UNISON National Delegate Conference 2026 – Branch Representation
From 15–19 June 2026, two of our branch members attended the UNISON National Delegate Conference (NDC) in Brighton. This important annual event brings together members from across the UK and a wide range of sectors to debate and determine UNISON’s national priorities.
NDC is a vital democratic space where members help shape the direction of the union and ensure the voices of workers are represented at a national level.
A Vision for a Stronger Union
This year’s conference set out a bold vision for the future of UNISON under our new General Secretary—focused on building a stronger, more organised union that delivers for members:
- ✊ Defending equality and migrants’ rights
- 💪 Building workplace power through organising
- 🏛️ Holding politicians to account
- 🌍 Standing in global solidarity
Together, these priorities aim to strengthen the union and create real change for working people.
Key Highlights from Conference
Climate Emergency and Green Action
Conference heard that climate change is a national emergency, with urgent action needed to tackle the crisis. Delegates recognised the barriers workers face in achieving meaningful change and called for:
- Stronger national action
- Protection of jobs through a just transition
- Investment in sustainable public services
With 2026 declared UNISON’s Year of Green Activity, the message was clear—change can’t wait.
Watch Tom Heap’s speech below
▶ Watch video
Learn more about Year of Green Activity
Guest Speaker – Angela Rayner MP
On the opening day, delegates heard from Angela Rayner MP, who spoke about the importance of her trade union roots and the role unions play in tackling inequality. She highlighted the need to:
- Improve job quality
- Strengthen workers’ voices
- Address inequality through collective action
Equality and Workers’ Rights
A strong focus throughout conference was on equality and protecting workers’ rights. Key debates included:
- Increasing participation of low-paid women in UNISON
- Supporting migrant workers and opposing anti-migrant policies
- Defending trans rights
- Delivering the Employment Rights Act for all
- Closing pay gaps across UK employment
- Supporting international solidarity campaigns
United we are stronger
Employment Rights Act for all
Pay gaps are not accidents
Hands Off Cuba
Organising to Win
Conference highlighted the importance of the “Organising to Win” strategy, focused on strengthening workplace organising and empowering members to build collective power.
Wellbeing and Looking Ahead
Delegates also discussed wellbeing and future priorities, including:
- Targeted support for men’s mental health
- Recognising that the majority of UNISON members are women
- Announcing 2027 as the Year of Women Workers
A million women’s voices
Men are struggling
Looking Ahead
Attending the National Delegate Conference ensures our branch remains connected to UNISON’s national direction while continuing to represent our members locally.
We remain committed to building a stronger, more inclusive union—one that delivers real results for working people.