TUC Disabled Workers' Conference Report

Submitted by rmtlondon on 12 June, 2013 - 04:24

This report was written for the quarterly magazine Asperger's United by Caroline Henthorne who was a delegate to the TUC Disabled Workers' Conference

Report on the 2013 TUC Disability Conference Wednesday 22nd and Thursday 23rd May 2013

By Caroline Henthorne

Aren’t Unions for People with Jobs?

Yes I know most autistic people are unemployed, but you don’t have to have a job to be in a union. Unions are the voice of the workforce. That’s people who are working and those of us who would like a job if we could get one.

Update On RMT TUC Motion Regarding Sentencing Of Murderer Of Steven Simpson

Submitted by rmtlondon on 12 June, 2013 - 03:55

The Trades Union Congress Disability Conference carried an emergency motion submitted by RMT calling for a review of the sentence given to Jordan Sheard for the killing of Steven Simpson, on grounds that the attack should have been treated as disability and homophobic hate crime (as well as unacceptable comments from the judge).

Speaking Out about Autism at Work

Submitted by Janine on 9 June, 2013 - 13:52

This is the speech I gave at TUC Disabled Workers' Conference in proposing RMT's resolution on Autism in the Workplace.

Andrew Beck has Asperger syndrome, an autistic spectrum condition. He was a golf club greenkeeper for 13 years with no problems, until a new boss bullied, humiliated and assaulted him, and forced him out of his job. Andrew won £78k at Employment Tribunal

Adam O’Dee has autism and dyslexia. He got a job through Remploy as a hotel chef. His boss bullied him and paid him half the minimum wage. Adam won £40k+ at employment Tribunal.

Ways to help

There are several ways that you can assist the fund:

  • Organise a fundraising event.

  • Send a donation to the fund.

  • Display our poster asking for donations in your workplace.

  • Like our Facebook Page by clicking the button below, and then share it on your own timeline and other social media. -

Railways Inspector's Recommendations Following Review Into James Masango Case

Submitted by rmtlondon on 7 June, 2013 - 02:36

RMT General Secretary Bob Crow, wrote to the ORR following an incident in 2011 which resulted in the sacking, and subsequent reinstatement of James, due to the strong union response.The RMT complaint regarded firstly James’ alleged responsibility for the SPAD; and secondly, that James had been compelled to drive when unfit to do so. The letter below is the response.

You can read more about the case here.

The Letter

Dear Mr Crow

JAMES MASANGO