The BDA Trade Union Representatives Training Programmes are four-day learning programmes structured to develop all the knowledge and skills a BDA Trade Union Rep will need. The programmes are delivered by TUC tutors and are accredited.
These programmes, developed in collaboration with the TUC, are not just for new representatives. We strongly encourage established trade union reps to attend and refresh their skills. To gain accredited recognition, all Reps must complete all four days of Stage 1 training. Best of all, this valuable Trade Union training is completely free to attend.
BDA Trade Union Reps, stage 1 training
About the training
Stage 1
The BDA Trade Union initial training course for Local BDA Trade Union Representatives will be delivered in-person or virtually across four days. Trade Union Representative Training is free to attend, travel expenses will be reimbursed, accommodation provided including meals and you will get paid release to attend by your employer.
This program has been developed in conjunction with the TUC Trade Union Education and is delivered by professional TUC tutors. It is essential that all representatives complete all four days of this training in order to achieve accredited recognition status. Established BDA Trade Union Representatives are also encouraged to attend to refresh their skills
Stage 2
The BDA Trade Union Representative Stage 2 training course for Local BDA Trade Union Representatives will be delivered in-person across four days. This course is to build upon the Stage 1 course and some of the subjects covered include:
- Dealing with Bullying and Harassment
- Reasonable adjustments
- Dealing with Stress
- The contract of employment
- Resisting contract amendments
- Industrial Action
- Rights to Information
- Employment Tribunals and the role of ACAS
This program has been developed in conjunction with the TUC Trade Union Education and is delivered by professional TUC tutors. It is essential that Representatives complete all four days of this training.
Any questions about the training, please contact the BDA Trade Union team.
Upcoming training
Stage 1
Stage 1 rep training courses will run on the following dates:
- Dates TBC - there will be two dates to choose from in 2025.
Stage 2
The next Stage 2 rep training courses will run on the following dates:
Expenses
Please bear in mind that all claims affect the running costs of the Association and influence the annual subscription rates. We ask members and staff to be as prudent and as cost effective as possible when travelling on BDA business.
It is important that claims are processed within a reasonable timescale so that costs incurred throughout the year can be allocated to budgets and we have up to date information on expenditure. For this reason we ask that claims be submitted as soon as is practically possible but, in any event, within the month following the month of the expenses being incurred eg: expenses incurred in June, should be received no later than the end of July.
The BDA financial year ends in February and all claims must be received by the end of February so that payment can be made within the same financial year.
Late claims will only be paid in exceptional circumstances and require the approval of the Honorary Treasurer.
Travel
The most economical means of transport should be used and to help reduce Carbon emissions we ask staff and members to use public transport wherever possible.
The mileage rate is 45p per mile, where use of public transport is not practical or available (e.g. would take a considerable amount of time).
Use of air travel should only be used if other means of transport are unavailable or impractical. Most air travel can be made with budget airlines and you are encouraged to book well in advance to take advantage of cheaper tickets.
Taxis will not normally be reimbursed unless are the only viable option. The BDA will not pay for short taxi journeys, such as to the office from the station or preferred Birmingham hotel unless agreed in advance.
In London, the underground is normally quicker and cost effective.
Members and staff can reclaim their expenses for travel booked from the BDA.
To claim back your expenses please complete and return the BDA Expenses Form to [email protected]. Please send your form in PDF format.
Important Information
BDA has found that many places are booked last minute, therefore bookings are left open as long as possible, whilst being mindful that delegates will be keen to finalise arrangements for attendance.
BDA does not recommend registrants making travel arrangements before the course has been officially confirmed as running and can accept no responsibility for any travel costs incurred in the event of cancellation.
Notes
All claims must be supported by Receipts where appropriate. VAT Receipts should be submitted wherever possible to enable the BDA to reclaim VAT.
All claims must be authorised by the Chairman of the relevant Committee or the relevant staff member and forwarded to the Accounts Department.