NASUWT Representatives

24 www.nasuwt.org.ukPlanning is the final stage of the process. Once you have understood theproblem and have gathered the necessary information, you shouldconsider the following:l Does the case have merit?llllShould the Union be supporting it?Is it an individual matter that needs tackling with grievance or disciplinary procedures oris it a collective matter that needs taking up through campaigning or existingconsultation/negotiation machinery?Is it a case that needs the involvement of others within the Union (Health and SafetyRepresentative, Local Secretary, etc.)?Is it a problem that can be sorted out at school level or does it need tackling at the LA, oreven national, level?A good guiding principle is that problems should be sorted out at the lowest possible level.Many simple, minor day-to-day problems can be sorted out by informal discussions withmembers of the management team and, if this can be done, it benefits everybody. It is betterto be a troubleshooter where possible! If the problem is urgent, then there should be a wayof raising it immediately with the headteacher.Sometimes it will not be possible to solve problems informally. In these cases, you maydecide to embark on more formal solutions by invoking available procedures or raising theissue(s) through school level consultation/negotiation procedures.The way in which you decide to handle a problem may depend on circumstances other thanthe facts of the case. For example, if you have a large, determined NASUWT membership,you may be able to tackle problems in a way that is not possible if you have a very smallmembership or if members are not willing to give support.Remember that when you are working out your plan of action, you are acting as aRepresentative of the NASUWT. Always be aware of Union objectives and of the attitude andviews of your members at school. Never be afraid to take advice from your Local AssociationSecretary and never be afraid of passing the problem on to somebody more experienced orsenior in the Union if you feel that you may be getting out of your depth. In suchcircumstances, the preliminary work you have done and the notes you have made will beinvaluable.Make sure you have a plan.Background Information