British trade unions and the academics: The case of Unionlearn

Journal article


Mcllroy, John and Croucher, Richard. (2013). British trade unions and the academics: The case of Unionlearn. Capital and Class. 37(2), pp. 263 - 284. https://doi.org/10.1177/0309816813487134
AuthorsMcllroy, John and Croucher, Richard
Abstract

Unionlearn and union learning representatives were developed by the British TUC to match workers with education and training opportunities, strengthen the economy, foster market inclusion and facilitate social mobility. Their contribution to union revitalisation was emphasised. This article questions whether, with unions confronting global crisis, this is a necessary initiative. It stemmed from TUC failure to achieve policy goals, institutional needs, consequent acceptance of a lesser role, and the availability of state finance. Claims by academics that it provides influence over state policy and contributes to revitalisation remain inadequately evidenced. Union resurgence is not immanent. The way forward is through adversarial grassroots organising and socialist education, not through retooling capital, improving members’ marketability and partnership with a hostile state.

KeywordsUnions; training; organising; revitalisation; academics
Year2013
JournalCapital and Class
Journal citation37 (2), pp. 263 - 284
PublisherSage Publications Ltd.
ISSN0309-8168
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/10.1177/0309816813487134
Scopus EID2-s2.0-84887452316
Page range263 - 284
Publisher's version
File Access Level
Controlled
Place of publicationUnited Kingdom
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