Unison Highland Local Government Branch

24/06/2026

📢 Calling All Pupil Support Assistants (PSAs) 📢

UNISON Highland Local Government Branch is looking to gather feedback from PSAs across Highland schools.

We are hearing concerns from members that workloads may be increasing while staffing levels and, in some cases, contracted hours are being reduced. We want to understand what is happening on the ground and how this is affecting staff and the support being provided to pupils.

Have you experienced:
🔹 An increase in workload or responsibilities?
🔹 A reduction in PSA hours within your school?
🔹 Fewer staff expected to support the same number of pupils?
🔹 Increased demands around personal care, medical support, behaviour support, or classroom duties?
🔹 Difficulties meeting pupils' needs due to staffing pressures?

If any of these issues are affecting you, we would like to hear about your experiences.

Please comment below, send the page a private message, or contact the branch directly. If you would prefer your comments to remain confidential, please let us know.

Gathering this information will help us build a clearer picture of the challenges facing PSAs across Highland and ensure members' voices are heard.

Your experiences matter, and your feedback will help inform the work of your union.

✊ UNISON Highland Local Government Branch

06/06/2026

We have some exciting news to share. The branch has been successful in a fundung bid to access a UNISON Area Organiser for the next 2 years.

The AO will work with our branch to help us manage the large geographical area Highland covers, allowing us to reach out to members in all areas of Highland.

For more info, click below.

Highland

02/06/2026

Supporting members from everywhere!

02/06/2026

Morag MacLeod, branch treasurer, & James Beatson, branch chair, attended Job Evaluation training recently.

They are keen to get started in supporting members where required.

23/05/2026

Remember to keep up to date with events, news plus much more via the Branch Website.

Highland

20/05/2026

Solidarity to our comrades in Unison West Dunbartonshire today who are taking strike action

13/05/2026

Get to know your branch by visiting our website

13/05/2026

Planning for Retirement Course

This course is open to all staff though those within 10 years of exercising pension options The aim of the course is to help staff achieve their retirement goals and plan for the lifestyle changes ahead.

The main topic's covered:
Identify lifestyle changes in retirement, there impact and explore options
Maximise the benefits of your State Pension
Understand the income options available from your pension and make the most of tax-free cash
Your inheritance options and planning.

Please follow the link to register for this course

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13/05/2026

This week is Mental Health Awareness Week. Did you know as a UNISON member you have access to There for You (UNISON Welfare).

Throughout life we are faced with emotional or financial challenges; UNISON Welfare is available free of charge offering a completely confidential advice and support service for our members and their dependents.

Members experiencing financial and emotional difficulties can contact our welfare charity, There for You, which provides a confidential advice and support service for members and their dependants.

12/05/2026

UNISON is the UK's largest public sector union with over 1.4 million members.

If you work for a public service organisation, such as the council, and need support with workplace issues, join UNISON. We’re here to help protect your rights, provide advice, and stand with you when it matters most.

Membership costs start from as little as £1.30 per month, based on income, with dedicated rates for students and apprentices.

We’re the UK’s largest union, with over 1.4 million members. Join today and you’ll receive our support – with membership costing less than you might think. Before you get to work, get essential cover.