Complaints Procedure "Your union delegate should be approached when you cannot get your problem or grievance sorted out with management"

How the Union Operates and Complaints Members who need assistance need to understand how the union operates. Firstly the expectation is that members seek where possible to address their own problems. If, for example you are underpaid you need to confront the boss. We understand in some circumstances a member cannot confront the employer as an individual because of victimisation. If you fear victimisation you can request that your complaint be treated confidentially.

Make sure all your workmates are members of the union and you elect union delegates. Employers are more receptive when they know members are organised and have elected delegates. This will better ensure the boss pays attention.Your union delegate should be approached when you cannot get your problem or grievance sorted out with management. If your delegate cannot resolve the issue he/she should, after consultation with you, approach the relevant union organiser for advice and/or assistance. If you are not satisfied with the performance of a site delegate after you have endeavoured to resolve the issue you can raise the issue with your union organiser. Each union organiser has a designated geographical area and duties. You cannot just approach any organiser - it must be the organiser allocated to your site or workplace. If you have a genuine complaint about the performance of your organiser after you have preferably discussed the issues with him/her you should contact the relevant Executive Officer of the organiser in question. Your aim should not be to undermine your delegate or organiser by a complaint but you have this right. Sometimes a member can have an unrealistic expectation or simply not understand the complexity of a problem. Each organiser has an Executive Officer allocated to support and supervise that official. The Secretary of the union, subject to direction of the Committee of Management co-ordinates the work of the Executive Officers and other office based specialist officers . If you have a problem after seeking the support of your organiser, you should contact the appropriate Executive Officer above. If the issue remains unresolved, you should then contact the Secretary and/or write a letter to the Committee of Management of the union. Whilst members have rights they also have responsibilities; • You need to be financial in the union. • You need to actively assist in the resolution of your problem ie. attending meetings etc. • You need to always assist the union when other members are in need of support.