GMB Magazine GMB24 Centre Point Spring 2016 | Page 27

Visit GMB online at www.gmb-westmids.org.uk

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CONFERENCE

GMB members discuss equality
and the fight against domestic abuse

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irmingham and West Midlands
Region recently held its annual
Women’s Conference. In
attendance were members,
workplace organisers, GMB officers and
local MPs from across the Region.
The day included speakers from the
various different groups that make up GMB.
The conference heard from Sarah James,
who spoke about the amazing work the
BOSS (Birmingham Organised Sisters Society)
group has done throughout the last year,
including the White Ribbon Campaign.
The group has raised over £1,300 for Julia
House, a shelter for women who’ve suffered
domestic abuse.
A representative of Julia House joined the
conference, and thanked the group for their
much-needed support and donations. She

explained that most domestic abuse
sufferers leave their homes with just the
clothes on their backs, so the donation has
helped to clothe and feed these women.
Continued support is very much needed,
which is where we need your help. Any
donations of clothes, toys or toiletries are
more than welcome.
An inspirational speech was given by Jess
Phillips, Labour MP for Yardley, an equality
campaigner, who before she was elected
managed a charity supporting victims of
domestic and sexual violence. Jess has
dedicated her career to improving the lives
of some of the poorest people in society.
A big thank you goes to all who made the
day a success, as well as to those who took
part in experiencing what GMB has to offer
and how we can help you to help others.

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• Book Club • Young Members’ Networ
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• Equality
• LGBT • Disabled Members
Join our mailing list now! Contact GMB

on

@gmb.org.uk
0121 550 4888 or email: westmids

Helping
refugees
At Christmas, GMB members joined up
with the Halesowen Churches Together
Welcome Group to hold a meal for refugees
who have come to the Black Country.
They met 100 refugees at the United
Reformed Church, Halesowen, and a party
was held for the children, while parents
shared a meal with the group and GMB
members. GMB supported the party with
food, music and hampers for each family.
Regional Secretary Joe Morgan said:
“We were very happy to help the group,
who support refugees all year round.”
Patricia, a member of GMB’s women’s
group, said: “As a refugee myself,
I thought the event was amazing.”
If you’d like to join the Welcome Group
and help refugees, please contact Anne
West on 07962 123366.

www.gmb-westmids.org.uk 27

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