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15.05.2026 / News /

UVW members build power at Know Your Rights Assembly

“The union is fundamental to achieving workers’ rights.”

Francesco Lombardo, Concierge and UVW member

Bosses rely on workers not knowing their rights. We’re changing that.

UVW members, workplace representatives and strike leaders came together at Casa UVW in May for a Know Your Rights Members Assembly, learning about recent changes to employment law and how workers can enforce their rights and organise for more. Some changes have taken place already, while others will be coming into effect during 2026 and 2027.

The session covered what has changed in employment rights, what workers are entitled to, how to enforce those rights and how to organise collectively for better pay and conditions.

Members also shared experiences from the front lines of workplace struggles. Francesco Lombardo, UVW member, strike leader and worker at West End Quays, spoke about his experience of winning a strike against outsourcing and the importance of collective organisation.

Daniel Gichia, a UVW member working at the LSE, highlighted the importance of staying informed about changes to employment law: “Knowing about changes in the law is very important. We need to be updated with what’s going on. It gives me knowledge about how to manoeuvre in my employment rights.“

The assembly was about more than learning the law. It was about bringing workers together, sharing knowledge and building the confidence and collective power to use those rights. As Daniel put it: “To be a UVW member is very emotional, because it’s like a family.”

This is what worker organising looks like.

More organising and training sessions are coming soon. Keep your eyes peeled for updates here >>

Take a look at what the workers’ assembly was like here 👇🏽

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