Lifelong Learning Opportunities For Council Staff
The Highland Council has been commended for being the first local council in Scotland to sign an agreement with non-teaching trade unions to offer staff lifelong learning opportunities in the workplace.
The agreement encourages employees to sign up for courses which can help develop their skills and knowledge and thereby improve the way council services are delivered to the public.
The partnership includes the appointment of trade union learning representatives, whose role is to provide an approachable contact in the workplace and advise and support people in identifying appropriate learning opportunities both within and outside the Council.
Councillor Carolyn Wilson, Chairman of the Council’s Resources Committee, who signed the agreement on behalf of the Council, said: “We fully support what is a very worthwhile initiative. The Council is committed to developing the potential of all our staff.”
Liz Mackay, UNISON’s Highland branch secretary, said “The Government are placing a great emphasis on learning in the workplace. This agreement marks a significant opportunity for everyone who works for the Council. Whether they sit at a computer, keep the environment clean and tidy or care for older people, children or vulnerable citizens, employees have the chance to learn new skills and be supported by their employer.”
Walton Pantland, learning organiser with UNITE – Amicus – said: “We welcome this opportunity to work with The Highland Council to bring new learning opportunities to council workers across the Highlands. By working in partnership, we will be able to make the best use of our combined resources to reach as many people as possible.”
Pat Egan, lifelong learning project co-ordinator with Unite – TGWU – said: “The Highland Council is to be commended for being the first local authority in Scotland to sign up to a partnership with the trade unions for lifelong learning. We are confident this will enhance development of all council employees, bring benefits to Highland communities.”