United Food & Commercial Workers Union
Local 1400

What Is A Shop Steward?

A Shop Steward is a crucial link to the structure of any union.  They can essentially help to protect member's rights, safety and health and even save their jobs. Stewards are often looked upon for advice and leadership in the workplace. 

A Steward is the front-line representation to their fellow union members and the main link between the member and the rest of the UFCW structure.  Good UFCW Stewardship means a better-informed membership.   Without the communication of the Stewards and Union Representatives with the membership, the best Collective Agreement would be worthless.

Stewards have a keen interest in helping others, listening, and have an enthusiasm for UFCW ideas and programmes. 

Good Shop Stewards are:

• Impartial, fair, objective, and professional;
• Friendly and easy to talk to;
• Enthusiastic about union work and able to help fellow members understand the structure of the UFCW;
• Courageous enough to tell members when they are wrong, and have the guts to stand up to the company;
• Someone who doesn't "pass the buck".

The process for becoming a Steward in your workplace is:

• Talk to your Union Representative;
• Sign up for a Shop Steward school which is periodically taught throughout the Province several times a year (your Rep may sign you up as well);
• Attend the 2-day school;
• Start helping others.

What should a Steward do?

• Speak for your co-workers;
• Provide leadership to your co-workers;
• Organize your workplace (strength in numbers);
• Keep members informed (policies, meetings, education courses);
• Keep bulletin boards fully posted with union news and updates;
• Get members out for meetings and elections (always show up yourself!)  At meetings, members find out and help decide where their dues go and conduct other business of the union.

Local 1400 has over 260 active Shop Stewards across Saskatchewan at the present time.