Introduction: Women in the PSA

Women have always played an active part in the PSA, from its founding in 1899 through to today. They have had long and persistent fights to get recognition, rights and equity. Much has been achieved, much can still be achieved.

Women in the PSA currently make up more than half (around 54%) of our membership. This mirrors our representation in the public sector.

Women members are involved at all levels of the union from grassroots members to the Executive of the PSA which includes a female President (Sue Walsh) and a Vice President (Cheryl McGuire).

The PSA has a Women's Council, a Women's Unit, runs women's training and produces special women's publications to help you work to improve conditions for women in your workplace.

PSA women members have been instrumental over many years in running successful campaigns on issues like equal pay, maternity protection and harassment in the workplace.

There are many concerns still facing women at work including access to flexible work practices, balancing work and family and workplace discrimination. It is crucial that women members get active around these, and other industrial issues.

You can't do it alone!

Joining or creating a local network of women members can be a great place to start. This might be women from your local workplace or across your agency.

Many Workplace groups elect Women's Contact Officers who act as contact points for information - nominate to be a WCO for your workplace or contact the person who already is and work together.

You might also like to nominate as a delegate for your workplace. Delegates represent the PSA in the workplace and have a really important role in taking up local issues and communicating issues of concern to members.

The PSA also has organisers for all workplaces who will assist and support you in your union activities.

Get Involved! The PSA is only as strong as the collective action of our members and women members are only as strong as our collective voice.