NORWICH CITY UNISON

What is an AGM?

The AGM is the annual members meeting and has a number of purposes: 

• To elect officers and stewards to the branch for the coming year 
• To inform you of the branch’s activities in the past year
• To provide information on current issues – such as single status, the council budget or pay 
• To allow members to submit motions to be put to a branch vote

Why should I attend?

Firstly, there will be free food and drink! It is also an opportunity to get together with other members of the branch and say hello.

Secondly, you will be able to hear and discuss full reports on issues relevant to your branch and your employment. This year there are a number of extremely important issues that will have a large impact on the lives of council staff – single status, the council budget and implications of the current economic climate and the change to unitary status.

Thirdly, you will be able to hear and vote on motions put to the branch by members. This is your chance to have a voice on important issues and the action the branch will take.

Lastly, this is your Unison branch and the Committee Officers and Stewards represent you. This is your opportunity to elect your representatives for the coming year.

What is a motion?

Motions are simply proposals submitted by members to the Annual General Meeting. You may have a fantastic idea about improving the way the branch works, or perhaps there is an issue that is of particular concern.

For example, motions can propose changes to branch policy on matters, or instruct officers to carry out tasks, such as running a campaign on a specific issue.

The proposer will be expected to give a speech in support of the motion at the meeting. Seconders may also give speeches in support of the motion or speak from the floor.

Any member can propose or second a motion, so if there is something that matters to you, submit a motion, have it debated and wait for the outcome.