The importance of championing women workers across the union movement

In a guest blog, Chair of the Community Third Sector Committee, Chelsie Riley discusses the importance of women in leadership roles across the trade union movement.

People often ask me why I’m a Union Rep, on top of all my other commitments: my volunteering as a Leader with the Girl Guides, my job as a Social Impact Consultant at Business in the Community, living my life, and managing my health condition, endometriosis. Honestly, as with most things I do, I was driven by a desire to make a difference. A difference not just for myself, but for others too. There are countless reasons why someone might feel unheard, unseen, or unsupported — many of which I have personally experienced. That’s why, in learning to advocate for my own needs, I’ve also made it a priority to use my voice to stand up for others.

Through my role at work and position as a Community Branch Secretary, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside passionate individuals. I enjoy advocating for fair treatment, better working conditions, and inclusive policies. These experiences have made tangible improvements to the work lives of my colleagues and have taught me the power of collective action and representation at every level.

Trade unions were born from male-dominated industries, a legacy reflected in union leadership today. While women represent 42% of union members in ITUC-affiliated unions, over two-thirds of leadership positions are held by men — this has to change, and I want to drive that change forward. We need to ensure we are representing our workforces, our colleagues and society at large. By enriching the diversity of our representatives, unions can make sure we have diversity of thought. This allows us to continue to listen to different perspectives and understand the unique challenges people face.

Unions have long fought for justice and equality. As a natural extension of these values, is it not the role of the union to support, develop and promote women?

For me, it’s about ensuring fairness and equity across all protected characteristics. We can lift up those who might otherwise be left behind. I am not unique, as a woman whose experiences (both positive and negative) have shaped my perspective and strengthened my resolve. I’ve faced discrimination, I’ve been underestimated and overlooked, I’ve been paid less than a male counterpart, I’ve been subject to inappropriate comments more times than I can count, I’ve been sexually harassed – all these challenges are ones which women face every single day.

Unions like Community are a force for equity and empowerment, but that doesn’t happen by accident. I want to be a voice for women, to challenge the status quo, and to actively help create a culture where individuals thrive. Leadership opportunities should be accessible regardless of gender, age, race, sexuality, or any other personal characteristic, for that matter. I want to ensure that our union reflects the diversity and strength of its members.

Women deserve to feel physically and psychologically safe, confident to speak up, and lead with authenticity. Unfortunately, this is not the experience for most, with 53% of young women experiencing discrimination in the workplace, and for young women of ethnic minorities, this increases to 61%!

We need to be investing in leadership development programmes, offering mentorship, and actively challenging the biases, systems and policies that hold women back.

Our union is stronger when it reflects the voices and experiences of all its members. By championing women leaders, we’re not only building a more inclusive union—we’re shaping a more just and equitable future for everyone.

Head of Equalities, Jennifer Dean said:

At Community, championing women’s development isn’t just about representation, it’s about breaking down barriers, creating opportunities, and ensuring leadership is truly inclusive. We are committed to making sure women have the tools, support, and voice they need to step into leadership and drive change. Together, we are building a fairer, stronger future where women’s leadership is recognised, valued, and celebrated.

National Secretary for the Third Sector, David Weeks said:

Leadership should reflect the diversity of the membership. When women are in leadership, union policies are more likely to address issues that matter to women workers, such as maternity rights, equal pay and workplace harassment). Elevating women into leadership helps break systemic barriers, challenge male-dominated power structures, and create space for more equitable decision-making.

Women make up 75% of the third sector workforce (Agenda Consulting), but leadership still lags behind. That’s why having Chelsie as our committee chair is a powerful step toward building women leaders in our union.