12. Using leverage: how to approach employers
A charter has already been used successfully in several UNISON regions. In Scotland, branches helped develop a version of the charter for contracted care services, setting out clear standards on recruitment, pay, equality, and support.
In Salford, local campaigning led to the city’ s mayor signing a charter to improve protections for migrant care workers. The UNISON Yorkshire & Humberside region launched a similar tool in partnership with local authorities.
The charter can be used alongside member testimonies, pressure from community allies, and negotiation with commissioners to shift the balance of power towards migrant workers.
Final tips: using leverage well
Before taking action against an employer, always consider the potential risks to the member( s) involved. Direct pressure can lead to retaliation, so indirect routes are often safer and just as effective. Build relationships with commissioners, regulators, councillors, staff forum members, HR and other management, where they may be useful so that these personal connections can be called upon when advocating for members and / or changes. Keep good records of cases that can be used as evidence to support demands.
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