Trade union affiliation
Join the fight for justice and equality for Deaf and Disabled people – in the workplace and beyond.
DPAC welcomes affiliations from trade union branches, committees and trades councils. By affiliating, you’re not only supporting our campaigns to defend social security and fight austerity, but strengthening the voice of Deaf and Disabled trade unionists across the movement.
Why should trade unions affiliate to DPAC?
The DPAC Trade Union Group was formed by Deaf and Disabled trade unionists to ensure that our rights – whether in or out of work – are central to DPAC’s campaigning. We also recognise and value the vital role that trade unions play in promoting equality and defending workers’ rights.
We believe the trade union movement has a key part to play in:
• Promoting the Social Model of Disability
• Defending the UN Convention on the Rights of Disabled People
• Challenging discrimination and scapegoating of Deaf and Disabled people
• Ensuring unions are leading the call for equality, dignity and opportunity
Social security is a trade union issue
Some may ask: what does the welfare state have to do with workers? But with poverty pay rife and over 1 in 5 workers now relying on Universal Credit, it’s clear that the line between in-work and out-of-work poverty is vanishing fast.
Insecure jobs, fire-and-rehire practices and cuts to the social safety net leave all workers vulnerable. A strong, fair social security system protects everyone – and it’s under sustained attack. That’s why trade unions must stand up for it, and for Deaf and Disabled workers most at risk.
A motion your union can pass
We’re inviting your union branch, committee or trades council to affiliate to DPAC by passing the model motion included in our Trade Union Affiliation Form.
Affiliation signals your commitment to:
• Stand with Deaf and Disabled people against austerity and government attacks
• Recognise the impact of cuts to benefits such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP) on both working and non-working Deaf and Disabled people
• Support the work of the DPAC Trade Union Group in ensuring Disabled voices are heard throughout the labour movement
Benefits of affiliation
Affiliating to DPAC means:
• You can send Disabled members to take part in DPACTU meetings and help shape our union-facing work
• You’ll be kept informed about DPAC campaigns, resources, and actions relevant to your members
• You’ll be helping to build a united front against ableism, austerity and inequality
How to affiliate
Simply complete the DPAC Trade Union Affiliation Form and pass the accompanying motion at your next branch or committee meeting. The suggested affiliation fee is:
• £50 per 100 members of your union branch
• £50 per committee or trades council
Together, we are stronger. Let’s build a movement together.
