Heart Unions Week highlights the role of trade union support in podiatry
Heart Unions Week gives us an opportunity to reflect on the role trade unions play in supporting working people, including the specific support available to podiatrists through their professional union
What’s happened
Heart Unions Week, a national awareness week celebrating the contribution of trade unions, is taking place across the UK, focusing on how collective representation supports fair work, safe practice and positive working environments.
Within podiatry, the week has highlighted the work of the Royal College of Podiatry, which is the UK’s only dedicated trade union for the profession. Working in affiliation with the Trades Union Congress and the General Federation of Trade Unions, the College represents podiatrists across a wide range of employment settings, including the NHS, private practice and self-employment.
Alongside national activity, Heart Unions Week has been used to address common misconceptions about trade union support, including the idea that union involvement is limited to NHS employment or crisis situations. In practice, employment and professional support is available to members across sectors, covering areas such as contracts, reasonable adjustments, mediation and individual casework.
Why this matters to members
Employment conditions, workload pressures and access to support remain significant issues for many podiatrists. Trade union representation can play a role in supporting individuals to understand their rights, address workplace concerns and navigate complex employment situations.
Beyond individual case support, the College is involved in national negotiations and policy discussions that affect the profession more broadly, including NHS pay negotiations across the UK. Representation at this level aims to ensure that podiatry perspectives are included in wider workforce and health policy conversations.
Members and staff have also contributed to national trade union structures. Deputy General Secretary Martin Furlong has served on the TUC General Council, while other College representatives hold elected roles within national committees, helping to raise podiatry and healthcare issues at a national level.
Member perspectives
Several members have shared reflections on the value of trade union support. Helen Goulding, a College member, described the impact of representation during a difficult period, noting the role of trained union representatives in providing guidance and reassurance.
Similarly, Professional Support Officer, Katie Harwood, reflected on her experience moving from workplace representative to College staff member, highlighting the organisation’s focus on fairness, inclusion and member support.
What to be aware of
Heart Unions Week serves as a reminder of the breadth of trade union activity, from individual workplace support to national campaigning. Members interested in learning more about representation roles or accessing employment support are encouraged to explore available resources through the College by contacting employmentsupport@rcpod.org.uk