It was a privilege to attend this year’s UNISON National Delegate Conference (NDC) in Brighton last week – a few packed days of debate, policy, and connecting with colleagues from across the union.
One of the most inspiring moments of conference came from UNISON’s new General Secretary, Andrea Egan, delivering her first NDC speech in the role. She struck an energising tone, setting out a bold vision for the union’s future—focused on building strength, organising effectively, and becoming a more powerful force for working people.
Her message was clear: UNISON has a “massive opportunity” to transform itself into a more assertive and influential union, capable of winning for members and shaping wider society.
The speech landed strongly with delegates, combining ambition with a call to collective action and solidarity.
👉 UNISON: A Massive opportunity for change
Another important moment was hearing from Angela Rayner. Whatever your political perspective, her personal story remains powerful. She spoke not just as a senior political figure, but as someone whose journey began in the trade union movement – starting out as a UNISON steward while working as a care worker, after becoming a young single mother and leaving school with few qualifications.
Her experience is a reminder of how trade unions can empower people from all backgrounds to find their voice and challenge inequality.
👉 Angela Rayner: Born Stockport, Raised in UNISON
Conference also highlighted UNISON’s Year of Green Activity. Delegates were shown a video message from broadcaster and environmental campaigner Chris Packham, emphasising the urgency of the climate and biodiversity crisis and the importance of collective action. His contribution reinforced that environmental justice and workers’ rights are closely linked.
👉 Chris Packham supporting UNISON’s Year of Green Activity
Disappointingly, the scale of the conference agenda meant that not everything could be debated. Of particular relevance to our sector was a motion submitted by Brighton University on the state of Higher Education funding, which did not reach the conference floor due to time constraints. Instead, it will now progress through UNISON’s processes to be actioned. Given the seriousness of the funding situation facing universities, this was a missed opportunity for debate—our sector must try to get this debated next year.
As ever, NDC was not just about the formal sessions. Conversations in corridors, fringe meetings and informal gatherings were equally valuable—providing opportunities to share experiences, build networks and strengthen solidarity across branches.
Brighton 2026 showed UNISON at its best: democratic, member-led, and actively engaging with both the immediate challenges facing workers and the wider issues shaping our future. If you’re interested in becoming more active in UNISON, reach out to one of your local stewards and we’d be delighted to chat with you about the opportunities available.
Colin Jones
UNISON RGU Convener / Branch Treasurer