UNISON's membership is made up of individuals from all walks of life and all parts of the world. Every one of them is entitled to be treated with fairness, dignity, and respect.

Challenging discrimination and winning equality is at the heart of UNISON's policies. Because we recognise that equality is an inseparable part of all trade union issues, we actively campaign for equality in the workplace and in the wider world.

As the UK's major public sector trade union, UNISON also recognises its responsibility to harness the skills and knowledge of its membership. This is achieved by giving voice to public service workers on how public services are best provided and promoting equality in their delivery.

UNISON is proud of its record in winning equality, but we are not complacent. We will continue to promote equality and campaign to eliminate discrimination wherever we encounter it.

Latest equality updates

Equality representatives handbook

(08/7/10) Handbook for newly elected equality reps and active members who want to get more involved with equality issues in the workplace.

Equality duties protocol

(14/6/10) Public sector employers have obligations under the existing race, disability and gender duties. UNISON argues that all employers should equality impact assess any proposals especially in terms of restructuring, redundancies or cuts.

Employment tribunal backs UNISON in equal pay case

Birmingham Employment Tribunal has today backed UNISON�s claim that thousands of women working for Birmingham City Council are entitled to earn the same pay as men working as gardeners, refuse collectors and grave diggers.

UNISON welcomes final agreement on Equality Bill

(7/04/2010) After years of discussion and almost 12 months of Parliamentary debate, the Government’s flagship Equality Bill is now ready to receive Royal Assent and pass into law. Liane Venner, Head of UNISON’s Membership Participation Unit said: ‘We are delighted that at the very end of this Parliament, the Equality Bill has finally completed its passage into law. UNISON campaigned for some elements to be stronger, particularly on equal pay, but this does represent a significant step forwards for equality.’

Is fairness at work important to you?

If so, you might be interested in finding out more about becoming a UNISON new equality representative role.

Film clip - is fairness at work important to you?

(15/03/10) Short animated film on how UNISON equality reps make the workplace better for all. Equality reps are trained to recognise discrimination and help members get the support of their union if things go wrong for them at work. http://www.unison.org.uk/video/video.asp?did=10858