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Stewart Fraser (New College Swindon)

29 January 2021

Election address

We are all in this together. Why does it feel that this statement couldn't be further from the truth?

We are told that we face unprecedented times.  Why in these times does it feel that some of us are in it just a little bit more than others? The AoC has recommended another derisory pay offer, increasing the gap between salaries of FE staff and school teachers, a gap which our Principals and CEO's don't see. College staff face increasing workloads trying to manage the expectations of young people let down by an outdated education system.  New ways of working are introduced, which we are expected to adapt to and implement. Contracts are whittled away and place many in precarious situations. These are 'unprecedented times' after all.

We, as members are our biggest voice and as activists, we have the collective voice to challenge the reasons why some of us are in this more than others. Listening to members concerns bring us together and provides a platform from which we can ask, why these issues are continually allowed to chip away at those who work in the FE sector.

Starting work as a Sport Lecturer at New College, Swindon 23 years ago this wasn't the situation that I expected to be facing in 2020. During this time it was NATFHE and now UCU that have been a voice for those of us who are fighting for better and fighting to rebuild FE. That voice is always stronger when we are all in it together.

Working on the behalf of the branch members has been immensely rewarding. As branch officers we have worked hard to build our membership and demonstrate that by working together change is possible.  Our branch was one of the super six FE branches that took action in the FE fights back campaign in 2018.

Taking action and working together, made our employer take notice and we won important victories for those at the bottom, middle and top of the pay scales.

My involvement in meetings in the extended South West region has allowed me to listen to the views of a wide range of branches who face diverse issues and develop an understanding of these issues that they face.  It is important these voices are heard at national level.

We are all in this together. Listening to members, including members in our decision making and encouraging members to become active can lead to the change that is crucial to improving the conditions that we face in the sector.

I also endorse Alison Chapman of City College Plymouth who is an experienced, strong voice for regional members.

Last updated: 28 January 2021