
http://www.unison.org.uk/acrobat/19946.pdf