GSG 11-22 CWU Code of Conduct
29/April/2022
Description
The CWU Rules, require a Code of Conduct policy for members. The National Executive Council conducted a review of the existing policy and decided to make a number of changes. A copy of the revised policy is attached.
While we have summarised below the changes to the policy, the overriding principle is the CWU strong desire to foster an inclusive and respectful culture. The Union will not tolerate representatives or members to be subjected to abusive or threatening behaviour. Where it becomes necessary to address a complaint, the application of the policy will only apply in instances of complaints which relate to the Union and Union activities.
- All Company Grievance and Dignity at Work policies must be utilised in full by members.
- The Code cannot be used to bypass agreed Union structures/procedures, or where matters are appropriate to be dealt with by the employers’ procedures. Such matters will be referred back to the complainant.
- As appropriate, every effort will be made by the CWU to deal with issues informally and Branches are also encouraged to deal with issues informally where possible.
- Members are entitled to be accompanied to meetings by another member of the Union.
- Branches should seek Union Headquarters advice and guidance in advance of conducting an investigation.
- The NEC will establish an Appeals Sub-Committee who will hear any appeals from members in line with the provisions of the policy.
- Complaints against Branch Officers or Union Officials must be in writing and signed by the member concerned.
- The Code cannot be utilised to resolve a difference of opinion or how cases should be managed.
A copy of the CWU Code of Conduct will be circulated to all members with the next issue of Connect magazine.
GSG 11-22 CWU Code of Conduct Attachment