ORGANISING ON THE MEDWAY

25 RMT helpline 0800 376 3706 :: march/april 2025 :: RMTnews RMT activists in Kent took part in a two-day campaign on the High Speed One route stations and London terminals London Bridge, Cannon Street, Charing Cross and Victoria, to recruit new members and connect with current members. Newly elected regional council membership officer Paul Dennis joined up with Medway and District branch membership officer Dave Reid and regional council executive member, John Johnstone, NEC member Dan Gibbons, RMT regional council president Ivor Riddell and local Rep Amanda Butcher and Chiltern branch secretary Jon Lamb. The first day involved visiting High Speed One stations Ebbsfleet, Stratford and St Pancras as well as dropping into Unity House whilst around the corner. Ivor Riddell said that the group spoke to over 30 people, many already members about their issues and explained the process to get support from their reps. Such diverse issues as rostering, heating for barrier staff and emergency carers leave. “There was some resistance to joining the union, but we made good arguments and broke down some myths and lies about the union,” he said. Paul Dennis also said that there were visits to London Bridge, Cannon Street, Charing Cross and Victoria, focusing on cleaners and catching up with Southeastern Trains members and Network Rail staff. “There was a good reception, but management were out and about making sure that cleaner grades didn’t get a chance to chat with the union, but we did make inroads and signed a couple up and left others to think about. “This is just the beginning really; we plan to revisit next month and pick up on the conversations and start to chat to them about taking up rep positions and building local networks and member density. “There is nothing like boots on the ground to make things happen,” he said. ORGANISING ON THE MEDWAY Kent activists meet members and encourage others to sign up to protect their jobs TEAM: Amanda Butcher, Dave Reid, Paul Dennis and Dan Gibbons. TALKING: Engaging with rail workers