August 18, 2021
In this special episode, Simon chats to James about why the UK Supreme Court ruling wasn't the last word on Uber drivers' employment rights, why the company's operating model breeds poverty and pollution, how to organise in a world of algorithms and "robo-firings" and ADCU's common cause with sister union GMB. UnionDues is part of the Labor Radio Podcast Network. A Makes-You-Think production. Music by Scott Holmes. Companion blog (for links, signposting, background) here.
July 28, 2021
In this special episode, Simon explores the legacy of the 1888 Matchgirls' strike on union organising, safe working, collective voice and women's emancipation and finds a "golden thread" linking then to now. The Feathers and Pennnies collection of Matchgirls-inspired poems and prose is available here. Companion blog here. Music by Scott Holmes and The Pete Dunhill Choir. A Makes-You-Think production.
June 22, 2021
Simon chats with Arbitration and Conciliation Service Chair Clare Chapman about fairness, fire-and-rehire and the future of work. Mel Simms wonders if hard hit hospitality workers can look forward to better times, in her #thought4theweek, and Josiah Mortimer brings us up-to-date with his #RadicalRoundUp. Companion blog at bit.ly/UDs4e5blog. Music by Scott Holmes. A Makes-You-Think production
June 15, 2021
In this special episode, Simon chats with GMB National Organiser Martin Smith on his union's ground-breaking deal with Uber.
A candid conversation about the opportunities and challenges of organising in a company known for its hostility to unions puts the deal in economic and historical context - and nothing is off-limits.
A Makes-You-Think production. music by Scott Holmes. Companion blog here
June 8, 2021
Featuring CSP Head of Data Jenny Andrew and Director of CSI (you'll have to listen to know what that stands for) Jon Mawby. Plus Mel Simms #thought4theweek on why Sustainable Development Goals matter to unions, Sam Johnson on the campaign to recognise the 1888 Matchgirls' strike, plus Josiah Mortimer and David Kerr with the #RadicalRoundUp.
Companion blog at bit.ly/UDs4e4blog
Music by Scott Holmes. A Makes You Think production
May 25, 2021
In this episode, Mel Simms reports from the front line of community activism on the links with trade unionism in #thought4theweek
Simon chats with Alex Wilson and Jane Jones, two USDAW reps on the challenges shopworkers have faced during Covid and the union's success in recruiting and organising so many young workers.
And Josiah Mortimer's #RadicalRoundUp has bad news on jobs but an important win from the North West.
Companion blog here
![Why unions need supply chain strategies - w/John Earls]()
April 27, 2021
UnionDues is back for our fourth series.
Simon chats with Unite Director of Research John Earls about the necessity of a trade union approach to trade. You only need to recall the impact of the EverGiven getting stranded in the Suez Canal to recognise its importance.
Unite’s strategy builds on the knowledge of its network of local representatives allied with checklists of what needs to be done to ensure the vice and well-being of workers is embedded in international supply chains.
Also:
Prof Melanie Simms looks at why the blame game between older and younger workers is a fundamental and damaging misunderstanding of issues that affect both groups. That’s in #Thought4TheWeek.
Josiah Mortimer’s #RadicalRoundUp looks at industrial action at Liverpool University, employment rights for Addison Lee drivers, concerns over a new government Fire advisor, plus a ramping up of the campaign against the public and sector pay freeze.
Plus arrangements for the important, poignant, annual Workers’ Memorial Day
Companion blog available at /bit.ly/UDsupplychains. Part of the Labor Radio Podcast Network. Music by Scott Holmes. A Makes You Think production.
