Sandra Robinson stands down as Branch Chair

I am writing with my final farewell to you all as I now have confirmed my last day employed by Barnardo's as 31^st October.  It's been a bit like Christmas you know

it is coming but then it seems to happen ahead of schedule.

Can I thank you all for your good wishes and thank all the stewards and officers for their hard work for the branch and for your support for me at Branch Chair.  I had a wonderful leaving do with the Executive Committee which included a gorgeous present and drinks.  I got to bed fairly late but was up for day two of the meeting and passed myself off as fairly rational.  It was a great evening and thanks to you all who shared in it.

The last four years has seen a phenomenal rise in branch membership and activity. We have gone from 900 to over 1300 members and from 15 to 31 stewards. Our influence within Barnardo's and UNISON has also risen with involvement in many reports on employment practise in the third sector ( the now legendary Martini Contracts) and continued success in dealing with employment issues for our members.

The good news is that we have agreed a new Branch Chair who many of you will already know.  At the Branch Executive Committee on 15^th September a new interim Branch Chairperson was elected to take over.  This is Vince Barton who is a CSM at High Close School, Wokingham, and LEASE.  Vince has worked for Barnardo's for over 17 years and brings a wealth of experience of the organisation with him. 

I think there are many more exciting days for Barnardos UNISON ahead!!

With the Best of Wishes,

Sandra Robinson

Branch Chairperson

Barnardo's UNISON