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Transforming a Trade Union? An Assessment of the Introduction of an Organizing Initiative

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  • Jeremy Waddington
  • Allan Kerr

Abstract

In 1995 Unison implemented a National Recruitment Plan, and, in 1997, a National Organizing and Recruitment Strategy, with the objective of reversing the decline in union density in the public sector. This article traces the development of these initiatives and assesses their results. The article shows that there is limited involvement of lay representatives in the National Organizing and Recruitment Plan, but that there is a positive relationship between participation in union programmes intended to promote organizing and the performance of individual branches.

Suggested Citation

  • Jeremy Waddington & Allan Kerr, 2009. "Transforming a Trade Union? An Assessment of the Introduction of an Organizing Initiative," British Journal of Industrial Relations, London School of Economics, vol. 47(1), pages 27-54, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:brjirl:v:47:y:2009:i:1:p:27-54
    DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-8543.2008.00707.x
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Gerry Looker, 2019. "Union organising and Full‐time Officers: acquiescence and resistance," Industrial Relations Journal, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 50(5-6), pages 517-531, November.
    2. Pannini, Elisa, 2023. "Winning a battle against the odds: a cleaners’ campaign," LSE Research Online Documents on Economics 112569, London School of Economics and Political Science, LSE Library.
    3. Jack Fiorito & Irene Padavic & Philip S. DeOrtentiis, 2015. "Reconsidering Union Activism and Its Meaning," British Journal of Industrial Relations, London School of Economics, vol. 53(3), pages 556-579, September.

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