Being an Advance union rep at Santander UK is a bit like wearing two hats.  Sometimes at the same time, and sometimes while juggling them! On one hand, you’ve got your ’day job’ just like everyone else, maybe in a branch, customer interactions, or a head office team. On the other hand, you’re the go-to person when a colleague needs advice, support, or just someone to listen over a virtual cuppa. The day usually starts with a flurry of Teams messages or emails from members: “Can I ask a quick question?”

With your name and headshot out there, you become the voice and face of Advance, standing up for our pillars <insert pillars>. You quickly become the go-to person for everything from “Can I take this holiday?” to “I think I’ve been unfairly treated”. Sometimes, you feel like an agony aunt, but in a good way. People trust you, and that’s no small thing.

Mid-morning can involve attending a formal meeting with Senior Leadership in your Area, where you can be the informed voice of our members, raising agenda items for discussion and hearing important updates from the business. Thanks to the partnership agreement between Santander and Advance, these meetings are professional and constructive. It’s not about winning or losing – it’s about collaboration and making sure every voice is heard fairly.

Throughout the day, you might catch up with members via Teams, take part in union catch-ups, or lend a listening ear to someone who just needs to vent. Some conversations are quick fixes; others are more complex and require guidance, empathy, and sometimes tea and biscuits. (If you’re lucky) You’re not just there for problems either – reps help shape positive change, influence policy, and make sure people feel supported through all the changes of working life.

Despite the many challenges, being a rep is hugely rewarding. You get to help people when they need it most, and you see firsthand the difference it makes. It’s not always glamorous, but it’s meaningful, important, and yes, even fun at times. Because at the end of the day, being an Advance rep at Santander is all about people and that’s what makes it worthwhile.

(This article was written by a current Advance rep)

Want to know more about becoming a rep? Click here