Training Community Representatives in Glasgow

Community Union’s Glasgow office welcomed Community representatives from across Scotland this week for an engaging and informative learning session, focused on strengthening their knowledge, skills and confidence in the workplace.

A huge thank you goes to Paul Parker, Employment Relations Specialist at The AA, and Paul Thomas, National NEC Member for LGBT+, for leading the session. Their knowledge, practical experience and interactive approach created a supportive learning environment that encouraged discussion, challenged thinking and gave delegates valuable insight into employment relations and employment tribunal processes.

A photograph of Paul Thomas, Paul Parker and Tiffany Gillies at the rep training session in Glasgow.

Tiffany Gillies, Assistant Director of Operations at Community said:

“It was fantastic to see such a positive and engaging training session today. By working collaboratively with the employer, we’re able to provide our representatives with enhanced support, helping them build the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to represent members effectively. Strong partnerships like this are key to developing capable, well-supported workplace representatives who can make a real difference.”

The training showcased the value of partnership working between employers and trade unions, demonstrating how collaborative learning can strengthen workplace representation and improve support for members.

Joining the session was Susan Cassidy, Union Learning Organiser for Scotland, who participated throughout the day. The programme covered a wide range of topics, including The AA’s drug and alcohol testing procedures, the employment tribunal process and claims, and the growing role of artificial intelligence and how it can be used responsibly to support union representatives in their day-to-day roles.

Susan reflected on the day’s learning, saying:

“Training like this is an important step forward in building stronger relationships between employers and employees. I believe today’s session brings us closer to working collaboratively with businesses on developing digital skills and embracing new ways of supporting our members.”

Delegates made excellent progress throughout the learning pathways, actively engaging in discussions while developing their knowledge, practical skills and confidence. A key focus of the session was the new employment legislation introduced on 6 April 2026, giving representatives a clear understanding of the legal changes and the practical implications for workplaces and members alike.

Paul Parker, Mark McGinle, Ryan Mack, Susan Cassidy, George Milligan and Dave Birrell learning more about being a Community representative.

These discussions provided delegates with another valuable tool in their representative toolkit, ensuring they are well equipped to navigate increasingly complex workplace issues and provide informed, confident support to members.

Reflecting on the session, Paul Thomas said:

“Delegates particularly valued the behind-the-scenes insight into Employment Tribunal hearings, gaining a greater understanding of how the process works in practice and the level of preparation, evidence and scrutiny involved. Seeing the process from this perspective brought the learning to life and reinforced the vital role workplace representatives play in supporting members through complex workplace issues.”

Training opportunities like these demonstrate Community Union’s ongoing commitment to investing in its representatives, ensuring they have access to high-quality learning, expert knowledge and practical experience. By working in partnership and sharing expertise, we continue to build a confident, capable network of representatives who are ready to support members, respond to change and champion fairness in every workplace.