Lifelong Learning
REPORT 2005
Creating Opportunities
Creating opportunities to gain new skills and knowledge is
one of the best ways that UNISON can help members secure greater
employment, personal and social opportunities for themselves
and their families.
Tony Blair has been quoted as saying that "Education is
the best economic Policy we have".
Surveys have told us that 95% of people surveyed think that
learning about new things boosts your confidence, and 93% believe
it is never too late to learn. Learning is not just about economic
success however; it is the key to achieving our full potential.
Human beings are uniquely adapted to learn and have the ability
to do so throughout their lives. A learning population is healthier,
more tolerant, independent and fulfilled.
The ability to read, write and communicate effectively, to
express ideas and opinions, to make decisions and solve problems,
as workers, family members and citizens and Lifelong Learners
is an opportunity that should be available to everyone.
It is estimated that around 800,000 adults in Scotland have
low literacy and numeracy skills, and approximately 500,000
of those are in work!!!
Employers need staff who can communicate effectively with clients/colleagues/other
professionals. Staff that can read and understand information,
complete paperwork confidently and accurately and also take
on new responsibilities and training. Staff should be supported
and encouraged to develop.
UNISON is part of a Joint Initiative with the Health and Social
Care Department/Children and Families Department (formerly the
Social Work Department) and also the Workers Educational Association
(WEA) Promoting courses that are available to staff, through
workplace learning partnerships.
Workers on low pay understand better than most the value of
learning as a route to better pay. I have been delighted with
the response from front line Home Care staff taking up the opportunity
to get on the skills escalator and engage in courses that are
available, namely: -
1. Starting Points
2. Return to Learn
3. Improve your Study skills
I will continue to raise awareness of what is available for
all staff, and I will actively try to recruit as many Union
Learning Reps (ULR) as possible to assist in this very exciting
and challenging year ahead.
ULR's are the Champions of Learning in the workplace.
If you are interested in any of the above courses, or would
like more information on how you can become a ULR please contact
me on:
0131 220 5655 or learning@unison.edinburgh.gov.uk
Dot Paterson
Lifelong Learning Convenor
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